Welcome My Friend

Okamoto's song 'Welcome My Friend' is a vibrant celebration of individuality and the power of unity. The repetitive chorus, 'Everybody wanna do what they wanna wanna do,' underscores a universal desire for personal freedom and self-expression. This sentiment is further explored in the verses, where the lyrics reflect on the challenges and changes one faces while staying true to oneself. The song acknowledges that while everyone has their unique path, these paths often intersect, leading to meaningful connections and collaborations.

The lyrics delve into the idea that life is a journey filled with obstacles and transformations. The lines '途中で絶対いろんなもんに ぶつかり続けて曲がっていく' (You will definitely keep bumping into various things and keep bending) suggest that these encounters shape our individuality. The song highlights the beauty of these 'weird bends' in our paths, as they can align with others' unique journeys, creating something better together. This theme is encapsulated in the lines '俺の変な曲がり方 お前の変な曲がり方 妙になんか噛み合って Make things a little better' (My weird bend, your weird bend, somehow they mesh and make things a little better).

'Welcome My Friend' also touches on the bittersweet nature of farewells and the deep understanding that can develop between people over time. The lyrics '俺はある時知った別れは 出会うことよりもずっとハードだ' (I learned that parting is much harder than meeting) convey the emotional weight of goodbyes. However, the song ultimately emphasizes the importance of shared dreams and mutual support. The invitation to '乗っかんないかい' (join our dream) and the repeated call to 'Welcome my friend' reinforce the idea that collective effort and belief can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

The song's upbeat and welcoming tone, combined with its introspective lyrics, creates a powerful message about the value of friendship, collaboration, and staying true to oneself. Okamoto's blend of rock and funk elements adds an energetic backdrop to these themes, making 'Welcome My Friend' both a thought-provoking and uplifting anthem.