Let's Dance Raw

Shintaro Sakamoto's 'Let's Dance Raw' is a vibrant and introspective exploration of life's illusions and the raw, unfiltered joy of living in the moment. The song opens with a candid acknowledgment of the performative nature of life, suggesting that everyone is aware of the charade but chooses to engage in it anyway. Sakamoto encourages listeners to focus on enjoyable conversations and experiences, rather than dwelling on the superficiality of existence. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, 'どうせこんなのちゃばんだ なんてくちにしちゃだめだ' (Don't say it's just a farce), urging a shift in perspective towards positivity and genuine human connection.

The recurring theme of dancing and music as a metaphor for life is central to the song. Sakamoto sings about dancing with 'raw beats' and 'raw steps,' emphasizing the importance of authenticity and spontaneity. The lyrics, 'なまのこんがでおどろう なまのすてっぷをきざもう' (Let's dance with raw beats, let's carve raw steps), highlight the idea of embracing life's imperfections and finding joy in the present moment. This rawness is not just about physical movement but also about emotional and spiritual engagement, suggesting a deeper connection with oneself and others.

Sakamoto also touches on the transient nature of life and the importance of living earnestly. He reflects on how people in the past would fall in love suddenly in places where music played, indicating a time when emotions were more immediate and sincere. The lyrics, 'むかしのにんげんはきっと おんがくのかかるばしょで いきなりこいとかした' (People in the past surely fell in love suddenly in places where music played), evoke a sense of nostalgia for a more genuine era. By urging listeners to dance and sing 'raw,' Sakamoto is advocating for a return to this earnestness, where life is lived fully and authentically, despite its inherent illusions.

The song's blend of introspection and celebration creates a compelling narrative that resonates with the listener, encouraging a balance between acknowledging life's fleeting nature and embracing its raw, unfiltered moments of joy.