Kenji Otsuki Releases First Poetry Collection in 23 Years for 60th Birthday
The Kinniku Shojo-tai frontman celebrates his milestone birthday with a self-selected poetry collection spanning over two decades of his work.

Kenji Otsuki, the iconic vocalist of legendary Japanese rock bands Kinniku Shojo-tai and Tokusatsu, will release his first poetry collection in nearly 23 years on April 17th. The book, titled "Gen to So 03-25: Otsuki Kenji Jisen Shishu" (Illusion and Imagination 03-25: Kenji Otsuki Self-Selected Poetry Collection), marks a special milestone as the artist celebrates his 60th birthday.
This poetry collection represents Otsuki's return to literary expression after more than two decades away from publishing verse. The title references the years 2003-2025, suggesting the work spans a significant period of the artist's creative output. The collection will also feature essays where Otsuki reflects on the past 20 years of his career and life.
For international fans, Otsuki is best known as the charismatic frontman of Kinniku Shojo-tai (Muscle Girl Band), one of Japan's most influential alternative rock acts since the late 1980s. The band gained cult status for their theatrical performances and Otsuki's distinctive vocal style and eccentric stage presence. His other project, Tokusatsu, takes its name from the Japanese term for special effects entertainment like kaiju and superhero shows.
This poetry collection offers fans a more introspective side of an artist known primarily for his energetic rock performances. Given Otsuki's reputation for clever wordplay and cultural commentary in his song lyrics, this literary work promises to give readers deeper insight into the mind behind some of Japan's most memorable alternative rock anthems.
