He was also an owner of "tribe", a record store in Shibuya, Tokyo, and led indie record label Hyde-Out Productions. He released two albums in Japan, Metaphorical Music in 2003 and Modal Soul in 2005. He was also a member of the production duo Urbanforest, an experimental collaboration with Nao Tokui (appearing on the Lady Brown 12").
In addition to Japanese artists like Shing02 and Minmi, he has collaborated with underground American hip-hop acts Cyne, Apani B-Fly, Five Deez, Substantial, Fat Jon and British rapper Funky DL.
He has also contributed music to the soundtrack of Samurai Champloo, an anime which blends a setting in feudal Japan with modern anachronisms, especially hip-hop music.
On March 17, 2010, it was announced on the Hyde-Out Productions website that Jun passed away on February 26, 2010 at the age of 36 after being involved in a serious car accident on the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway. He was promptly transported to the hospital, where attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. An English announcement was made on March 18 by friend and collaborator Shing02 on the Empire22 website:
Today, I have very somber news for the international hip hop community, especially fans of the independent hip hop scene, and those who have followed my career.
It has been announced that Jun Seba, aka Nujabes, Japanese hip hop producer extraordinaire, passed away late February. Official statement from the label (in Japanese) here:
http://hydeout.net/hydeout/2010/03/_hydeoutproductions.html
We deeply regret the loss of a unique talent and a close friend. Through his soulful music, Nujabes has touched so many people around the world, even beyond his dreams. He was a mysterious character to most as he avoided the public limelight, rarely conducted interviews, so only a few got to know the man behind the signature production. Yet it continued to amaze me how young listeners of all backgrounds learned of his enigmatic name, and expressed support for his music.
As I write now from Japan, I had been leaving him messages the past couple of weeks, trying to get in the studio together, so the news could not have come any more unexpected. Even last week, I passed by his house and called him thinking he was still home.
I met Nujabes around 2000 and as an upcoming MC, I was fortunate to work on tracks such as Battlecry, F.I.L.O, Luv(sic) parts 1, 2 and 3. We had been working on the next trilogy of Luv(sic) over the past year (which we're determined to see through). The last time we talked in January, Nujabes emailed me to wish Jeff Resurreccion, a 19-year old beatboxer who had just passed way from cancer, his heartfelt condolences.
While we continue to respect the privacy of his family, we will work to preserve his legacy, and pay tribute to the body of work, some unreleased, that he has left for us to enjoy. Jun Seba will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and fans worldwide.
in peace,
Shing02
City Lights (Ft. Pase Rock
Nujabes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And a lifetime climbing to the level
Contract with the devil, loopholed expiration date
On the side of good people always set the record straight
Round and round the piano keys meditate
Felt in the music, need it now, can't let it wait
It's not a secret, everything is all out and exposed
It's going down like the water in the river flows
Stuck inside the puzzle searching, still trying to get a hold
Forgotten souls got lost in the cold
Trying to get to freedom
Now they need 'em walking down to hope road
They said they hope so, but it was a no go
Front row stage show, well placed logo
Fancy lights and the cameras are on
But he don't care, he's just there to sing another sad love song
Fade to black, the soundtrack to another night
It's the music of the rain and the city lights
Feel no pain, it makes the whole city bright
Without the sparkle or hype it's just another night
Fade to black, the soundtrack to another night
It's the music of the rain and the city lights
Feel no pain, it makes the whole city bright
Without the sparkle or hype it's just another night
And they all knew what it was from the first glance
No excuses, should've planned in advance, man
Documented on ProTools or Tascam
Struggles & hustles of an ordinary black man
Spin a record with two week life span
Can't find a good girl, so we hug the mic stand
Not a lot of paper left in his right hand
Making enemies of folks he treated like fam
Stone cold, solid rock every point stop
What you lean on, soon as the pressure drops
Ghetto hot, know the ledge and you'll hear the shot
But he'll never stop 'til his name's known on every block
Spread my wings fly away to the night beat
He's wide awake while the rest of the city sleeps
In these gritty streets, dudes creep with plenty heat
Pay it no mind and we grind losing plenty sleep
Yo, yo
Some play for keeps while you laid asleep
In the dark your worst nightmare waits for he
Anything discern, no dawn or despair
Air's crisp and calm, I think a storm is near
And I'm watching lightning dance across the skyline
Usually miss it, rarely find time
To bask in blackness, hint of line shine
But in a jazz pub chilling, sippin' with fine wine
Hypnotize by the strum of the upright
Feel like lost souls got their eyes on me some nights
So keep my eyes wide and move cautious
Slip and find yourself in a brand new coffin
By morning, now you're the one with the night breed
You should've known better if you're anything like me
But the city lights will seduce you
Daywalkers beware if it's not what you're used to
The lyrics of "City Lights" by Nujabes, Pase Rock, and Substantial touch on themes of struggle, love, and the complexities of urban life. The verses paint a picture of someone who has faced trouble and seeks love and redemption, but is constantly trapped in a cycle of obstacles. The metaphor of climbing to a higher level and making a deal with the devil represents the challenges one faces in order to find success and happiness.
The lyrics also touch on the idea of exposing oneself and being vulnerable. The line "It's not a secret, everything is all out and exposed" suggests that the singer is honest and transparent, not hiding anything. However, despite this openness, they still find themselves stuck in a puzzle, searching for a solution or some form of liberation.
The chorus emphasizes the contrast between the dark and lonely nights and the vibrant city lights. The music of the rain and the glow of the city lights create an atmosphere that brings both pain and beauty. The singer finds solace in the city, but also acknowledges that without the glitz and hype, it's just another night.
Overall, "City Lights" explores the struggles, sacrifices, and self-reflection that come with living in an urban environment. It delves into the complexities of love, solitude, and the constant pursuit of self-improvement.
Line by Line Meaning
Always in trouble, need love on the double spent cake
Constantly facing difficulties and needing instant love to replenish what has been exhausted.
And a lifetime climbing to the level
Striving and working hard throughout one's life to reach a certain standard or goal.
Contract with the devil, loopholed expiration date
Having made a deal with a sinister force but finding a way to extend the agreed-upon deadline.
On the side of good people always set the record straight
Taking the side of righteous individuals and ensuring that the truth is always known.
Round and round the piano keys meditate
Finding solace and peace in the repetition and harmony of playing the piano keys.
Felt in the music, need it now, can't let it wait
Experiencing a deep connection with the music, craving it intensely, and feeling an urgency to indulge in it immediately.
It's not a secret, everything is all out and exposed
There are no hidden or undisclosed truths, everything is transparent and revealed.
It's going down like the water in the river flows
Events are unfolding naturally and effortlessly, similar to how water flows downstream in a river.
That's how it goes, another day another story told
This is the typical pattern, with each new day bringing another narrative or experience.
Stuck inside the puzzle searching, still trying to get a hold
Feeling trapped and attempting to solve the enigmatic puzzle of life while seeking a sense of control.
Forgotten souls got lost in the cold
Those who have been neglected and overlooked have been left stranded and abandoned in the harshness of life.
Trying to get to freedom
Making relentless efforts to attain liberation and emancipation from oppressive circumstances.
Now they need 'em walking down to hope road
Currently, these individuals desperately require support and guidance to find their way towards a path of optimism and possibility.
They said they hope so, but it was a no go
Despite expressing optimism, their aspirations were ultimately dashed, leading to disappointment.
Front row stage show, well placed logo
Being in the forefront of a theatrical performance, accompanied by prominent branding and representation.
Fancy lights and the cameras are on
Experiencing the glamour and attention that comes with bright lights and the presence of cameras.
But he don't care, he's just there to sing another sad love song
Being indifferent to the external spectacle and solely focused on performing heartfelt, melancholic songs.
Fade to black, the soundtrack to another night
Transitioning into darkness, symbolizing the beginning of another nighttime period.
It's the music of the rain and the city lights
The accompanying melody is provided by the rain and the illuminating city lights.
Feel no pain, it makes the whole city bright
Experiencing a sense of euphoria and joy, which radiates throughout the entire city.
Without the sparkle or hype it's just another night
Without the added excitement or buzz, it becomes an ordinary night like any other.
And they all knew what it was from the first glance
Everyone immediately recognized and understood the situation without needing further explanation.
No excuses, should've planned in advance, man
There are no justifications; proper preparation and foresight should have been employed.
Documented on ProTools or Tascam
The struggles and hardships endured by an average black man have been recorded using tools like ProTools or Tascam.
Struggles & hustles of an ordinary black man
The challenges and relentless efforts faced by a regular black individual in their everyday life.
Spin a record with two week life span
Playing a vinyl record that only remains relevant and popular for a short period of time.
Can't find a good girl, so we hug the mic stand
Being unable to find a suitable partner, the individual finds solace and comfort in embracing the microphone stand.
Not a lot of paper left in his right hand
Having limited financial resources remaining, almost depleted, in the right hand.
Making enemies of folks he treated like fam
Unintentionally creating adversaries among individuals he previously considered as family through his actions.
Stone cold, solid rock every point stop
Displaying an unyielding and resilient nature, like an immovable rock, causing any opposing arguments or criticisms to cease.
What you lean on, soon as the pressure drops
The support or foundation one relies upon immediately crumbles at the slightest decrease in pressure or adversity.
Ghetto hot, know the ledge and you'll hear the shot
Being in a volatile and dangerous environment, being aware and knowledgeable will help identify imminent danger.
But he'll never stop 'til his name's known on every block
Persisting and pursuing his aspirations relentlessly until his reputation and name become familiar on every street corner.
Spread my wings fly away to the night beat
Escaping from the mundane and embracing the rhythm and essence of the nighttime atmosphere.
He's wide awake while the rest of the city sleeps
Remaining alert and active while the majority of the city's inhabitants are in a state of slumber.
In these gritty streets, dudes creep with plenty heat
Within these rough and dangerous streets, individuals move cautiously, armed and ready for potential conflict.
Pay it no mind and we grind losing plenty sleep
Ignoring the fatigue and fatigue-inducing grind, continuing to work tirelessly, leading to a significant lack of sleep.
Some play for keeps while you laid asleep
Certain individuals engage in situations where the stakes are high, risking everything, while others remain unaware in their sleep.
In the dark your worst nightmare waits for he
Within the darkness, one's greatest fears and anxieties materialize, waiting for their arrival.
Anything discern, no dawn or despair
Unable to distinguish or perceive any signs of hope or distress.
Air's crisp and calm, I think a storm is near
Although the air is currently tranquil and serene, there is an impending storm approaching.
And I'm watching lightning dance across the skyline
Observing the mesmerizing display of lightning moving gracefully across the horizon.
Usually miss it, rarely find time
Typically failing to notice or appreciate these moments, seldom prioritizing the time to witness such beauty.
To bask in blackness, hint of line shine
Taking pleasure in the darkness, where there is a subtle glimmer of light present.
But in a jazz pub chilling, sippin' with fine wine
However, currently relaxed and unwinding in a jazz bar, enjoying the company of others while indulging in quality wine.
Hypnotize by the strum of the upright
Becoming entranced and captivated by the soothing sounds produced by the strumming of an upright bass.
Feel like lost souls got their eyes on me some nights
Experiencing a sensation where forsaken souls seem to be silently watching and observing one during certain evenings.
So keep my eyes wide and move cautious
Maintaining a vigilant and alert state, proceeding with care and wariness.
Slip and find yourself in a brand new coffin
Making a single misstep or mistake could result in finding oneself in an unfortunate and premature demise.
By morning, now you're the one with the night breed
As morning arrives, one becomes the embodiment of the dark and mysterious creatures that inhabit the night.
You should've known better if you're anything like me
An admonishment, suggesting that if one shares similar qualities or experiences, they should have been more aware and cautious.
But the city lights will seduce you
The allure and enchantment of the city lights can easily captivate and entice an individual.
Daywalkers beware if it's not what you're used to
A word of caution to those unaccustomed to the city's vibrant and bustling environment.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Jun Seba
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Humphking
This song drowns my sorrows in happiness, even though I know ill probably never hear anything this deep again.
ds udawat
C'mon man this is gold.
Rip sebasan
TheFuckOffMe
i finally found this song for two yearslooking for it
Ozwi
Nujabes CYNE Substantial are the best
Richard
🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿
Luther De Gladstone
Relaxing yes ?
Manuel O
🥀🥀🥀
Drew Treak
Uffff
NateDog54323
fun to bboy to