On September 10th and 11th, Kuwata Keisuke of Southern All Stars held a charity live at Miyagi Sekisui Heim Super Arena.

This was his first live in a year and a half, and also his first since he had surgery for esophageal cancer last August. He called out to his fans, "Everyone, were you okay? I had some things going on myself, but thanks to everyone's encouragement, I was able to come back."

Kuwata appeared on-stage amidst ringing of bells and loud cheers from the crowd. He bowed his head, and sang "Aobajou Koiuta", a hit song�by Miyagi native Sato Muneyuki.

While holding a guitar in his hand, he said, "Thanks to you,�I was able to welcome this day. It's been six months, I want to respectfully dedicate a moment of silence to those lives lost from the disaster," and became one with 8,000 people.

This live was put into effect after Kuwata visited the disaster-stricken areas in Miyagi on May 28th. The venue was always used for concerts and sports events, but after the earthquake, it has been used as a temporary morgue. Kuwata's live was the first event to be held in the venue since the remains of the victims were transferred on July 1st.

Kuwata got on his hands and knees and said, "Everyone, I've caused you to worry. At that time." Then declared, "Today's theme is 'a gathering to cheer up together'."

He turned his song, "OSAKA LADY BLUES", into a Miyagi version, adding local specialty goods and famous places into the song. Additionally, he made his way through the audience to the center stage to former pro wrestler Antonio Inoki's theme song. Then, his wife Hara Yuko appeared on the keyboard, and together sang three songs from Southern All Stars, including "Shiori no Theme"

Kuwata performed a total of 27 songs, consisting of a variety of his solo songs, as well as hits from Southern All Starts and KUWATA BAND. He wrapped up the show by saying, "This is a new start for me as well. I'll be back. Don't give up on anything, don't overdo yourself with anything." After the show, a fireworks display painted the night sky as 'a light of restoration'.

Check out pictures from the live below!

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Source + Photos: Sanspo