music
March 2, 2026
‘Do what you really want to do while you’re still alive’: Masayoshi Takanaka, the Japanese guitar hero surfing a second wave in his 70s
Playing a surfboard-shaped axe, Takanaka was a stadium-level artist at home but little known in the west – until YouTube brought him a huge new audience
TL;DR
- Masayoshi Takanaka, a 72-year-old Japanese guitarist, is experiencing a significant career resurgence and performing sold-out shows globally.
- His music gained international popularity through YouTube algorithms recommending 70s and 80s Japanese jazz and pop to Western audiences.
- Takanaka was a stadium-level artist in Japan, known for his unique style and collaborations, but remained largely unknown in the West until recent years.
- A fan-driven Instagram page and reissues of his music have contributed to the revival of interest in retro Japanese city pop.
- His upcoming UK shows were upgraded due to high demand, and he is embarking on his first world tour.
- Takanaka previously toured the UK in the 70s with Sadistic Mika Band but hadn't returned for 50 years.
- His music from the 70s and 80s, characterized by 'good vibes' and reflecting Japan's economic boom, is now widely appreciated.
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