Shintaro Sakamoto, the Japanese musical visionary known for his eclectic soundscapes and vibrant live performances, is set to make his debut in Thailand at the Maho Rasop Festival 2024. A legendary figure in Japan’s music scene, from his days fronting the iconic Yura Yura Teikoku to his richly layered solo work, Sakamoto approaches this milestone performance with genuine excitement.
For fans attending his festival set, it’s clear: this is a performance not to be missed, blending genre-defying music with the emotional authenticity only Sakamoto can deliver. Cosmos team had the chance to chat with him via email about his upcoming show, and he’s just as excited as we are. Get to know him a bit better before we catch his performance together at Maho Rasop Festival!
This will be your debut show in Thailand at Maho Rasop Festival. What emotions or thoughts do you have about performing for a new audience in Bangkok?
I’ve always wanted to perform in Thailand, so I’m really excited. I can’t predict how the Thai audience will respond, and I’m looking forward to seeing their reactions.
Your musical journey has been diverse, from leading Yura Yura Teikoku (all-time my favorite) to your solo work. How has this evolution influenced your current sound?
Yura Yura Teikoku had a sound that could only be created with those specific members. My solo work, on the other hand, allowed me to explore new ideas and start creating the music I wanted, which was distinct from Yura Yura Teikoku. With my current band, we’ve been together for a long time, and I believe we’ve developed a sound that can only be achieved with these members.
Your latest album, Like a Fable, has been described as vibrant and optimistic. What inspired this direction, and how do you feel it resonates with today’s audience?
This album was created during the pandemic. I felt the world was blanketed in a sense of stagnation, so I sought to create music that could bring even a little bit of joy. Personally, overly cheerful and purely positive music tends to make me feel even gloomier, so it was challenging to create music that I could enjoy even in these tough times. For the sound, I drew inspiration from 50s-60s rockabilly, surf rock, and American pop—genres I’ve always loved.
Your music blends various genres, including funk, jazz, and world music. How do you approach integrating these diverse influences into a cohesive sound?
I listen to a variety of genres, but the songs I create revolve around my unique Japanese lyrics and melodies. I think this naturally brings out my personal style, even with different influences.
You’ve been praised for your immersive live performances. How do you plan to bring that experience to the Maho Rasop Festival stage?
We always aim to give 100% in every performance. It’ll be no different here.
You’ve been part of the Japanese music scene for a long time. From an outsider’s perspective, it seems like more Japanese bands are ready to go international. As a Japanese artist, what interesting changes have you noticed in this era?
With platforms like YouTube and Spotify, it’s now much easier to listen to music from around the world. In the past, people wouldn’t know about your work unless you released it in their country or toured there. Now, when we perform abroad, we see audiences singing along in Japanese, even if they don’t understand the language. That was unimaginable in the past. Similarly, Thai and other Asian music is now much easier to access in Japan. I believe music will continue to transcend borders even more in the future.
For fans attending Maho Rasop Festival who may be experiencing your music live for the first time, what do you hope they take away from your performance?
I don’t have any specific expectations. It would be amazing if they just enjoy it freely in their own way.
Are there any Thai artists or bands you’ve listened to whose sound really excites you?
Dao Bandon.
Anything you’d like to say to your Thai fans who are waiting to see you at Maho Rasop Festival?
I’m really looking forward to performing in Thailand. I’ll be happy if you enjoy the show!
Catch his incredible performance at Maho Rasop 2024, featuring over 30 bands from around the world ready to bring the fun to everyone. Grab your tickets now at: https://www.ticketmelon.com/mahorasop/mhrs2024
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