Hibari Misora (美空ひばり) was one of Japan's most revered and enduring singing sensations, often hailed as the "Queen of Japanese Pop" during a career that spanned over four decades. Born Kazue Kato on May 29, 1937, in Yokohama, she adopted her stage name Hibari Misora, which poetically means "lark in the beautiful sky." Misora's tremendous vocal talent became apparent at a young age, and she catapulted to stardom as a child actress and singer. Her style transcended genres, delving into traditional enka, pop, and jazz, leaving an indelible mark on post-war Japanese culture.
Despite passing away at the peak of her fame on June 24, 1989, Misora's legacy has continued to flourish. Her voice, preserved through countless recordings, concerts, and films, still resonates with fans old and new. Recently, technology has regenerated Misora's presence in the music scene, with artificial intelligence being used to produce posthumous recordings such as "あれから" (Are kara), demonstrating her timeless appeal and enduring influence in the Japanese music industry. Her extensive discography, including the latest releases incorporating her performances with symphonic arrangements in "美空ひばり Symphonic Works 〜不死鳥再び," solidifies her legendary status in the pantheon of music greats in Japan.
Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the artists you love!
Get Started