Masayoshi Takanaka is an acclaimed Japanese guitarist known for his virtuosic playing style and vibrant, joyous music that blends elements of jazz fusion, samba, blues, and funk. Born on March 27, 1953, in Tokyo, Japan, Takanaka's career has spanned over four decades, during which he established himself as a significant figure in Japan's music scene. His passion for the guitar blossomed during his teenage years, and his professional music journey took off when he joined the jazz-fusion band The Sadistic Mika Band in the early 1970s.

Takanaka launched his solo career in the latter half of the '70s after The Sadistic Mika Band's international stint, releasing his first album, "Seychelles", in 1976. Over the years, his distinctive approach to the instrument and his infectious stage presence won him a loyal fan base. His work is characterized by an impressive blend of technical proficiency and rhythmic expressiveness, often accented with tropical themes and a feel-good atmosphere. Among his most recent releases are the anthologies "TAKANAKA ALL TIME SUPER BEST～SELECTION” and "TAKANAKA ALL TIME SUPER BEST," which celebrate his enduring impact on the music industry. Albums like "FINGER DANCIN’," recorded live as "THE MAN WITH THE GUITAR -recorded at LIVETERIA-," and others, such as "オン・ギター," "夏・全・開," "CAN I SING?," "SAUDADE," and "OCEAN BREEZE," continue to showcase his mastery over his instrument and his commitment to evolving his sound while maintaining the signature Takanaka flair that has made him an iconic figure in contemporary guitar music.

Genres

Classic Japanese Jazz

Related Artists

CASIOPEA

T-SQUARE

Ryuichi Sakamoto

Anri

Haruomi Hosono

Al Di Meola

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

BUMP OF CHICKEN

George Benson

Yumi Matsutoya

Akina Nakamori

ELLEGARDEN

Latest Release

TAKANAKA ALL TIME SUPER BEST～SELECTION

Masayoshi Takanaka

Album - 15 Tracks - Released January 12, 2022