Iruka is a cherished Japanese singer-songwriter known for her melodious voice and poignant lyrics that resonate deeply with a wide range of audiences. Born in 1952 as Shinobu Nakayama, she adopted the stage name "Iruka," which means dolphin in Japanese, symbolizing peace and freedom – themes often reflected in her music. She rose to prominence in the 1970s with a gentle, folk-inspired style and hit songs like "Nagori Yuki" which has left an indelible mark on Japanese music culture.

Over the years, Iruka has continued to release a steady stream of albums and singles that showcase her talent for crafting songs that bridge the traditional and contemporary, and her commitment to environmental and social issues. Her archival series, including volumes like "イルカ アーカイブVol.8" and "心の友へ," reveal a rich repertoire spanning several decades and underscore her enduring appeal. Iruka's music isn't just a collection of notes and lyrics; it's a tapestry of stories that captures the ebb and flow of human emotions, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of introspection and connection. Her recent works, such as "うたのこども" and "惑星日誌～今、伝えたいこと～," continues this tradition, signaling her ceaseless evolution as an artist while staying true to the heartfelt sincerity that has long defined her career.

Genres

Japanese Folk

Related Artists

Yumi Matsutoya

Anri

Akina Nakamori

Seiko Matsuda

Yosui Inoue

Kenshi Yonezu

Aimyon

Ryuichi Sakamoto

Akiko Yano

Yumi Arai

Mariya Takeuchi

AKB48

Latest Release

イルカ アーカイブVol.8 「JULIA」「LOOP CHILD」「Heart Land」

Iruka

Album - 36 Tracks - Released August 23, 2023