MIYAVI, also known as the "Samurai Guitarist," is a seminal figure in the Japanese music scene, known for his distinctive style of playing the guitar with a slap technique that mimics the sounds of traditional Japanese drums. Born Takamasa Ishihara in Osaka, Japan, on September 14, 1981, MIYAVI began his career in music in the late 1990s. He initially gained fame as the guitarist for the visual kei rock band Dué le Quartz before embarking on a successful solo career after the band disbanded in 2002. Over the years, MIYAVI has evolved his sound, incorporating a wide range of genres from rock and pop to electronic and hip hop, all while maintaining his unique guitar work as the centerpiece.

Aside from his musical endeavors, MIYAVI has also made a name for himself as an actor, most notably appearing in Angelina Jolie's 2014 film "Unbroken." His influence has extended beyond music and cinema; he is an active philanthropist and was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), using his platform to raise awareness for refugees around the world. MIYAVI's recent releases, such as "Running In My Head," "Broken Fantasy / Tragedy of Us," and "MIYAVIVERSE - Anima -," showcase his continued innovation and commitment to pushing the boundaries of his artistry. His dynamic career trajectory and contributions to both music and humanitarian causes have solidified his standing as an influential figure in the global entertainment industry.

Genres

Visual Kei

Related Artists

Linkin Park

Red Hot Chili Peppers

Deftones

System Of A Down

Foo Fighters

Korn

Three Days Grace

Rise Against

ONE OK ROCK

Breaking Benjamin

SEKAI NO OWARI

Stone Sour

Latest Release

The Beauty of the Broken

MIYAVI

Single - Released September 16, 2024