Pathetic Facts

Japanese musicians born in 1953

Here are 26 famous musicians from Japan were born in 1953:

Keiko Han

Keiko Han (April 5, 1953 Shinbashi, Minato, Tokyo-) a.k.a. Han, Keiko or Han Keiko is a Japanese voice actor, actor and astrologer. She has one child, Megumi Han.

Keiko Han's career in voice acting began in 1974, when she started providing the voice of Lalah Sune in the anime series "Mobile Suit Gundam." She gained further popularity for her role as Luna in the "Sailor Moon" series. Throughout her career, she has lent her voice to countless characters in various anime, video games and dramas.

Aside from her work as a voice actor, Keiko Han also enjoys a successful career in acting. She has appeared in several films and television dramas throughout her career, beginning in 1971 with the film "Kigeki: Ekimae danchi." Han has also worked as an astrologer, occasionally publishing articles and appearing on television programs to share her knowledge of astrology.

In addition to her successful career, Keiko Han is the mother of fellow voice actor, Megumi Han. The mother-daughter duo has appeared together in several anime productions, including "Naruto Shippuden" and "Dragon Ball Super."

Keiko Han is regarded as one of the most prolific voice actors in Japan, having voiced over 300 characters in various anime and video game productions. Some of her notable anime roles include as Athena in "Saint Seiya," as Miyuki Kashima in "Touch," as Tenshinhan in "Dragon Ball," and as Muginami in "Lagrange: The Flower of Rin-ne." In video games, she lent her voice to popular characters such as Athena and Kula Diamond in "The King of Fighters" series and as Queen Clarisse in "Valkyrie Profile: Silmeria."

Aside from her voice acting and acting careers, Keiko Han is an accomplished author. She has published several books on astrology, including "Keiko Han no Astrology Lesson" and "Kimi to Hikari to Koozana." She has also written a book about her personal experiences called "Kanojo ga Ippiki Haitte Kitara Watashi wa Mada Shijin Janai."

Throughout her career, Keiko Han has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the entertainment industry. In 2009, she was awarded the Best Supporting Actress award at the 3rd Seiyu Awards for her work as Soyokaze Hoshino in the anime series "Yojo Senki." She was also recognized with the Kinema Junpo Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1995 for her role in the film "Hana Yori Dango."

Aside from her successful career in voice acting, acting and astrology, Keiko Han is also actively involved in various charitable and humanitarian organizations. She has been a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF Japan since 1998 and has traveled to various countries to promote child rights and education. In 2011, she established the Keiko Han Charity Foundation to support orphaned children in Japan and overseas.

In her personal life, Keiko Han has been married to fellow voice actor Noriko Hidaka since 1985. They have worked together in several anime productions, including "Touch" and "Ranma ½". In her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga and playing the guitar.

Keiko Han's contributions to the entertainment industry and her dedication to humanitarian causes have earned her a respected status both in Japan and internationally. Her career and legacy in the industry continue to inspire many aspiring actors and voice actors.

Keiko Han's early life was affected by her father's death during her childhood. Her mother, who was a voice actress, encouraged her to pursue a career in entertainment. She attended the Nihon University College of Art and majored in acting. After graduating, she joined the Haiyuza Theatre Company and appeared in numerous stage productions.

In addition to her acting and voice acting work, Keiko Han is also a singer. She has released several albums throughout her career, including "Mystery" and "Divine Wind."

Keiko Han's involvement with UNICEF has led her to travel to various countries in Asia and Africa to promote vaccination, maternal and child health, and education. She is also a member of the Japan Committee for UNICEF and has been actively involved in disaster relief efforts in Japan.

Despite her success and accomplishments, Keiko Han remains humble and grounded. She has stated in interviews that she considers herself to be just an ordinary person who happens to work in the entertainment industry.

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Tōru Furuya

Tōru Furuya (July 31, 1953 Isogo-ku, Yokohama-) also known as Furuya Toru, Furuya Tooru, Furuya Tohru, Toru Furuya, Furuya, Toru, Tôru Furuya, Sōgetsu Noboru, Noboru Sōgetsu or Tohru Furuya is a Japanese voice actor, actor, musician and narrator.

Discography: .

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Takashi Yoshimatsu

Takashi Yoshimatsu (March 18, 1953 Tokyo-) also known as 吉松隆, よしまつたかし, よしまつたかし, 吉松隆, Yoshimatsu Takashi or Yoshimatsu, Takashi is a Japanese film score composer.

His albums include Pleiades Dances (feat. piano: Kyoko Tabe), Symphony No. 5, Op. 87 / Prelude to the Celebration of Birds / Atom Hearts Club Suite No. 2, Op. 79a for String Orchestra (BBC Philharmonic feat. conductor: Sachio Fujioka), Piano Concerto "Memo Flora", Op. 67 (Manchester Camerata feat. conductor: Sachio Fujioka, piano: Kyoko Tabe), Symphony No.3, op.75 / Saxophone Concerto, op.59 ''Cyber-bird'' (BBC Philharmonic feat. conductor: Sachio Fujioka, saxophone: Nobuya Sugawa), Symphony No. 4, Op. 82 / Trombone Concerto "Orion Machine" Op. 55 / Atom Hearts Club Suite No. 1, Op. 70b for String Orchestra (BBC Philharmonic feat. conductor: Sachio Fujioka trombone: Ian Bousfield) and Kamui-Chikap Symphony / Ode to Birds and Rainbow.

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Tatsuro Yamashita

Tatsuro Yamashita (February 4, 1953 Ikebukuro-) otherwise known as Yamashita Tatsuro, Tats Yamashita, 山下達郎 or やましたたつろう is a Japanese singer, record producer and singer-songwriter.

His albums: Artisan, COZY, Boku no Naka no Shounen, For You, Best Pack Yamashita, Tatsuro II 1979-1982, Christmas Eve, Big Wave, Ride on Time, Melodies and Rarities. His related genres: Funk, Pop music, Rock music, Rhythm and blues, Adult contemporary music and Kayōkyoku.

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Ken Matsudaira

Ken Matsudaira (November 28, 1953 Toyohashi-) also known as Sueshichi Suzuki, Matsudaira Ken, Matsudaira, Ken, Matsuken or Suzuki Sueshichi is a Japanese actor and singer.

His albums: and マツケンサンバ II Remix Tracks.

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Naoko Ken

Naoko Ken (July 7, 1953-) also known as Ken, Naoko, Naoko Asada, Asada Naoko, Naoko Noguchi or Noguchi Naoko is a Japanese actor and singer.

Her most important albums: , , , , , , , , and . Genres she performed include Blues, Enka, Novelty song, Adult contemporary music and Folk music.

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Masashi Ebara

Masashi Ebara (May 4, 1953 Yokohama-) also known as Ehara Masashi, Masashi Ehara or Ebara Masashi is a Japanese actor and voice actor.

He made his debut in 1980 as a voice actor, providing the voice for the character of Duke Gorgon in the anime series "Mobile Suit Gundam". Since then, he has lent his voice to a number of popular anime characters such as Kyosuke Munakata in "Kimagure Orange Road", Roger Smith in "The Big O", and Jet Black in "Cowboy Bebop". Ebara has also acted in live-action films and television dramas such as "The Yakuza's Law: Lynching!", "Zero Focus", and "Samurai Cat". In addition to his acting career, he is also known as a radio personality and a narrator for documentaries and commercials.

Ebara graduated from Yokohama City University, Faculty of Economics. He initially worked as a bank clerk before pursuing a career in acting. He is affiliated with Aoni Production, a talent agency that specializes in voice actors. Ebara is also an accomplished singer, having released several albums and singles throughout his career. He has won a number of awards for his voice acting work, including the "Best Supporting Actor in a TV Anime" award at the 9th Seiyu Awards for his role as Zapp Renfro in "Blood Blockade Battlefront". Outside of his entertainment career, Ebara is an avid golfer and enjoys fishing.

Ebara is known for his versatile voice, which suits both serious and comical roles. He has also provided the Japanese dub voice for notable Hollywood actors such as Samuel L. Jackson, Al Pacino, and Danny DeVito in various films. In addition, he has performed in numerous stage productions, including a Japanese adaptation of the musical "Chicago" in which he played the role of Billy Flynn. One of his most well-known roles in recent years is as the character Jigen Daisuke in the long-running anime series "Lupin III". Ebara is highly respected in the industry and has served as a mentor to many upcoming voice actors. He is known for his professionalism and dedication to his craft, often spending hours perfecting his performances. Despite his busy schedule, he is also involved in charitable work and has supported various causes over the years.

Ebara is considered to be one of the most prolific voice actors in Japan, having lent his voice to over 300 anime shows, films, and games throughout his career. Some of his other notable roles include Ryo Sanada in "Ronin Warriors", Batou in "Ghost in the Shell", and Naozumi Kamura in "Gravitation". He has also provided voiceover work for popular Japanese video games such as "Street Fighter" and "Metal Gear Solid". Ebara's wide range of abilities has earned him a loyal fan base both in Japan and around the world.

In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Ebara is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in a number of charitable activities, including volunteering at hospitals and donating to various causes. In 2011, he organized a charity event to raise funds for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake. The event featured performances by Ebara and his fellow voice actors, as well as auctions of autographed merchandise. The event raised over 10 million yen for relief efforts.

Ebara's contributions to the entertainment industry and his charitable work have earned him numerous accolades and honors over the years. In 2016, he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun for his achievements in the arts and culture. The award is one of Japan's highest honors and recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society.

Despite his many accomplishments, Ebara remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to work on new projects and inspire the next generation of voice actors in Japan.

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Kitaro

Kitaro (February 4, 1953 Toyohashi-) also known as 喜多郎, 高橋正則, Masanori Takahashi, Kitarō or Kitarô is a Japanese record producer, composer, musician, film score composer and music arranger.

His most recognized albums: Oasis, Silk Road, Silk Road, Volume 2, Full Moon Story, Silk Road, Volume 1 & 2, Millennia, Asia, In Person, Tenku and Toward the West. Genres he performed: Instrumental, Folk music, New-age music, Electronic music and Electronica.

Chosei Funahara

Chosei Funahara (December 10, 1953 Hyōgo Prefecture-) also known as Osao Chosei Funahara is a Japanese film producer, actor, film director, film editor, screenwriter and musician.

He graduated from the Osaka College of Art in 1976 and later started his career in the film industry as an assistant director. He eventually moved on to become a producer and has produced notable Japanese films such as "The Eel" (1997), which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, and "Nobody Knows" (2004), which was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes. As a director, he has worked on films such as "Two-A-Day Jjigae" (1988) and "Owl" (1990). Funahara has also acted in several films, such as "The Real Thing" (1987) and "Dreams" (1990), directed by Akira Kurosawa. In addition to his work in film, Funahara has also released several albums as a musician.

He is known for his unique style of music, which incorporates elements of traditional Japanese music and folk music with modern rock and pop. Funahara's musical prowess is evident in his film scores, as he often composes and performs his own music for his films. His most recent album, "Kokyu," was released in 2018 and features collaborations with other Japanese musicians. In addition to his work in the arts, Funahara is also known for his advocacy for mental health awareness. He has spoken publicly about his own struggles with depression and anxiety, and has encouraged others to seek help when needed. Funahara's contributions to Japanese cinema and music have earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, which he received in 2019 for his cultural contributions.

Funahara's career in the film industry spans over several decades, during which he has established himself as a versatile and multi-talented artist. He has a reputation for working collaboratively and creating a supportive environment for actors and crew members alike. His films often deal with themes of identity, personal struggle, and the relationship between humans and their environment.

Apart from his successful career in film and music, Funahara is also known for his philanthropic work. He actively supports a number of charities and organizations that promote social causes such as mental health awareness, environmental conservation, and women's rights. In 2011, he established the Chosei Funahara Scholarship for young artists to help fund their education and support their creative pursuits.

Funahara's impact on the Japanese arts and culture scene is widely recognized, and he continues to be an influential figure in the industry today. His creative vision and dedication to promoting social causes have made him a beloved and respected figure among fans and colleagues alike.

Funahara has also been recognized for his international contributions to the film industry. In 2002, he served as a member of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival, and in 2013, he was a member of the jury at the Tokyo International Film Festival. He has also been invited to speak at international conferences and events about his work in film and music.

In addition to his work in traditional film, Funahara has also explored new forms of media. He has directed music videos for Japanese musicians and has produced and directed several TV dramas, including "Otosan to Yobasete" (2016) and "May I Blackmail You?" (2017). He has also been involved in the development of virtual reality content, producing a VR short film called "Undead Mansion" (2019).

Despite his busy schedule, Funahara continues to pursue his passion for music. He often performs live concerts, incorporating visuals and theatrical elements into his shows. His concerts have been praised for their unique fusion of traditional and modern music, as well as their powerful emotional impact.

Overall, Funahara's contributions to the Japanese arts scene are numerous and wide-ranging. Through his work in film, music, and philanthropy, he has made a significant impact on Japanese society and culture, and his influence is sure to be felt for years to come.

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Hiroshi Takemura

Hiroshi Takemura (October 24, 1953 Tokyo-) also known as Taku Takemura is a Japanese voice actor.

He graduated from Keio University in Tokyo with a degree in economics. Takemura began his career in voice acting during the 1970s and since then has been featured in a wide range of anime, TV dramas, video games, and films. Some of the notable roles he has played include Kiyoshi Shikino in the series "Touch", Shuichi Saihara in the game "Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony", and Bailey in the Japanese dub of "Transformers: Dark of the Moon". Takemura is known for his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his voice, which have earned him a loyal following among anime and gaming fans. In addition to voice acting, he has also worked as a radio personality and a narrator for various documentaries and programs. He continues to be an active and highly respected member of the Japanese voice acting community.

Takemura's talent and hard work has earned him numerous awards and recognition throughout his career. In 2011, he won the Best Supporting Actor award at the 5th Seiyu Awards for his portrayal of Shun Akiyama in the video game "Yakuza 4". He was nominated again in 2014 for his role as the narrator in the anime series "Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet". Takemura is also known for his charity work, and has participated in fundraising events for earthquake and tsunami relief efforts in Japan. Despite his success and fame, Takemura remains humble and dedicated to his craft, always striving to improve and give his best performances. His fans appreciate his professionalism and genuine kindness both on and off screen, and look forward to seeing what projects he will take on next.

Takemura is also an accomplished singer, having released several albums throughout his career. He is particularly known for his ability to perform theme songs for anime series, with some of his most popular tracks including "Virgin Heart" for the series "To Heart", and "Daydream Generation" for the iconic anime "K-On!". Takemura's musical talents have further endeared him to fans, who often praise his smooth and soulful voice.

Outside of his professional life, Takemura is known for his love of sports, particularly baseball and golf. He has often spoken about his passion for these sports in interviews, and has appeared in numerous charity events and exhibitions related to them. Takemura is also a committed environmentalist and has been involved in several initiatives and campaigns to promote sustainability and protect the planet.

Throughout his long and illustrious career, Taku Takemura has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile and talented voice actors in Japan. His rich and distinctive voice, combined with his ability to convey complex emotions, has made him a favorite among fans and critics alike. With his dedication to his craft and his commitment to making a positive impact on the world, Takemura's legacy is sure to endure for years to come.

Furthermore, in addition to his impressive acting career, Taku Takemura is also a seasoned writer. He has published several books, including essay collections and a novel, which showcase his talent for storytelling and introspection. Takemura's writing is known for its honesty and sincerity, as he often delves into personal experiences and emotions in his work. He has spoken about how his writing and acting are interconnected, with both being outlets for him to express himself and connect with others.Takemura's impact on the voice acting industry and Japanese entertainment as a whole is immeasurable. He has been a role model and inspiration for many aspiring actors, and his contributions to popular anime series and video games have earned him a place in the hearts of fans worldwide. With his many talents and boundless passion, Taku Takemura's legacy is sure to continue shining bright for generations to come.

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Kōichi Hashimoto

Kōichi Hashimoto (January 12, 1953 Chiba Prefecture-) a.k.a. Koichi Hashimoto, Youichi Mihashi, Yōichi Mitsuhashi, Mitsuhashi Yōichi, Kouichi Hashimoto or Hashimoto Koichi is a Japanese voice actor and actor.

He is most well-known for his work in anime, voicing characters such as Goku in the Japanese dub of Dragon Ball Z, Dr. Eggman in the Japanese dub of Sonic X, and Dr. Thomas Light in the Japanese dub of the Mega Man video game series. In addition to his voice over work, Hashimoto has also acted in a number of Japanese TV dramas and films. He has won multiple awards for his voice acting work, including the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 4th Seiyu Awards in 2010.

Hashimoto began his career in the entertainment industry in the early 1970s as a member of a theatrical troupe. He later transitioned to voice acting, and quickly gained popularity in the anime world for his distinctive voice and ability to bring characters to life. In addition to his roles in Dragon Ball Z, Sonic X, and Mega Man, Hashimoto has voiced characters in several other popular anime series, including Saint Seiya, One Piece, and Naruto.

Outside of his voice acting and acting work, Hashimoto is known for his passionate advocacy for animal rights. He has worked with several animal welfare organizations and has been recognized for his efforts to raise awareness about animal cruelty and promote responsible pet ownership. In 2014, he released a book titled "Koichi Hashimoto's Animal Kingdom" in which he shares his experiences caring for animals and offers tips for animal lovers.

Hashimoto continues to be active in the entertainment industry, and has remained a beloved figure in the anime community for decades. His work as a voice actor and actor has earned him a place among the most prominent and respected figures in Japanese entertainment.

Throughout his career, Kōichi Hashimoto has been recognized for his exceptional talent and contributions to the anime industry in Japan. In 2010, he received the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 4th Seiyu Awards for his outstanding voice acting work as Dr. Eggman in Sonic X. He has also been nominated for several other awards, including the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 5th Seiyu Awards in 2011 and the Overseas Fan Award at the 13th Seiyu Awards in 2019.

Hashimoto is a versatile actor who can bring a range of emotions to his roles, from the playful and energetic Goku to the sinister and calculated Dr. Eggman. His ability to connect with audiences through his performances has made him a popular choice for both lead and supporting roles in anime.

In addition to his work in anime and animal rights activism, Hashimoto has also lent his voice to numerous video games, such as Final Fantasy VII and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker. He has even voiced characters in English-language films, such as the Japanese version of The Lion King and The Adventures of Tintin.

Despite his many achievements, Hashimoto is known for his humble and down-to-earth nature. He continues to be an inspiration to fans and aspiring voice actors alike, and his contributions to Japanese entertainment will be remembered for many years to come.

Hashimoto has also been involved in teaching voice acting, coaching young actors and helping them hone their skills. He has taught at several institutions, including the Osaka University of Arts, and has held voice acting workshops across Japan.In addition to his contributions to the entertainment industry, Hashimoto is a devoted family man. He is married to singer and actress Yumi Matsutoya, with whom he has two children. Despite their busy schedules, the couple has managed to maintain a strong and loving relationship.Hashimoto is also an avid traveler, and enjoys exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. He has traveled extensively throughout Japan and around the world, and his experiences have inspired him to learn more about the people and places he encounters.While Hashimoto has achieved great success as an actor and voice actor, he remains committed to using his talents to make the world a better place. His work with animal welfare organizations and his dedication to promoting responsible pet ownership have made him a beloved figure among animal lovers in Japan and beyond. Hashimoto's commitment to his craft and his community have made him an inspiration to countless fans, and his legacy as a voice actor and actor will continue to inspire future generations.

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Ikue Mori

Ikue Mori (December 17, 1953 Tokyo-) also known as Mori, Ikue is a Japanese , .

Her albums include Hex Kitchen, Garden, B/Side, One Hundred Aspects of the Moon, Labyrinth, Myrninerest, Class Insecta, SYR 5, Hemophiliac and Near Nadir.

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Naoya Uchida

Naoya Uchida (May 1, 1953 Tokyo-) also known as Uchida Naaya is a Japanese actor, voice actor and singer.

Naoya Uchida has primarily worked in the anime and video game industries, providing the Japanese voices for many popular characters such as Doctor Doom in the Marvel vs Capcom series, Gene in the Metal Gear Solid series, and Kyosuke Munakata in Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope's Peak High School. He has also lent his voice to the Japanese dubs of Hollywood films such as the Terminator series and Jurassic Park. Uchida has also released multiple singles and albums throughout his career, showcasing his singing ability. In addition to his work in entertainment, he is also known for being a skilled swordfighter and has demonstrated his skills on various TV shows.

Uchida began his acting career in the late 1970s and has since appeared in various television dramas and films. One of his notable early roles was in the 1980 historical drama series "Shogun" where he played the character of Mariko's husband, Buntaro. He has also starred in several stage productions, including "Les Misérables" and "The Phantom of the Opera". Uchida is well-respected in the voice acting industry in Japan and has won several awards for his performances, including the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 2009 Seiyu Awards for his role in "Gintama". In addition to his voice work, Uchida has also done some scriptwriting and directing for anime and video games. He continues to be an active figure in the entertainment industry, with his latest work being the voice of Rattlesnake Jake in the Japanese dub of the 2011 film "Rango". Off screen, Uchida is known for his passion for music and has performed as a vocalist in various live events.

Naoya Uchida's interest in music started at a young age, and he learned to play multiple instruments such as the guitar, drums, and keyboard. He has cited Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones as some of his biggest musical influences. Uchida has also collaborated with other singers and musicians, including performing with the rock band Tokyo Yankees in 1990. His passion for music has extended beyond just performing, as he has hosted several radio shows focused on playing rock music.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Naoya Uchida is also involved in philanthropic efforts. He has been a part of organizations that provide aid to people affected by natural disasters, such as the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. He has also been involved in promoting AIDS awareness and research in Japan.

Despite his success, Uchida remains a humble and down-to-earth person. He has been praised by colleagues and fans alike for his professionalism and dedication to his craft. Naoya Uchida continues to inspire others with his talents and contributions to the entertainment industry, as well as his commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

Naoya Uchida's versatility as an actor and singer has earned him a wide fanbase both in Japan and abroad. He has performed live concerts in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Mexico, showcasing his vocal abilities and stage presence. Fans have praised his rockstar-like energy and charisma on stage, as well as his ability to connect with his audience.

Apart from his music and acting careers, Uchida is also a dedicated family man. He is married and has two children, whom he is known to dote on. In interviews, he has expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support throughout his career, and often speaks about the importance of family values.

Uchida's contributions to the entertainment industry have not gone unrecognized. In 2018, he was presented with the Special Award at the Tokyo Anime Awards for his contribution to anime voice acting. The award recognized his status as a trailblazer in the industry and his dedication to his craft.

As he approaches his 70s, Naoya Uchida continues to be an active performer and advocate for social causes. He remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry and a beloved icon to fans around the world.

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Akira Nishimura

Akira Nishimura (September 8, 1953 Osaka-) a.k.a. Nishimura, Akira is a Japanese , .

His most important albums: .

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Miki Sugimoto

Miki Sugimoto (January 28, 1953 Kanagawa Prefecture-) also known as Sugimoto, Miki is a Japanese , .

Actress and former gravure idol. She was one of the most popular actresses of the "Pink film" genre in Japan during the 1970s, and was known as an icon of the industry. Sugimoto appeared in numerous films throughout her career, including the "Stray Cat Rock" series and "Zero Woman: Red Handcuffs." She also ventured into mainstream cinema, starring in movies such as "Love Letter" and "The Inugami Family." After retiring from acting, Sugimoto became a popular television personality and cookbook author in Japan. Today, she is considered a legend of Japanese cinema and her work has influenced generations of filmmakers and actresses.

Sugimoto started her career as a fashion model, then transitioned to the entertainment industry as a singer and actress. She starred in over 40 films during her career and was nominated for several awards for her performances, including the prestigious Japan Academy Prize. Sugimoto's success in the Pink film industry, which was known for its sexually explicit content, made her a controversial figure in Japan. However, her popularity and talent transcended the genre, and she was praised by critics for her performances in more serious roles.

Sugimoto's influence on Japanese pop culture extends beyond her acting career. She was also a trendsetter in fashion, and her signature hairstyle, a short bob with bangs, became a popular look among young Japanese women in the 1970s. Her image has been featured in numerous magazines, books, and exhibitions, and she has been the subject of several documentaries.

In addition to her work in entertainment, Sugimoto is also a philanthropist and has been involved in various charity causes throughout her life. She has been recognized for her contributions to society and was awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon by the Japanese government in 2016.

Despite her retirement from acting, Sugimoto remains a beloved figure in Japan and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and performers in the country.

Sugimoto was born in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, to a family of artists. Her father was a sculptor and her mother was a painter. Sugimoto's creative upbringing instilled a love for the arts in her, and she pursued modeling and acting in her youth. She made her acting debut in 1970 and quickly gained popularity for her captivating performances and striking looks.

Throughout her career, Sugimoto worked with many of Japan's most famous filmmakers and actors, including Kinji Fukasaku and Sonny Chiba. She was praised for her ability to bring depth and emotion to whatever role she played, whether it was a tough-as-nails gang member or a tormented lover. Her talent and range earned her a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.

After retiring from acting in the mid-1980s, Sugimoto shifted her focus to television and writing. She became a regular personality on a variety of shows, where her wit and charm won over audiences. Sugimoto also authored several cookbooks, combining her passion for food with her love of sharing her experiences and knowledge with others.

Despite the many challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry and the controversies that came with her Pink film work, Sugimoto remains an inspiration to many. She continues to be celebrated for her contributions to Japanese cinema and for paving the way for future generations of female artists.

Sugimoto's impact on Japanese pop culture is reflected in her ongoing fanbase and the tributes paid to her in various forms of media. Her signature hairstyle and tough-yet-vulnerable persona have been emulated by countless actresses and musicians over the decades. Sugimoto also inspired a generation of female filmmakers, who credit her with breaking down barriers in a male-dominated industry and providing a strong, complex female role model on screen.

In recent years, Sugimoto has been the subject of several documentaries and retrospectives, which showcase her enduring popularity and impact on Japanese cinema. She has also been recognized for her humanitarian work, including her support for victims of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.

Today, Sugimoto is retired but remains an active presence in Japanese media and culture. She continues to inspire and delight audiences with her warmth, intelligence, and enduring talent. Her legacy as an actress, model, author, and philanthropist has left an indelible mark on Japanese culture and will continue to resonate for years to come.

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Reiko Ike

Reiko Ike (May 25, 1953 Tokyo-) also known as Ikeda Reiko (池田玲子), Ike, Reiko or 池玲子 is a Japanese pornographic film actor.

Her most well known albums: 恍惚の世界.

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Kazumi Watanabe

Kazumi Watanabe (October 14, 1953 Shibuya-) is a Japanese guitarist and composer.

His albums: Dandyism, Mobo Club, Mobo I, Mobo II, Mobo Splash, The Spice of Life in Concert, Kilowatt, The Spice of Life, Mermaid Boulevard and To Chi Ka. Genres he performed: Jazz fusion and Jazz.

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Mitsuru Hirata

Mitsuru Hirata (November 2, 1953 Toyohashi-) also known as Hirata Mitsuru is a Japanese actor.

His most well known albums: and .

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June Yamagishi

June Yamagishi (June 6, 1953 Ise-) also known as Yamagishi, June is a Japanese guitarist.

Related albums: Really?!. Genres related to him: Blues, Jazz and Rhythm and blues.

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Chie Mukai

Chie Mukai (February 17, 1953-) otherwise known as Mukai Chie or 向井千恵 is a Japanese , .

Her most well known albums: Kokyu Improvisation.

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Hiroyuki Namba

Hiroyuki Namba (September 9, 1953 Sugamo-) also known as 難波弘之, Nanba Hiroyuki, Namba Hiroyuki, なんばひろゆき, なんばひろゆき, Hiroyuki Nanba or Namba, Hiroyuki is a Japanese musician, composer and author.

His albums include Armitage III - Poly-matrix - the Movie, Armitage III, Armitage III Cybermatrix (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), Genso Suikoden Ongakushu, Armitage III: Dual Matrix and Armitage III: Poly Matrix. Genres: Progressive rock.

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Kenji Fukui

Kenji Fukui (September 8, 1953 Minami-ku, Hiroshima-) also known as Fukui Kenji is a Japanese announcer.

He has worked for numerous television networks in Japan, including NHK, TBS, and TV Asahi. Fukui is perhaps best known for being the lead announcer for the Tokyo Broadcasting System's coverage of the Olympic Games in 1998 and 2000. In addition to his work as an announcer, he has also appeared in several Japanese films and television dramas. Fukui is widely regarded as one of the most respected and accomplished announcers in Japan, and has received numerous awards for his contributions to the field of broadcasting.

He earned his degree in law from Keio University in Tokyo, and later completed a master's degree in international relations at the University of Southern California in the United States. Fukui has also written several books on the subjects of broadcasting and public speaking, and is a popular lecturer on these topics in Japan. He is known for his smooth delivery and clear enunciation, and is often called upon to voice-over foreign films and television programs that are broadcast in Japan. Fukui has been married since 1983 and has two daughters. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf and practicing yoga.

Fukui began his career as an announcer in 1977, when he joined NHK as a sports announcer. He quickly gained recognition for his talent and professionalism, and was soon offered positions at other major networks. In addition to his work with the Olympic Games, Fukui has also covered a range of other major international sporting events, including the World Cup and the Asian Games.

As an actor, Fukui has appeared in a variety of dramas and films, including the popular Japanese TV series "Zenkai Girl." He has also lent his voice to numerous animated programs and commercials.

Fukui's contributions to broadcasting have been recognized with a number of awards, including an Excellence in Broadcasting award from the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. In addition, he has been recognized for his work in promoting public speaking and communication skills among young people in Japan.

Despite his busy schedule, Fukui remains committed to giving back to his community. He is an active supporter of several charitable organizations, and has organized fundraising events to support disaster relief efforts in Japan. He is also a frequent speaker at schools and community events, where he shares his expertise on broadcasting and communication with audiences of all ages.

Fukui's dedication and talent have earned him widespread acclaim both in Japan and abroad. He is a frequent guest speaker at international conferences and events, and has been invited to speak at major universities in Asia and North America. Fukui is also a sought-after media commentator on a wide range of subjects, from sports to politics and culture.

In recent years, Fukui has also become increasingly involved in environmental causes. He is a vocal advocate for sustainable living and has been active in promoting conservation and recycling efforts in Japan. He has also been involved in initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.

Despite his many accomplishments, Fukui remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He is widely respected for his professionalism and integrity, and is regarded as a role model for aspiring announcers and broadcasters in Japan. His contributions to the world of broadcasting and his ongoing commitment to public service have made him one of the most inspirational figures in Japanese media.

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Sachiko Kobayashi

Sachiko Kobayashi (December 5, 1953 Niigata-) a.k.a. Kobayashi, Sachiko is a Japanese actor, voice actor, tarento and singer.

Discography: and . Genres related to her: Enka.

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Kōzō Murashita

Kōzō Murashita (February 28, 1953 Minamata-June 24, 1999) also known as Kozo Murashita, Murashita Kouzou, Murashita, Kouzou, 村下孝蔵 or むらしたこうぞう was a Japanese singer.

His discography includes: 夢の記録, 林檎と檸檬: 村下孝蔵ベストセレクション, 七夕夜想曲　村下孝蔵最高選曲集　其の壱, 初恋 —浅き夢みし—, 歌人●ソングコレクション, , , GUITAR KOZO and . Genres: J-pop.

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Junichi Inagaki

Junichi Inagaki (July 9, 1953 Sendai-) a.k.a. Inagaki, Junichi is a Japanese , .

His albums: Super Best: Album Favorite Collection, Super Best: Single Hits Collection, on TELEVISION, , , Shylights, , , and . Genres: J-pop.

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Kei Akagi

Kei Akagi (March 16, 1953 Sendai-) is a Japanese jazz pianist.

His albums include Mirror Puzzle and Playroom. His related genres: Jazz and Jazz fusion.

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