Kyu Sakamoto

Kyu Sakamoto was popular in the early 60's even having international success with his Japanese love song, "Ue o muite arukō." When it was brought over to the UK, they changed the name to "Sukiyaki." The new title had nothing to do with the song but sukiyaki is delicious and it was easier for the non-japanese speakers to pronounce. I would have called it, "A China Chong Chong." That's catchier and that's what all that gobbledy gook sounds sounds like to me. That was like three kinds of offensive if you look closely. *bows and hits gong*

Below you can check out his hit song, "Sukiyaki" and a couple more. He definitely sounds like a product of his times. He has some Four Seasons vocal styling going on and you can even see some older swing sensibilities in the backing music and phrasing. He is an interesting study of cultural appropriation and a melding of styles.



Kyu Sakamoto- Sukiyaki


Kyu Sakamoto- Good Timing


Kyu Sakamoto- Hige No Uti


Kyu Sakamoto- Mo Hitori No Boku