Tatsuro Taira
Tatsuro Taira is a Japanese singer-songwriter who has been active since the late 1970s. He is best known for his soft rock and pop songs, which often feature lush arrangements and sophisticated melodies. Taira has released over 30 albums, including several live albums and compilations. He has also written and produced songs for other artists, such as Mariya Takeuchi, Yumi Matsutōya, and Akina Nakamori.
Taira was born in Tokyo in 1953. He began playing the guitar at a young age and was influenced by a wide range of music, including rock, pop, jazz, and Brazilian music. Taira formed his first band, The Spiders, in 1973. The band released two albums before disbanding in 1976.
In 1977, Taira released his solo debut album, "Samurai." The album was a commercial success and established Taira as one of the leading singers in Japan. He followed up with a string of hit albums, including "Ride on Time" (1980), "Canary" (1981), and "Come on Baby" (1982).
Taira's music is often characterized by its sophisticated arrangements and lush melodies. He is also known for his distinctive vocal style, which is often compared to that of Michael McDonald. Taira's songs have been covered by a wide range of artists, including Boz Scaggs, Diana Ross, and Sergio Mendes.
In addition to his music career, Taira has also appeared in several films and television shows. He has also written and produced several books, including an autobiography. Taira is married to singer-songwriter Akina Nakamori.
Taira is one of the most successful and respected singers in Japan. His music has been enjoyed by millions of people around the world. He is a true pioneer of Japanese pop music and his influence can still be heard in the music of today's artists.