ARTIST EXPLORER

SEIJIN NOBORIKAWA
Legendary Okinawan musician who died in March 2013.

RINSHO KADEKARU
The godfather of Shima Uta (island songs) who died in 1999.

TETSUHIRO DAIKU
One of Okinawa's most respected musicians, from strictly traditional to albums recorded with brass band and jazz musicians.

SHOUKICHI KINA
Legendary figure of Okinawan music, one of the first to incorporate rock, reggae and other sounds into Okinawan music.

YASUKATSU OSHIMA
Brilliant Okinawan musician from Ishigaki island playing mostly in the traditional style.

TAKASHI HIRAYASU
Okinawan sanshin maestro's solo albums plus internationally acclaimed collaborations with late American guitarist Bob Brozman.

NENES/NENEZ/YASUKO YOSHIDA
Four women singers, the original version of which is now disbanded.

SADAO CHINA
Solo and collaboration albums from another of the greats of Okinawan music, also known as producer of Nenes.

MISAKO KOJA
Original leader of Nenes, solo albums and with Unaigumi.


RINKEN BAND / TOMOKO UEHARA / TINK TINK
One of Okinawa's most popular and durable groups, from the original wave of Okinawan roots pop. Plus Rinken's wife Tomoko Uehara's solo albums and Rinken produced artists Tink Tink and other projects.

RIKKI
Superb female singer from Amami island, traditional and modern influences.

KANAKO HORIUCHI
Versatile and engaging musician, equally at home playing traditional music, collaborating with artists from around the world, playing ska or Okinawan electronic club music.

AN-CHANG PROJECT/SHISARS
Japanese groups mix Okinawan music with Pacific Island influences.

RYUKYU UNDERGROUND
UK/US duo bring ancient Okinawan sounds to the dancefloor with club mixes.