Kotaro Oshio to Hold 'MY BEST' Hall Concert in June to Kick Off 25th Anniversary Year!

Acoustic guitarist Kotaro Oshio. Since his major debut in 2002, he has been highly acclaimed both domestically and internationally for his unique playing style, which utilizes open tuning and tapping techniques. His powerful arrangements and warm, delicate guitar play have garnered support across generations. On June 21st and 27th, he will hold commemorative concerts in Tokyo and Osaka, stating, 'I want to spend the year leading up to my 25th anniversary with my fans.' We asked him about his expectations for the concert titled 'MY BEST,' along with many memories. We also feature a special 'Kotaro Oshio's MY BEST' segment!

-- What is the thought behind the title 'MY BEST'?
(Oshio) I have created nearly 200 songs. This concert will feature a selection of the best tracks from my perspective, including songs nurtured by my fans and songs I have played continuously at concerts. I have a deep attachment to every song, and I am sure the setlist will be pleasing to everyone.

-- Please tell us about a memorable concert episode.
(Oshio) After finishing a concert and giving my final greeting, a man's voice from the audience shouted, 'Thank you!' It is usually the other way around, where I thank the audience. But that day, the 'thank you' from the audience really touched my heart, and I couldn't help but tear up. Another time, I had a very panicked memory. A little girl was in the audience with her father. I improvised 'GeGeGe no Kitaro' to make her happy, but the lighting staff made the venue atmosphere eerie to match the song, and instead of being happy, the girl burst into tears! It has been over 20 years since then, so I hope it has become a funny story for that family (laughs).

-- What has been the happiest thing about continuing as a guitarist?
(Oshio) It is that there are people who support Kotaro Oshio among the many guitarists out there. I always get nervous before a concert. But just thinking that so many people came to the venue for me fills my heart with warmth. Back in my indie days, when I held a concert at a small coffee shop, no one came. I once panicked and called an acquaintance, asking, 'Can you come right away?' They got angry and said, 'Tell me sooner!' (laughs).

-- It is said that you used to perform at the plaza in front of Tokyo International Forum Hall C, where you will perform on June 21st.
(Oshio) That is right. I performed at the plaza of the Tokyo International Forum for a public radio recording or live broadcast. It was winter, so I held a hot coffee to warm my fingertips while playing. I used to look at the building where the hall is and think, 'I want to perform in this hall someday!' So it was very moving when I finally achieved it. Many fans found me at that plaza, so it is a place full of memories. It is a venue I love with a wonderful stage and audience, and since it has been a while since my last solo concert there, I am really looking forward to it.

-- Many professional guitarists declare themselves fans of yours, and we often see social media videos of fans trying to copy your songs.
(Oshio) I watch them sometimes too. In the past, guitar kids would often come up to me and say, 'I'm copying your style!' But once, someone told me, 'I had no friends or hobbies after my husband was transferred, but because of you, I started participating in a guitar circle, and now I have more hobbies and friends!' I was so happy that my music helped expand people's circles, and I remember being impressed. In my image, female guitarists often cover upbeat songs, while male guitarists seem to play more tear-jerking ballads. That is just my image (laughs).

-- That is the ultimate reward for an artist.
(Oshio) Yesterday at the recording studio, an artist who was recording in the next studio came to greet me, saying, 'I practiced your version of 'Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence' when I was in junior high!' As a guitarist, it is truly a joy to have people want to copy my play. It is proof that they like it, and I myself have copied many masterpieces with the feeling of 'That's cool! Maybe I can play that?' I have felt lonely when people told me, 'Your technique is too unique to copy,' so I am happy to see more 'I tried playing' videos. There are even explanation videos, and while I am impressed by how much they have researched, sometimes the commentator copies a mistake I made during a concert... (laughs).

-- Your songs seem to be enriching the lives of your fans.
(Oshio) My music life is also being enriched by everyone. With that gratitude, I will deliver my 'MY BEST' performance at the upcoming concert, so I would be happy if you could celebrate the prologue of my 25th anniversary year with me. I'll be waiting at the venue!

▼ Bonus Interview 'Kotaro Oshio's MY BEST'
MY BEST Curry / Sri Lankan-style spice curry from 'Curry Shop Hatsukoi'
'I like European-style curry and soup curry, but Sri Lankan curry has a great dashi flavor that suits the Japanese palate! I'm completely hooked.'
MY BEST Drama / Korean Dramas
'I'm hooked on the emotional fluctuations of people in special situations and the realism of the thoroughly crafted worldviews in shows like 'Squid Game' and 'Crash Landing on You.' A recent favorite is 'The Uncanny Counter.''
MY BEST Travel / Okinawa
'Music is playing all over the city, and at first, it feels like being in a foreign country, but there is a warmth that makes me feel it's definitely Japan, and it's very comfortable. It feels like someone is telling me, 'You can take it easier.''