RADWIMPS
Japanese rock band renowned for introspective lyrics and anime film soundtracks.
Formed in Kanagawa Prefecture in 2001, RADWIMPS rose to international prominence through collaborations with director Makoto Shinkai. The quartet, led by vocalist Yojiro Noda, blends alternative rock with orchestral elements across nine studio albums. Their soundtrack for 'Your Name' (2016) became a cultural phenomenon, topping charts globally.
- Band name combines slang 'rad' (excellent) and 'wimp', symbolizing 'awesome coward' - reflecting vulnerability in their music.
- Faced controversy in 2020 when performing in Israel amid political tensions, clarifying their stance as apolitical artists.
- Pioneered 'orchestral rock' fusion for Shinkai's films, recording with the London Philharmonic Orchestra for 'Weathering With You' (2019).
- Drummer Satoshi Yamaguchi temporarily left in 2013 due to hearing disorders; permanently replaced by Akira Kuwahara in 2015.
