Who's behind the notes? Discover Kyu Sakamoto: The Voice Behind 'Sukiyaki'
Kyu Sakamoto was a Japanese pop singer who gained international fame with his hit song "Sukiyaki" in the early 1960s. Here are some interesting facts about Kyu Sakamoto and the song "Sukiyaki":
"Sukiyaki" wasn't originally called that: The song was originally titled "上を向いて歩こう" (Ue o Muite Arukou) in Japanese, which translates to "I Look Up As I Walk." It was given the name "Sukiyaki" for its international release because it was thought that the Japanese title would be difficult for non-Japanese speakers to pronounce and remember.
Chart-topping success: "Sukiyaki" became a massive hit both in Japan and internationally. In 1963, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making Kyu Sakamoto the first and only Japanese artist to achieve this feat.
Worldwide appeal: The song's appeal went beyond language barriers. Even though most non-Japanese listeners couldn't understand the lyrics, the catchy melody and Sakamoto's emotive singing style resonated with audiences worldwide.
Tragic end: Despite his global success, Kyu Sakamoto's life was tragically cut short. In 1985, he was one of the 520 people who died in the Japan Airlines Flight 123 crash, one of the deadliest single-aircraft disasters in history.
Legacy: Kyu Sakamoto's legacy lives on through "Sukiyaki" and his contribution to the international pop music scene. The song continues to be covered and remembered by artists from various genres and cultures.
Cover versions: Over the years, "Sukiyaki" has been covered by many artists, including A Taste of Honey, Kenny Ball, and 4 P.M. These covers helped keep the song's popularity alive in different parts of the world.
Honored memory: In his hometown of Kawasaki, Japan, there is a bronze statue erected in Kyu Sakamoto's honor, which stands as a tribute to his musical achievements.
Cultural significance: "Sukiyaki" is not only known for its musical appeal but also for its cultural significance as a symbol of Japan's influence on global popular culture in the 1960s.
Sampling: In the world of hip-hop, "Sukiyaki" has been sampled by several artists. Notably, Slick Rick used a sample from the song in his track "Behind Bars."
Kyu Sakamoto's "Sukiyaki" remains an enduring classic and a testament to the power of music to transcend language and cultural boundaries.