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Joe Hisaishi is a renowned Japanese composer and musician known for his work on the soundtracks for numerous Studio Ghibli films, including "Always with Me" from the film "Spirited Away." Here are some interesting facts about him:

1. Pseudonym: Joe Hisaishi is the pen name of Mamoru Fujisawa, which he adopted to create a distinct identity for his musical career. He chose the name "Joe" after the jazz trumpeter and vocalist Chet Baker, and "Hisaishi" because it's a homage to the Japanese author Yasunari Kawabata's novel "The Sound of the Mountain."

2. Collaboration with Studio Ghibli: Hisaishi is most famous for his long-standing collaboration with the renowned Studio Ghibli and its co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki. He has composed the music for many of their iconic films, such as "My Neighbor Totoro," "Spirited Away," "Princess Mononoke," and "Howl's Moving Castle."

3. Influence of Classical Music: Joe Hisaishi's music often draws inspiration from classical composers like Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel. His compositions for Studio Ghibli films often feature orchestral and piano arrangements that are rich and emotionally resonant.

4. Global Recognition: Hisaishi's work with Studio Ghibli has brought him international acclaim, making him one of the most recognized and respected composers in the world of animation and film music. His contributions have helped introduce Japanese film music to a global audience.

5. Awards and Honors: Joe Hisaishi has received numerous awards for his music, including several Japanese Academy Awards for Best Music Score. His compositions for Studio Ghibli films have also won several international awards and accolades.

6. Beyond Film Scores: While he is best known for his film scores, Hisaishi has also released solo albums and has a successful career as a composer for stage productions, TV dramas, and commercials in Japan.

7. Versatility: Joe Hisaishi's music spans a wide range of styles and genres, from orchestral and cinematic compositions to more experimental and electronic pieces. This versatility allows him to create music that suits the unique atmospheres of Studio Ghibli films.

8. Live Performances: Hisaishi has performed live around the world, conducting orchestras in concerts featuring his film music. His live performances often attract large audiences, showcasing his enduring popularity.

9. Impact on Japanese Culture: Joe Hisaishi's work is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and has played a significant role in shaping the emotional landscapes of Studio Ghibli's films. His music has become an integral part of the cinematic experience for both Japanese and international audiences.

10. "Always with Me": The song "Always with Me" (いつも何度でも, "Itsumo Nando Demo") from the film "Spirited Away" is one of Joe Hisaishi's most famous compositions. Sung by Yumi Kimura, it is a touching and memorable piece that captures the essence of the film and its themes of love, separation, and nostalgia.

Joe Hisaishi's musical contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of film and animation, and his collaboration with Studio Ghibli has been a significant factor in the success and global recognition of their films.