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Japanese guitarist and songwriter renowned for his work in influential rock bands Thee Michelle Gun Elephant and The Birthday.Born in Tokyo, Obata co-founded Thee Michelle Gun Elephant in 1991, serving as guitarist under the stage name Chiba until their 2003 breakup. In 2006, he formed The Birthday with former bandmate Yusuke Chiba. He remains active as a performer and composer, blending garage rock, punk, and blues influences....