斉藤タク

Saito Taku is an accomplished guitarist with a career defined by instrumental mastery and a prolific creative output. His musical foundation was laid in elementary school when he first encountered the guitar, later immersing himself in hard rock and heavy metal during his youth, performing in Loudness cover bands. After moving to Tokyo at the age of 21, he pursued a professional career while working in various kitchens, eventually gaining national attention by winning a televised audition in 1992. He made his major debut in 1993 with the single "Boku no Mita Beatles wa TV no Naka." Throughout the 1990s, he rose to prominence with hits such as "Aruite Kaerou," which was featured in the program Ponkickies, and the enduring classic "Utautai no Ballad." His 15th-anniversary period (2007–2008) marked a significant surge in popularity with the success of "Wedding Song" and "Yaa Mujou," the latter winning an Excellence Award at the 50th Japan Record Awards. Known for his technical versatility, he has contributed to numerous units, including Mannish Boys with Tatsuya Nakamura, Curling Sitones, and the 2024 collaboration Okamura Kazuyoshi. His musicality is deeply intertwined with his extensive collection of over 94 instruments, including signature Gibson models and vintage Fenders. Saito's work also extends to cinema, notably his long-standing collaboration with author Kotaro Isaka, for whom he has provided music for film adaptations such as Fish Story, Golden Slumber, and Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.