In the late 1980s, I left my home country with a strong aspiration to study film in Hollywood, traveling via Japan on my way abroad.
However, during that journey, I encountered Japan and was deeply captivated—almost as if I had discovered a new continent. What was meant to be a brief stop became a lifelong chapter, and now more than forty years have passed since I made Japan my home.
At that time, Japan was in the midst of its economic bubble, filled with energy and optimism.
Within this dynamic environment, foreign musicians like myself were given remarkable opportunities to collaborate with outstanding Japanese artists. I was fortunate to participate in numerous concerts, recordings, and even anime music productions, gaining invaluable experience along the way.
In particular, I had the privilege of working with and engaging in live performances, recordings, and musical exchanges with leading figures in Japanese music, including Ryuichi Sakamoto, Yoko Kanno, and Shokichi Kina. These experiences profoundly influenced my artistic perspective and allowed me to learn from some of the most creative minds in the industry.
On a personal level, I was also fortunate to pursue my long-standing interest in fashion by studying apparel at university, and later working in the industry for a period of time. This further broadened my range of creative expression.
Now, having reached my sixtieth year, I am embarking on a new chapter—pursuing my lifelong dream of creating an original musical, together with a team of talented collaborators who share the same vision.
Furthermore, beginning in 2026, I have also committed to participating in CUEL FOODS, originally established as a second venture by Ryo Yamada, producer of Wuyontana Music. Through the fusion of music and culinary arts, we aim to transcend borders—geographical, cultural, and linguistic—and contribute to a more connected and inspired world.
Moving forward, we will continue to create meaningful experiences that connect people across differences, and bring new inspiration and possibilities to the global stage.
M&M Production
Thana Yamada, Representative
Wuyontana