Yoshida Brothers

Widely celebrated throughout their homeland of Japan, the Yoshida Brothers command exceptional mastery over the Tsugaru shamisen, a classic three-string instrument bearing resemblance to the banjo. They have expanded the instrument well beyond conventional Japanese folk boundaries by weaving in influences from pop, smooth jazz, rock, and new age genres. The duo delivers performances marked by the power and confidence typical of rock guitarists, all while honoring the shamisen along with its deep cultural roots. Hailing from Noboribetsu in Hokkaido prefecture, Ryoichiro Yoshida entered the world in 1977 and Kenichi Yoshida followed in 1979. Both brothers began playing the shamisen at age five and, in 1990, advanced their training with master musician Takashi Sasaki. Following strong results in multiple shamisen competitions, they issued their debut major-label album in Japan during 1999; the release achieved unexpected commercial traction with sales exceeding 100,000 units and marked the start of a string of successful recordings. Although the Yoshida Brothers initially adhered to traditional folk approaches, they gradually adopted a broader stylistic range, and their stage shows grew progressively more ambitious. After additional high-charting albums and well-received domestic tours, the pair launched their American career in 2003 with a self-titled album on Domo Records and a limited series of U.S. appearances. Subsequent international dates ensued, leading to the 2006 album III being tracked in Los Angeles and followed by performances across Europe, the United States, and Hong Kong. In 2007 their music reached an even wider American audience when one track accompanied a television commercial for the Nintendo Wii gaming console.