Takao Tajima in Morioka

Takao Tajima is a Japanese singer, songwriter and guitarist, born in Tokyo in 1966, best known as the leader and sole continuing member of Original Love. His music draws on soul, funk, jazz and pop, and the group’s signature songs include “Seppun” and “Asahi no Ataru Michi.” He also served as a vocalist for Pizzicato Five before Original Love made its major-label debut. The long-running Hitori Soul Tour has presented Takao Tajima alone onstage, performing with vocals, guitar, keyboards and looping equipment. He has also toured with a full band under the Original Love name, a format that has taken the group to Fuji Rock Festival.