The king of anime songs, Isao Sasaki, will sing Space Battleship Yamato in a special program that follows his footsteps over the 65 years since his debut as a singer
Published at “The Television” on January 10, 2025. See the original article here.
Isao Sasaki, the king of anime songs, will be a guest on the January 10th (Friday) episode of the anime song program Anison Days, hosted by Hiroko Moriguchi. While tracing his footsteps as he celebrates his 65th anniversary as a singer, we will explore his motivation for continuing to sing even today. In a live performance, in addition to the classic song Space Battleship Yamato, he will collaborate with Moriguchi on the duet song Ashita Yume Mite.
Hiroko Moriguchi: “As soon as I finished singing, tears started to flow”
Isao Sasaki: I was able to speak comfortably and naturally under Hiroko Moriguchi’s relaxed and friendly hosting. Normally, I tend to get nervous and stiff when I’m recording a talk show, but I was able to record this one in a relaxed atmosphere. It was a lot of fun.
Hiroko Moriguchi: When I was 17 and making my debut, I sang at a music festival in my hometown of Fukuoka, and Mr. Sasaki was the MC. Every time I’ve worked with him since then, I’ve been reminded of those days, and I’ve always felt the weight of his words and his love for his juniors. I’ve always thought that every second is precious. At the studio live, I collaborated with Mr. Sasaki and Mitsuko Horie on Asu Yumete, the ending theme of Science Ninja Team Gatchaman II, and as soon as I finished singing, I burst into tears. I was reminded once again through today’s recording that he is a true professional who will always deliver wonderful singing and move us at any time.
Mikio Sakai (cohost/performer): I was very surprised to hear that he was three years older than The Beatles. He was still active when Elvis was in his prime. The fact that he has been through the history of music from the 1950s and the early days of the Japanese pop scene is just amazing. I was very happy to share the stage with such a senior.
Isao Sasaki: “Anime songs are Japan’s treasure”
Isao Sasaki: Happy New Year to everyone. Recently, I’ve been meeting more and more young fans, and whenever I meet people who have supported anime songs for generations, I feel the wonder of anime songs. I think anime songs are now Japan’s treasure. Thank you for your support this year too.
Hiroko Moriguchi: This is the 8th year since the program started, and we were able to kick off 2025 with a bang by welcoming the esteemed Isao Sasaki as our guest. This time, it will be a great opportunity to learn about the genetics of anime songs through his presence, which is full of energy and brilliance, and the famous songs that have been passed down through the generations. I really hope you’ll watch it. Personally, I will be celebrating my 40th year in the industry this year, so I hope to be able to continue singing for as long as possible, drawing on the power of Mr. Sasaki’s 65th year in the industry, and carefully facing up to my songs.
Mikio Sakai (cohost/performer): This episode will feature some very catchy and profound songs, so I especially hope that the younger generation will tune in. Of course, the songs of today are also great, but this might be a good opportunity to take a fresh look at the history of Japanese music.
