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Hiroshima’s music has the unique ability to take you on an emotional journey, create images in your mind and transport you.
Hiroshima’s music, with its blend of traditional Japanese instruments has allowed me to express who I am, a 3rd generation, Japanese America, Japanese classical dancer. Hiroshima’s music continues to contribute to the awakening of interest and appreciation for things Japanese.
– Sumako Azuma
Classical Japanese Dance Master, Choreographer
“I congratulate ‘Hiroshima’ on their 30th anniversary this year. Hiroshima is one of the most innovative jazz groups today blending Japanese and American instruments to create a unique and fresh sound that has become a staple at contemporary jazz radio for many years.
My relationship with Hiroshima goes well beyond my tenure at AASA and I am proud to have been able to work with them in so many different settings including one of our most memorable concerts with the full Asia America Symphony.
Thank you to the members and friends of Hiroshima for all you have done and all the lives you have touched over the last 30 years. You’re the best!”
– David Benoit,
Grammy Award-winning Jazz Pianist, Producer, Composer
Congratulations to the great Hiroshima on 30 years of ground-breaking music, 30 years of making us proud. To a Japanese American “hapa” like me, Hiroshima’s music is as comforting as the Japanese comfort food my mom made for me as a kid. A katsudon with a side of Hiroshima on a sunny day in L.A. is like a little slice of heaven.
Thanks for making music that brings people together from across the oceans. Thanks for bringing people together right here in LA. Gombate Hiroshima!
– Frank Buckley,
Anchor, KTLA Morning News
“Presenting HIROSHIMA’S debut concert in Washington, DC at Cramton Auditorium on March 8, 1980 (Two Sold Out Shows) remains a highlight in our 35 years of concert promotion. Dan Kuramoto’s performance was musically rich and spiritually rewarding. The impact of June playing the koto brought the audience response to a new and powerful level. We remember well. Congratulations.”
– Darryl Brooks & Carol Kirkendall,
Concert Promoters, DC Enterprises, Inc.
"Hiroshima is one of a kind. Since the very beginning, I've always loved the band. In my opinion June Kuramoto is the greatest koto player in the world and the only koto player I know of who truly improvises".
– Stanley Clarke,
Multi Grammy Award-winning Jazz Bassist, Composer
"I have been so very honored to represent Hiroshima for the past 30 years. It is a special pleasure because every time I listen to Hiroshima, I discover a uniqueness and the unexpected. The music reaches you in a rainbow of colors and transports you to another plane. It remains truly one of the most inventive sounds to be heard today."
Kindest regards,
– Jay Cooper,
Music Business Attorney
For me, Hiroshima was the first to capture what Asian American music would sound like, feel like and be like. It gave the Asian American community an identity through music and a rhythm that was uniquely American and Asian, and a reason to celebrate our heritage.
My artistic values have been shaped by the music of Hiroshima. As a leader in the arts community, I am constantly asked to define what is Asian American. If I could not state it in words, I would definitely play something by Hiroshima.
Congratulations Hiroshima! Like a fine wine, you’ve aged to perfectly define Asian American through your music.
– Tim Dang,
Artistic Director, East West Players
Hiroshima is a legendary group. They were one of the first bands to incorporate the sounds of Asia with Jazz and make it palatable not only for the American listener but for fans all over the world. In many ways they were the precursor to what later was called Smooth Jazz.
I had the pleasure of producing several tracks for the band some years ago and found them to be excellent musicians dedicated to their craft and just as important, all around good people.
I salute them for sticking together especially in this whirlwind Music Business. It’s not easy keeping the nucleus of a group together for one year much less thirty years.
Hiroshima is a great band and I offer them my best in the years to come.
– George Duke,
Multi Grammy Award-winning producer, composer, arranger, keyboardist
“One of the truly groundbreaking cultural/musical forces in America. Hiroshima was really one of the first and only bands to combine eastern & western & southern & northern influences in the music, the instruments, and the membership of the band. Artistic and social cross-fertilization has been at the very heart of the band’s mission. Through uplifting, experimental, and passionate musical styles Hiroshima has closed the divisions and healed the wounds that were rampant in American society. I was fortunate enough to spend three years with the band creating a theatrical production that world premiered at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles. I can attest to the humanity and integrity that is the bedrock of their musical expression. I can also tell you the band knows how to reach out and be real brothers and sisters to this 3rd generation Black Irish kid. They are family and are there through thick and thin. I wish I could tell the “elevator story” but it might be better for me to leave it right here.”
– Robert Egan,
Director, Producer, “Sansei” co-writer
Hiroshima is so much more than a musical group. They are a movement that energized an entire generation, giving it a rhythm, a sound, and a voice that pursuits in reminding all of us, “We demand to be heard!”
– Ellen Endo,
Asian American Journalists Association
Hiroshima has been at the forefront of creating original music which Asian Pacific Americans can relate to and be proud of. The music is universal and enjoyed by people everywhere. The first time I saw the band, I was mesmerized and inspired. To be able to perform and record with 'the band' has been a great pleasure and honor. Looking forward to many more years of incredible music.
Congratulations!
– peace, Kenny Endo,
Performer, Composer, Founder of Taiko Center of the Pacific
Hiroshima Viva! Viva Hiroshima! Hitting 30 and still going strong. Hiroshima has created a dynamic legacy of music and performance art. This blast of creative expression continues to grow, evolve and entertain audiences worldwide: an artistic fusion that transcends cultural barriers and traditions to create an on-going vibrant musical effort that speaks to the heart and soul. Hiroshima is an American Original. Hiroshima Viva! Viva Hiroshima! c/s
– Phil Esparza,
Executive Producer, El Teatro Campesino
“Hiroshima has provided some of fusion jazz and world music’s most significant, innovative, and soulful music over the course of parts of four decades.
The music is bold, daring, romantic and playful almost at the same time.
Dan and June Kuramoto’s prolific artistry reflect not just a musical conscience, but an unrelenting social and philosophical awareness that gives the music depth and passion.
A long time ago, I learned an important word because of Hiroshima’s music; in Japanese the word is” kokoro”. In English it means “heart”. Nothing defines this band better than that word.
– Roy Firestone,
Multi Emmy Award-winning sports television host and entertainer
"I remember hearing about Hiroshima several years before their first album came out in 1979. They were playing Asian American gigs and were known as an Asian American band with a political message. The band literally provided the soundtrack and consciousness for the burgeoning AA movement that was emerging from West Coast college campuses and Asian enclaves. What has always impressed me about Dan and the rest of the gang is that, even as they have gained increasing acclaim for their inimitable sound and unshakeable message of hope, they have never lost sight of their origins, never failed to keep watering the roots of their rich cultural heritages. In my humble opinion, that's why Hiroshima is so beloved and why it continues to pack venues, get air-play and sell albums for thirty years. While the temptation no doubt has been there to become more commercial, especially in the last fifteen years, Hiroshima has instead deepened its commitment to be an authentic and relevant shaper of the American music scene. In my religious tradition it is said that one can gain the whole world but it may cost you your soul. I believe with all my heart that the main reason for Hiroshima's staying power is that it has never lost its soul."
Lifelong fan of Hiroshima
– Rev. Dr. Ken Fong,
Senior Pastor, Evergreen Baptist Church of Los Angeles
"Hiroshima celebrates the multiculturalism of America in the 21st century. As a vibrant part of the Asian American movement, Hiroshima has always been there to inspire social activists with their message of peace and hope."
– Margaret Fung,
Executive Director AALDEF
I am proud to say that I have had the honor or touring, recording and having the members of Hiroshima become my all time close friends and family.
Because of the many years of making music Hiroshima has contributed a span of 30 years of original, creative, beautiful, exciting, visually stimulating music. The group’s music has managed to cross different styles incorporating Japanese traditional sounds with western grooves and Latin rhythms all geniously combined by the group’s leader Dan Kuramoto and the members of the band.
June Kuramoto has given the band it's undeniable signature sound and the other band members have brought the other elements that have made the great lasting band that exist today.
I congratulate my brothers and sisters on their 30th anniversary and I look forward to many more years of great music.
God Bless
– Richie Gajate Garcia,
Percussionist, Educator, Clinician
From the first time I heard "Lion Dance" on KJLH back in 1979, Hiroshima arrested my imagination with its singular sonic blast of Urban World Music - whisking the pan-cultural reality of Los Angeles on a magic carpet glide toward global harmonization.
The mere thought of koto, taiko and sax over a Funk-Swing bottom makes
me ravenous for chitlin tamales, a Moo Goo Gai Pan Gyro, Vinegar Chips and Salsa, sweet potato croissants, and a carafe of Sake Bomb Sangria. Go figure . . .
Much respect to you, Dan and June, and ALL members of Hiroshima - past, present and future,
– A. Scott Galloway ,
Writer and Editor
Hiroshima is one of the most wonderful and tasteful group of musicians and good friends I've had in the music industry. I love them all and their music. Their influence on the Asian community and the jazz field are most profound. I usually don't listen to most of the records I've performed on but they are the exception. Dan and June have made me feel as if I were a part of their family. My best wishes to the group on such an important anniversary.
Love to you all.
– Jim Gilstrap,
Legendary Background Vocalist
I first discovered the music of Hiroshima in 1989 while attending the Telluride Jazz Festival. From the moment the band began to play as one with such power and passion, I was hook as fan. Later in life I became a friend and strong supporter of their music through my radio program. Dan, June, Kimo, Dean, Danny, Johnny, Shoji, along with the countless players and vocalist who have contributed to the music of Hiroshima, I thank you for the life long experience.
Congratulations on your 30 year journey and much success on the 2010 tour.
– Ric Gould,
Host Producer, Sunday Morning Jazz Radio Program
I have known the members of Hiroshima for well over 15 years. They are a group of musicians dedicated to not only making the best music, but are committed to being as compassionate, humble and giving as they can be. In the mid nineties, the world famous Apollo Theater was going through a financial crisis. Although they are from the west coast, Hiroshima was the only group that volunteered to do a benefit for the landmark New York venue. They planned it in such a way so that they could fit this special performance into their tour of the east coast. I was honored to have been asked to be their opening act. At the end of their performance, they still took time to “hold court” for a group of youngsters who had attended the concert. Most other performers would have a “ok we outta here” attitude. But not them. They felt obligated to impart whatever wisdom, encouragement and knowledge they could provide to these young people.
Most groups disband after 2, 5, maybe 10 years. To coin a cliché, they have stood the test of time with a bare minimum of personnel changes. I personally am honored to be able call them personal friends. I just hope that I can record with them before the next 30 years are up.
CONGRATULATIONS to my good friends of Hiroshima.
– Onaje Allan Gumbs,
Jazz Pianist, Producer, Composer
30 years!!!!! That pretty much says it all. Ever since a mutual friend of Dan and June’s introduced me to their music, and these two wonderful souls, back in the mid- eighties, I’ve been sold on their beautiful talents, their wonderful music, and the consistency of recordings I’ve known to be Hiroshima.
Persevering throughout this ever – changing musical conundrum for 30 yrs. speaks volumes about their musical identities, and to how they touch their many adoring fans. I should know because I am one of them.
Congratulations to my dearest [Hiroshima] friends on your 30th Anniversary!!! It’s truly a great honor and pleasure for me to perform and record with you in the past. Your unique style has being enriched, inspired all the Jazz and other music world. You are the pioneers of the Fusion Jazz. You are the bridge, the role model of all crossover cultures!! Thank you for bringing the peace, love, harmonic, and the uniqueness together to this world! You are truly the MASTERS!!!
All the Best and warmest wishes to your successful Legacy Tour!!
– Karen Han,
er-hu
Hiroshima is East meets West . . . traditional folk instruments meet technology ancient art meets contemporary jazz. Hiroshima is quintessentially American, a blend of people and cultures working together to create something unique, enduring, and enriching. Hiroshima’s many fans in the City and County of Honolulu, join me in congratulating these exceptional artists on 30 years of wonderful music. “One Wish” will always remain one of my all-time favorites!
– Mufi Hannemann,
Mayor of Honolulu
God bless you both Dan and June, as well as the rest of the Hiroshima band. May you continue to bless us for another 30 yrs. with your wonderful music.
– Much Love, Your friend, Everette Harp,
Jazz Musician
“For the past 30 years, the band Hiroshima has created a legacy of bridging cultural divides through the power of music. The band embodies the global community with a diverse fusion of musical and cultural styles, and a diverse crowd of followers. Exemplary in leadership and influence, Hiroshima is raising the profile of Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders throughout the music world, and contributing to the richness of American culture. It is my hope that bands like Hiroshima are no longer the anomaly but the norm. Congratulations on thirty years and counting.”
– Michael Honda,
U.S. Representative (D-CA)
While remaining dedicated and rooted to “community”, Hiroshima has been the forerunner and pacesetter for Asian American music by popularizing taiko and koto into the mainstream music scene. They inspired our group, San Jose Taiko, to create original music (just like Hiroshima!) from our culturally hybrid American experiences, to stir the soul and empower the human spirit. Thank you, Hiroshima, for sharing the joy of life through your music!
– Roy & PJ Hirabayashi,
San Jose Taiko
I've been friends with the band for over a decade. They've been and continue to be supportive of me as I strive to develop as a musician. Not only are they great musicians, but they are genuine, caring individuals who have generously given to our community and represent us with pride. I remember inviting June Kuramoto to one of my shows at the JACCC, offering to put her on the guest list. She didn't respond, but showed up and BOUGHT a ticket because she wanted to support me and the theater!
– Aloha, Daniel Ho,
Multi Grammy Award-winning composer, musician, producer
When Hiroshima’s first album was released, I felt a wave of admiration and pride that a group of Asian American artists was playing world-class music that celebrated our shared experiences and reached across lines of race and culture. Thirty years later, I am even more impressed at how their musicianship, courage and cultural explorations have only grown and deepened over the decades. Hiroshima was on the cutting-edge thirty years ago, and the band has never stopped innovating; they inspire me as musicians, artists, and Asian Americans.
– David Henry Hwang,
Multi Award-winning Playwright
Crusin’ J-Town, Kokoro, Winds of Change, Thousand Cranes, and so many others, have served as the spiritual anthems of the Sansei generation. They are as much as anything else, that which defines us.
– Rinban Noriaki Ito,
Los Angeles Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple
Always there since the beginning. You have open so many doors here and abroad. Thanks for the inspiration.
– Mark Izu,
Jazz Bassist and Composer
“In a musical era where our “stars” are now manufactured and music has been reduced to a small digital file, Hiroshima stands tall as one of the very few survivors who have managed to overcome all the industry turmoil through the years. Their complete originality and ability to withstand the pressures of a biased industry, shows a determination that only truly talented professionals have. Hiroshima is the real thing and that is why they are able to celebrate 30 years of recording success. In an entertainment industry where Asian Americans are barely represented, Hiroshima remains a true pioneer! I salute them for being among the very first and for opening the doors for so many other minorities. This is an amazing milestone, both musically and culturally! CONGRATULATIONS! And in the words of the late Richard Pryor, “You don’t get to be this old, by bein’ no fools!”
– Blue Johnson,
Tour Manager and Original Manager of Seawind
Hiroshima is more than a band making music. Hiroshima is a 30 year cultural force, redefining our views on jazz, race and ethnicity through its unique form of sonically driven social activism. Long may you run, band Hiroshima.
– Philip Kan Gotanda,
Award-winning Playwright and Educator
I went to Hiroshima's first concert in Osaka back in 1981, during their first tour to Japan in my early 20s. Nearly 30 years have passed and now I became 52.
I can say I am a big fan of June Kuramoto (and original member Dave Iwataki.) My favorite albums are June's Spirit and Soul as well as The Way of Tea by June and Derek Nakamoto.
My Berkeley friend Anthony Brown once toured to Hong Kong with June Kuramoto. Anthony said to me that June was an excellent musician and I agree with him.
I feel like I have been growing up with Hiroshima.
– Minoru Kanda
Correspondent for Asian Improv Arts (SF), Asian Improv Midwest
To me, there are few things as thrilling and enjoyable as a Hiroshima concert. Their music is one of those magical things that bring people together, regardless of their background.
I am very grateful for Hiroshima’s long relationship with the Japanese American National Museum. They performed at our Family Expo in 1994 and at the opening of our Pavilion in 1999. They always make every occasion special and memorable. Every day, visitors who come to the Japanese American National Museum hear Hiroshima’s music as part of our unique eight-screen video presentation, “J-Town Rhapsody”, that appears in our exhibition, Common Ground: The Heart of Community. After 10 years, I still stop and watch and listen to that presentation and it inspires me.
I want to congratulate Hiroshima on their 30th Anniversary Legacy Tour and thank them for all they have done for our community and for music in general.
– Akemi Kikumura Yano,
Japanese American National Museum, Executive Director
While the world has only recently come to embrace Asian fusion as it pertains to food, Hiroshima has for 30 years already been nourishing us with musical fusion that is comfort food for the heart and soul.
Their music has come to embody those immortal universal truths that sustain human kind-love, connection, peace. The evocative emotions that are so passionately part of their melodies resonate in a way that transcends across cultures, east, west, north, south.
Not surprisingly, Hiroshima's strength and stamina is born of the dynamic cohesion and diversity of its individually talented members. To return to food for a moment, the spicy, sweet, salty, tangy, buttery, sparkly personalities of Hiroshima (and you know who you are) make up the depth of tasty flavors that has the listener begging for more.
The world is truly the better because of Hiroshima and their sharing of their gifts. They have never forgotten their roots in their community, their loyalty to their fans and respect for legacy of the great American music tradition that they have become a part of. For that we should be forever grateful.
Thanks, Dan, June, Kimo, Danny, Dean, Shoji and the Hiroshima family past, present and future.
– David L. Kim,
Chief of Staff, United States Mint
"The Hiroshima Band, like its namesake, rose anew out of a devastated people. Sprouting and growing in a single generation to reassert its rightful place in American soil. And this, with a sound rooted in two traditions - one ancient and one new. Forty years of growth, providing music for our revived dance. Thank you and congratulations."
– Gassho, Rev. Masao Kodani,
Senshin Buddhist Temple
Listening to Hiroshima brings back fond memories, for one reason because we both started our career about the same time on Arista records They're an inventive and unique band who brings their ethnic influences into focus with both a panoramic almost symphonic orchestration and also a sense of jazz improvisation and swing that is unmistakable.
The way the koto is incorporated into their mix so naturally lies that the heart of their appeal and success.
It's great to see them celebrate 30 years and I hope to see many more.
– Jeff Lorber,
Jazz Keyboardist, Producer, Composer
Ours are serpentine roads. No one travels from stars to dust without passing through the landscape of another’s struggles, victories, regrets or quests. For thirty years Hiroshima has greeted us at every portal, encouraging us to neither veer past the gargoyles nor feel obligated to worship at the monuments. All are welcomed. All are fed. Put on a Hiroshima record – an old word for timeless evidence – and you travel sated. You want to visit again, your eyes widened, your primal palate craving the elegant tang of something not yet imagined. Somewhere old. None but these stellar musicians painting from a palette so extraordinary can make us celebrate our own exquisitely flawed humanity this way. This is Hiroshima.
– Diane Louie,
Arranger, Composer, Producer for Film, Theater, Television and Recording
It’s almost impossible to describe who they are, what they have done and what they have meant to the music world and the Asian Pacific American community. I can only tell you that no one had ever heard or played music like this before Hiroshima. It is the essence of an Asian Pacific American culture. It is a gift to our community. And it is a gift to this country.
– Dale Minami,
Thurgood Marshall Awardee, Attorney and Human Rights Activist
"It's been an honor and privilege to have known Dan and June for a number of years now. Hiroshima music is a unique mix of musical influences culminating in what can only be called Pacific Rim . . . Truly one of a kind."
– Skip Mesquite,
Former Member of Tower of Power, Cold Blood and Electric Flag
I have been lucky to have known Dan & June Kuramoto for over 35 years. I take my hat off to Hiroshima for their vision, ingenuity, and determination in bringing an Asian sensibility to Jazz. It has been an important contribution in making Jazz a global language. I wish them many more years of making beautiful music.
– James Moody,
Jazz Legend, NEA Jazz Master
I am honored to have been a member of the Hiroshima family for the last thirty years. They are all wonderful friends and fantastic musicians! Their music is inspired by a blend of the multi cultural influences that permeate America, from traditional Japanese, to Latin, to American Jazz and Rhythm and Blues. Needless to say, it’s been a fantastic experience to record and mix their songs. Hiroshima, thank you! Here’s to thirty more years!
– Don Murray ,
Multi-Grammy Nominated Recording/mix Engineer
“Hiroshima is still the only Asian American band that is performing today. Keeping the band alive after all these years is pretty awesome. I am glad to have had the opportunity to perform a few of their concerts.
Continue to keep the Asian American music scene happening for up and coming Asian musicians…”
–Tetsuya “Tex” Nakamura,
Harmonica player, formerly with the band, War
“Hiroshima—my heartfelt appreciation for your artistic contributions over the years of amazing music, but also much respect and love to you for your continued commitment to empowering the Asian American community across the country! “
The fact that Hiroshima is celebrating their 30th anniversary speaks volumes about their creativity, their tenacity and their unique ability to adapt and give audiences a style of music that we Asian Americans, can call our own. They have successfully crossed over into the mainstream and introduced traditional Asian instruments, mixed with a contemporary jazz fusion sound, and given the world of music a gift, a gift that unwraps with each new album.
– Lane Nishikawa,
Actor, Writer, Film producer
I remember Hiroshima when it played every Thanksgiving holiday for the students and community at California State University Long Beach way back in the 1970s. Dan and June and the entire crew were important troubadours of the Asian American Movement, inspiring many young people [and some older folks like us on the faculty] to integrate academics and politics with beauty and culture.
– Franklin Odo,
Smithsonian Institute
"Your unique blend of jazz with an Asian flair makes you stand out above the rest. You have left your imprint on modern American jazz and have been such a positive influence to the Asian American community. Congratulations Hiroshima!"
– Yuji Okumoto,
Actor
“Hiroshima has always led the way in Jazz Fusion along with Humanitarian efforts. Their music has brought pleasure to all world communities. “
– Teddy Pendergrass,
R&B Legend
Whenever cultures have come together, there’s a struggle that takes place, but not, in the musical cultures of Hiroshima. The balance of melody, harmony, and the blend world rhythms come together in this unique style of music that has created, a sound of music that simply displays an example of how united all cultures can be as one.
– Land Richards
Drummer, Producer
Hiroshima finds themselves at the pantheon of Contemporary Jazz for obvious reasons. Fearless improvisation on any given theme, global consciousness long before it was a trend, personal integrity, uncompromising musical standards and the notion that tomorrow will reveal their best work. Their rich cultural contribution to the Pan Asian musical tapestry has captured the hearts and imaginations of fans around the world and fostered peace through a deeper appreciation of Jazz… from a completely unique perspective.
– Cameron Smith,
My Jazz Network
“Congratulations, HIROSHIMA, on 30 years of musical excellence! Being a small part of your incredible music Legacy is an amazing honor and privilege. And witnessing your creative brilliance first-hand is truly an inspiration!”
–Terry Steele,
Grammy Nominated, Singer/Songwriter
“As a Korean adoptee growing up in Indiana, my twin sister and I were always hungry for anything "Asian American." We desperately sought out role models and in Hiroshima, we found them. I remember watching them play for the first time at a venue called Cubby Bear in Chicago.
Not only was the music great, but seeing them perform live was so empowering! I remember Dan Kuramoto emceeing the show and among his engaging narrative he scattered bits and pieces of what it’s like to be Asian American. The mostly non-Asian Audience embraced what he had to say, and in a sense I felt like they were embracing me. . . . I thought, how cool. To this day, I remember how I walked out of the club with a swagger in my step and my head held high with pride! Not only had Hiroshima provided me with great music that night, but great pride and love for who I am as an Asian American. That’s what great music is all about.
-– Courtni Sunjoo Pugh,
Executive Director, SEIU California State Council
“As someone who has followed the career of the members of Hiroshima since their beginnings as college students in the late 1960s, I have been impressed with not only their staying power over the past three decades, but also with the enormous impact they’ve had on American culture. By becoming a world-class band, they forever destroyed the stereotype of Asian Pacific Americans as non-creative nerds who were only good at computer games. Moreover, their musical creativity and innovation have been strongly complemented by their political consciousness and deep connections to the communities from which they came. They have truly enriched our culture and I happily join them in celebrating their 30th anniversary.”
— Bob Suzuki,
President Emeritus, Cal Poly Pomona
I had a long conversation years ago with a fellow Asian American Musician on the merits of Hiroshima’s contribution to Asian American Music and Art. This musician’s premise was that since the music and the band has been categorized and marketed in the pop genre, Hiroshima shouldn’t be included as part of the Asian American Music Movement and that inclusion should only be artists who have chosen a path that is opposite to what Popular Music and Art stand for. I strongly disagreed then and the 30 years that Hiroshima has endured substantiates my viewpoint. It sounded like sour grapes then and still does now. Hiroshima- from its inception, is a symbol of a community based group in LA, a standard bearer of what Asian American music is, that has supported the community and the identity of Asian Americans –has evolved to become a group that is recognized internationally and has had great commercial success. Commercial success should never be a disqualifying factor in validating an art form. The body of work and the quality and the context of the work over time should determine the group’s validity. There is Pop Music and Art Music. There is Asian American Music and Art. Hiroshima is both, all of this and more. Congratulations to Hiroshima on 30 years of success! This also means you all are getting old like the rest of us!!!
– Akira Tana,
Jazz Drummer
"Hiroshima has navigated through three decades...always expanding the creative envelope, and providing a refreshing musical kaleidoscope during the journey. They are consummate musicians & human beings".
– Lawrence Tanter,
Radio Personality and Programmer
"Twenty five years ago, when I was a young TV news reporter in L.A., I wrote and produced a documentary about the social changes in the Asian American community. Part of that transformative time was Hiroshima’s ground-breaking work. The documentary featured the San Say video—which may have been the first time anybody had ever heard taiko on a news program—and an interview with Dan. What he said still resonates with me, “we’re an American band and we play American music. We’re not redefining American music but tapping into what’s already there. We’re utilizing our resources, our wealth and good fortune to be multicultural. That’s what America is all about.” I don’t know how much Dan thought of his music as political—sure it’s great music, that goes without saying, but I was so damn proud when that documentary aired because Hiroshima’s performance gave unequivocal voice to Asian American community. I listen to all the current, mellow stuff but I still can think of nothing better than driving the freeway with Odori full blast. Many thanks, Dan, June, Johnny and the band."
– Tritia Toyota,
Educator and Former News Anchor
Just as I create East-West cuisine, Hiroshima creates East-West music -- they take the instruments and traditions of Eastern and Western music and harmoniously blend them to create a fantastic whole. I've been a huge fan for years and am proud to say their beautiful music has been a part of all three of my cooking shows. SIMPLY MING would not be the same without Hiroshima's musical interpretation of the East meeting the West.
– Ming Tsai,
Chef, Owner of Blue Ginger and Host, Executive producer of Simply Ming
Having had the opportunity to produce the band on “Providence” I was able to see what a great musical family they are and how that informs all they do. It’s been especially rewarding to see my old friend from Hawaii, Kimo Cornwell grow into a fine musician/composer.
Hiroshima is truly one of a kind and my hats off to them for sustaining such a magical legacy - here’s to another 30 years!
– Larry Williams,
Producer, Arranger Original Member of Seawind
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