Hiroshima is an American jazz fusion band formed in 1974 by Sansei Japanese American Dan Kuramoto (wind instruments and band leader), June Kuramoto (koto), and Johnny Mori (percussion and taiko). The band incorporates Japanese instruments in its music and has sold over four million albums around the world. Hiroshima’s leader, Dan Kuramoto, is from East Los Angeles and attended California State University, Long Beach, then led its Asian-American studies department. Through playing in a band on weekends, he met June Kuramoto, a native of Japan who grew up in Los Angeles and played koto, a Japanese stringed instrument.
Hiroshima’s discography includes several albums and singles, including their self-titled debut album, Hiroshima, Odori, and Third Generation. Their best-known singles include “Winds of Change,” “One Wish,” and “Thousand Cranes.” Their music is characterized by a blend of smooth jazz, R&B, pop, and world music, and their use of Japanese instruments adds a unique flavor to their sound.
Hiroshima has received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career, including the Visionary Award by East West Players for the band’s “Impact on the Asian American community and the world.” The band has also performed at prestigious venues such as the Hollywood Bowl and the Montreux Jazz Festival.
In 2023, Hiroshima will perform at select tour dates in Temecula, CA and Atlanta, GA. The band remains a respected and influential musician in the jazz fusion genre and continues to captivate audiences with their unique sound and style.
