We were lucky to catch up with Takuro Tsubaki recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Takuro, thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
After graduating from high school, I had convinced myself that considering my family circumstances, pursuing a general degree at a university, and securing a stable job would be a good choice. However, my father told me “when you make an important decision that changes your life, choose what you really want to do. You don’t have to prioritize family concerns.” This advise inspired me to make the decision to pursue my own dreams. I know most parents would want their kids to have a safe and stable life. I really appreciate my family for believing in me and supporting me. I believe doing what I love and being happy is also a joy for my family. Although obtaining a stable income can be challenging as a musician, the joy derived from chasing my dreams outweighs that concern, and the emotional journey shared with my family holds precious significance for me. Therefore, I have no regrets about the choices I’ve made.
Takuro, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a professional bass player based in LA. I first picked up the bass at the age of 14, influenced by the musical atmosphere around me. My mom was a piano teacher, and my dad owns a record store, so music was in my DNA. Being surrounded by my parents’s musician friends, I witnessed the magic of their passion for music and have always admired them. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of performing alongside many talented musicians across Japan and the United States. What sets me apart isn’t just technical proficiency but a commitment to creating a moment of captivating musical experience. For me, music is a team effort within the band, allowing us to engage in a musical conversation with each other while playing. When a band inspires each other and dedicates themselves to creating a moment, the possibilities become boundless.
Entering the music industry is a manifestation of my deep passion for expressing myself through music. Whether it’s live performance, recording, or songwriting, I aim to speak up and connect with people on a deep level through the power of music. I take pride in solving creative challenges for my clients, infusing each performance with a mix of skill and emotion.
My work is a genuine reflection of my dedication to the art. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that when they engage with music, they’re not just getting a performance. They’re joining a journey of shared emotions and experiences. It’s about creating something unforgettable, and I’m looking forward to that journey with everyone who comes along for the ride.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My creative journey is driven by the desire to be able to have a conversation and intimately share emotions with people. The art of playing music serves as a vessel, allowing me to share each of our human experience, creating a deep and meaningful connection with the listeners. It’s not only about transcending mere performance, but creating an experience that resonates on an emotional level, touching the very core of our shared humanity.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
While there are many resources that have benefited me over the years, the one I wish I knew earlier for my creative spirit is the beauty of nature. I used to think that I had to spend all of my time working on my craft, but when I finally let go of that, I got introduced to the wonderful act of going on a hike. It’s my enchanting way to recharge and find balance. Spending time in nature and engaging in physical activity during a hike has this amazing way of uplifting my mental well-being. It’s like hitting the reset button amidst the chaos of the bustling city like Los Angeles and Tokyo. I have this secret trail where only the sounds of trees, water, and birds surround me. It’s a place where the clamor of the city fades away, and I find resilience in disconnecting from the sleepless city life. Amidst nature’s vastness, even my troubles seem small. It’s in those moments, walking through the trails and embracing the beauty of the nature, that I’ve found the connection to the earth.
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Image Credits
Nick Müller Aeson Rose Mio Matsuda