Japanese guitarist Ichika Nito has visited the Philippines several times and has fallen in love with the country’s culture, food, music and people.
“I love Philippine culture – its music, food and people. I’ve found Filipino people to be very kind. I enjoy talking with them and I also love Filipino food, especially the raw, spicy fish (kilawin),” he told The STAR during “Tsudoi’26 Philippines edition – Music Way Project,” a music networking event that was organized by the Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA) and Toyota group, at The Astbury, Makati City. He showcased his guitar prowess during the program, which was also attended by Lola Amour, executives from CEIPA and the global networking platform Gig Life Pro, along with music professionals and artists.
In 2023, Ichika collaborated with Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin on the track Reflection. He has also expressed admiration for the music of Ben&Ben.
Although there’s no lineup of upcoming shows in the Philippines yet, Ichika said he would love to come back and perform for Filipino audiences.
He also appreciated the anime and manga fans who came to know the Japanese sound through such shows.
“There are a lot of anime and manga fans around the world and it’s a great way for people to discover Japanese music through that culture,” he shared.
According to his profile on his website, the guitar soloist and composer draw inspiration ranging from Bill Evans, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Joe Hisaishi and Iron Maiden. Ichika is “recognized internationally for his innovative approach to guitar expression — he has developed a unique playing style and a beautifully melancholic tone that has earned him a passionate global fanbase.”
He had worked with international guitarists, such as Tim Henson (Polyphia) and Marcin, and co-wrote and co-arranged more than life by Grammy Award-winning artist Machine Gun Kelly with Travis Barker.
Five years ago, he became the first Japanese artist to release a signature guitar model with Ibanez, as stated in his bio.
He launched his debut album “The Moon’s Elbow” early this year which includes Where I Begin, Lost Stars, Echo feat. Nakajin, we weren’t, were we?, should’ve cried, in your quiet feat. Yvette Young, Where I Return, among others.
Ichika is thrilled about the second edition of Music Awards Japan, set for June 13 at the Toyota Arena Tokyo.
“By creating this kind of opportunity, it helps connect Japanese music in a much more powerful way,” he said about the upcoming event, which is anchored on the concept of “Connecting with the World and Illuminating the Future of Music.”
Last year, Filipino funk-pop-rock band Lola Amour’s smash hit Raining in Manila was recognized at the inaugural Music Awards Japan International Special Award for Popular Music (Philippines) in partnership with the Awit Awards.
Music Awards Japan executive director and CEIPA executive committee’s Taro Kumabe stated during Tsudoi’26 event that he was “deeply moved by the immense energy generated by the exchange between the music scenes of the two nations today.”
“CEIPA is dedicated to the development of Japanese industry. We also hold the highest respect for the incredible talent across Asia. Of course, here in the Philippines, like Lola Amour. We are committed to learning from you and building a platform together with this talent that can truly resonate globally,” he added.