Haruomi Hosono releases 23rd solo album Yours Sincerely

Haruomi Hosono, a seminal figure in Japanese music, has released his 23rd solo album, marking another milestone in a career that spans more than six decades. Hosono first gained prominence in 1969 as a member of Happy End, the pioneering rock group that introduced Japanese-language lyrics to the genre; their track “Kaze wo Atsumete” later resurfaced on the *Lost in Translation* soundtrack. He subsequently helped shape the sound of electronic music as part of Yellow Magic Orchestra and contributed scores for films and video games, while his solo work has ranged from foundational city‑pop releases to ambient and exotica experiments. The new record, described as wilful, playful, and unpredictable, is rooted in the Japanese concept of omoiyari—compassion—and emphasizes warmth and positivity throughout its tracks.

The album opens with the reverie “Note of Mothership,” featuring a layered chorus chanting “we are mothers,” followed by the simple, enchanting melody of “Happy Holiday,” which repeats its title. “Sincerely” offers a sleepy, Leon Redbone‑style strum, exemplifying the record’s eclectic yet heartfelt approach. At 79, Hosono continues to influence contemporary artists, including Van Dyke Parks and Harry Styles, who named his 2022 album *Harry’s House* after Hosono’s 1973 solo work *Hosono House*. The release underscores Hosono’s enduring commitment to creating music on his own terms, reinforcing his status as a versatile and compassionate innovator in the global music landscape.