An Emotional Goodbye
On a poignant September 20th afternoon, the mellifluous tones of singer Naoki Sanada resonated through the air as he stood outside Miyako, a beloved record store that had been an integral part of its community since its establishment in 1964. With a bouquet of flowers in hand, the 33-year-old artist paid a heartfelt visit to the store on its final day of business. Miyako, which had been cherished by locals for over five decades, was closing its doors for good.
The End of an Era
Miyako’s enduring popularity was no accident; the warm and welcoming presence of its owners had attracted loyal customers day after day. Over the years, countless singers had graced the store with their music, leaving behind echoes of their talent. But as the sun set on this long-standing establishment, it marked the end of an era for this community staple, with plans to transition its business operations online.
Miyako’s Musical Legacy
Miyako earned its reputation for hosting traditional in-store singing campaigns, an institution initiated by the legendary singer Eisaku Okawa. For Naoki Sanada, who hails from Saitama, Miyako was not just a store; it was a place that treated him like family. The artist’s journey had come full circle, as he reminisced about his first visit to Miyako as a young aspiring singer and the store that had gifted him his very first cassette tape.
A Heartwarming Reunion
Naoki Sanada, who clinched the Best Newcomer Award at the 2020 Record Awards, had been unable to visit Miyako earlier due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, on August 20th, he returned to the store for an in-store campaign, leading to a touching reunion with the owners who had supported him from the very beginning. The heartfelt event is set to be broadcast on TV Asahi’s “Shinichi Hatori Morning Show” on the 21st.
Naoki Sanada’s Gratitude
Reflecting on his visit, Naoki Sanada shared his deep emotions, saying, “When I first heard the story, I was shocked. This is the store where I became a singer, and it was also here that I bought my first cassette tape. I aspired to become a singer, and this was my first campaign after becoming a professional.
Miyako was the one who let me sing.
“I am filled with gratitude to the president and my mom for taking care of me. I feel a bit sad to be left behind, but I will motivate myself and work hard on my singing so that I can repay the favor someday. I think so!”
Upcoming Releases and Tour
For fans eager to catch more of Naoki Sanada’s music, the artist has a treat in store. Scheduled for October 4, 2023, his next record release will feature the single “Drune Naeyo!”
Additionally, he will kick off a tour on the same day at Tokyo’s Asakusa Public Hall, ensuring an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts.
Don’t forget to tune in to TV Asahi’s “Shinichi Hatori Morning Show” at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 21st, to catch the heartwarming reunion and reminisce about Miyako’s cherished musical legacy. (TV Asahi Morning Show). Please note that program content may be subject to change due to live broadcasting.
Sources: THX News & Teichiku Entertainment Co., Ltd.
