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Ken' ichi Koshio
2217 N. Dayton St. Phoenix Az. 85006
602-412-7781(cell)
kenkoshio@hotmail.com

Ken Koshio was born in Nagoya, Japan, April 4th, 1966. As a singer and songwriter, he brings his wish for hope and new beginnings to the people of his adopted country, the United States. At age 20, Ken began to play his music in clubs in his hometown of Nagoya, and later in Toyko and throughout Japan. It was through his mission of reaching the greater audience by
playing on the streets that Ken's focus as a musician began to take shape.

In 1995, Ken made his first trip across the United States, travelling to, and playing Los Angeles, San Francisco, then to Chicago, New York, Key West, New Orleans, San Diego, then returning home to Nagoya.

During his travels, Ken was inspired by American musicans and the people he met along the way. At this time in his life, Ken was striving to perfect his music, and he saw that Americans were able to be themselves, being independant of others, making their own way in life. This encouraged Ken to go his own way with regard to his musical direction and personal vision.

While in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Ken watched and listened to very hip, elder African American jazz musicians, who had spent their lives dedicated to their own musical style. These elder statesmen of jazz had never achieved the personal popularity and notariety that spells musical sucess today. However, they do command respect by way of their presence, dignity and technical ability. The New Orleans musicians, in Ken's words, "blew him away" with their talent and pure love of music. It made him realize that as a musician, he may never reach the stature of some of today's more popular artists, yet he will always carry that depth, breath and love of music in his soul, sharing that musical vision with all those who choose to listen.

In 1998, Ken returned to the United States to refine his music and improve his english language skills. Ken began to play in and about Los Angeles, most frequently as "artist in residence" in such diverse places as Little Tokyo Village in downtown Los Angeles, Thai Town, and clubs and coffee houses across Southern California.

Ken's music touches the heart, mind and soul, moving those who listen, transporting the audience to a place within themsleves that is positive and self-transforming. Often, fans comment on the depth which with Ken plays, which has been said is a window to his soul.

Some influences Ken credits are Neil Young, Bob Dillon, and John Lennon. Additionally, Ken feels a deep spiritual connection to, and empathy for the American Indians of North America, often utilizing a flutist for American Indian styled music. While Ken continues to play the classic cover tunes, he is well known for his originals, and Japanese folk tunes.

After 9-11, Ken felt a need to bring comfort and closure to the families of the twin-towers tragedy. This wish translated itself into the Thousand Cranes Tour, which culminated in a concert for the victims families at ground zero on the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attack. For further information on
Ken's most recent tour and current gig's, please check out the current schedule and the link to the "Thousand Cranes Tour."