Most relevant for us, dear reader, Tak is the leader and founding member of B'z. Without Tak, there would be no B'z. Tak has been churning out melodies for the duo since their debut in 1988 and plying his skills as a top guitarist. Into this mix go his personal charms as well, giving additional character to B'z. Unfortunately, Tak is sometimes underappreciated by fans, especially female fans. This is largely due to the radiant beauty of his younger bandmate, which outshines the majority of the population anyway, and is thus not in any way a poor reflection upon Tak's own appearance!

For 15 years, Tak has co-existed peacefully with this Inaba beauty. After all, he treats Ko-chan like a younger brother, and he admits wanting to find someone with decent looks when he was first searching for a vocalist. Although I am pleased to report that among many fans, Tak appreciation has been on the rise, the following cautionary tale must still be told...

(Faithfully passed from Keen to TJ to me)
A Tale of Kumamoto
Once upon a time, or about 10 years ago, B'z held a live in the city of Kumamoto. This city had a reputation for being "tough," as in having a tough audience. Between songs, Tak stepped up to the mic for an MC session. However, the crowd ignored him and shouts of "Inaba-san!! Inaba-san!!" filled the air. After a while, Tak just stopped and they abruptly started to play the next song. For the next 10 years, B'z did not grace Kumamoto with their presence again. Not until 2003's 15th anniversary tour was Kumamoto once more placed on the tour list. My theory is that the anniversary was a joyous occasion and thus a good time to forgive all. Still, you don't want B'z to boycott your city for 10 years, do you? Certainly not! So.....it's wise to avoid Kumamoto-ing! ~~~~Finito~~~~

"That I can make my living from music today is my greatest happiness."

Oh, Mat-chan! Tak's gentle, sleepy-eyed demeanor conceals a drive and focus that have led him from days as an enthralled young lad practicing guitar in his room to the top of the Japanese music industry as one of the most respected producer/musicians in the country. His hobbit size belies his stature as a guitarist. And his stoic expression on TV hides his general gleeful fussiness towards...everything. Who is this Matsumoto-san? Who is Osaka Diva?

As mentioned on the intro page, one thing for which Tak is quite famous is that he is the only Asian, and one of only five people in the world, to have his own signature Gibson guitar model. If you're a non-guitarist like me, perhaps this doesn't mean so much at first. So let me explain that first, Gibson is a legendary manufacturer of guitars. Secondly, the other four people who have signature Gibson models are: Ace Frehley (KISS), Joe Perry (Aerosmith), Slash (Guns and Roses), and Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin). You may have heard of these extremely famous bands before. Modest Tak has no problems holding his own in such company. In addition, Tak is the only one to have two signature models, and both are best sellers. Very impressive, and indicative of Tak's influence and popularity! B'z are definitely one of Japan's best kept secrets. But they're getting more international exposure these days and it's well-deserved, because they are without doubt a world class act.

Now, I am a non-guitarist, or as I prefer to label it, guitar dumbazz, and am not qualified to write of Tak's technical expertise. However, I will say that Tak's presence in B'z songs complements Koshi's voice wonderfully and brings a special energy and atmosphere. Also, even I am able to sense that something quite amazing is going on in Tak solos in songs like Love is Dead, Giri Giri Chop and Liar! Liar!

As for Tak's songwriting abilities, well, I think he's fantastic. I know he has his influences, but I think B'z are good enough that what they do certainly deserves to stand on its own. In any case, so many of Tak's melodies have me addicted on the first listen, and he's experimented in a large variety of styles, from the unrelenting hard rock of DEEP KISS to the soft jazz-kissed Baby Moon. In his rich body of solo works Tak also explores different avenues, as he did recently in bringing a definite touch of the Orient into the romantic Hana album. Tak also sings in some of his solo ventures. Sadly, I have not yet collected all of Tak's solo works (am I Kumamoto-ing??), but two favorites are Go Further and Koi Uta; and my favorite Tak songs with Tak vocals are Zero Yori Zero Kara and the hysterical Don't Ask Me, Baby. Give them a try!

Tak has also collaborated with a number of different artists, including Misia (he wrote and played guitar for her hit "Don't Stop Music!"). And that long-running Music Station theme you hear every time? Yes, that's "Thousand Wave," composed and performed by Tak. Tak's latest solo offering is The Hit Parade, an album covering golden oldies in Japanese music, and featuring a number of guest vocalists, from Koshi to Kuraki Mai.

Tak has quite a personality you'd never guess from seeing him on the few TV appearances B'z make. Usually he lets Koshi handle the TV hosts while he nods and smiles or looks heii. However it's clear who is the boss, from the constant approval-seeking glances Koshi shoots at Tak while talking. At the same time, Tak is also actually quite funny and lively.

Let's put it another way: often, Tak is the laidback one lazily flopping around on couches and Koshi is the intense one deep in thought. And yes, Tak is the prankster interrupting Koshi's Japanese lessons with Shane, making fun of Koko's dancing, guzzling beer all day, complaining, pinching staff members, designing the ugliest B'z concert T I have ever seen, making his keitai ringtones his own songs, and recommending his own solo albums. Somehow he does this all in a very cute way. BUT, watch this laidback Tak pick up a guitar and -- Wham! He turns into authoritative Takboss. He can also snap into leader mode instantly, working with complete concentration, an air of command, and with as much of a perfectionist attitude as Koshi. Just watch him ask Koshi sing one phrase in F.E.A.R over and over again in The True Meaning of Brotherhood DVD.

Tak and Koshi walk into a Meet and Greet room. A few lucky and extremely nervous fans are waiting. One girl stammers that it's her birthday.
Koshi: *gives meltingly sweet smile, leans forward and whispers "Omedettou" in her ear*
Tak: OMAE!! *throws scornful look at Koko!* *leans forward and shouts* OMEDETTOU!!

As for Tak the live performer ~ the two signature moves are: the caveman stomp and the Osaka Diva pose, one arm raised high! (Oh, and that "Rei" kanji all over his equipment? That's the name of his daughter. Loving Papa Tak). Finally, in this intro, I just want to note that Tak speaks English, which he brushed up on during a stint in San Diego, at UCSD! He will be 43 years old on March 27! *copies Tak style* OMEDETTOU!! :)

Tak's Tip #101 for a Healthy Lifestyle

Ever mindful of his health, Tak drinks flu medication...even when he doesn't have the flu!
Koshi: But you don't have the flu!
Tak: Just a precaution!
Inabaka: *follows Tak's example*
A true story from Be With. Thanks to keen for the tip-off. They must have found a delicious tasting brand! ^^;
Yeah, now maybe Mat-chan should consider cutting down on the smokes and booze...:P What do ya say, Mat-chan?

Even on vacation, Tak's thoughts turn to work. Here he is backstage with his Gibson LP. Working hard, working hard!