Yoshitane Obata

Mr. Obata balances dual careers in music and thatching. He formed a band with the daughter of Master Thatcher Nakano (current Chairman), and through this connection, he was introduced to the world of thatching. Visiting Miyama for music video shoots and staying in houses with thatched roofs, he gradually became captivated by the charm of thatching.

 

He finds a deep similarity between thatching and music: both are steeped in history and tradition, evolving over time while preserving their essence.

“I truly feel that both thatching and music are timeless and enduring.”

 

He is deeply moved by the process of creating thatched roofs using natural materials, and says the inspiration drawn from the sounds of nature greatly influences his music. “Both my thatching work and music are indispensable parts of my lifestyle,” he shares.

He even records natural sounds―such as the tapping on the thatched roofs and the rustling of grass in the wind―to incorporate as samples in his music.

 

Currently, he lives in the company dormitory located within the Kayabuki no Sato village. He enjoys a lifestyle close to self-sufficiency, including meals made with local brown rice and homemade miso, embracing harmony with nature while pursuing his creative activities and enriching his daily life.

 

“I want to share the appeal of thatching with as many people as possible. While continuing my music career, I hope to contribute to the community through my thatching work,” he says, expressing his hopes for the future.

 

Though music and thatching may seem like very different fields, his life shows how they can mutually inspire one another, creating a fulfilling lifestyle.

His unique way of living, surrounded by nature, may become an inspiration for many people in the years to come.