FRIENDSHIP.

Ryo Hamamoto

Singer‑Songwriter / Guitarist / Multi‑Instrumentalist
Born in Japan, and briefly raised in the U.S. , Ryo Hamamoto first began writing, composing, and singing his own compositions in both Japanese and English around 2004. Since then, he has built a multifaceted musical career spanning solo work, live performances, collaborations, guest appearances, translations, and session work.
While his talents as a guitarist, ranging from playing blazing leads to layering delicate acoustic rhythm parts, have earned him recognition — notably through his involvement with bands like moools (2011‑2016) and his role as a regular support player for Analogfish since 2018 — Hamamoto’s essence is rooted in song. His focus is always on songwriting, structure, emotional honesty, and authenticity.
Hamamoto’s music spans styles from Americana and power pop to folk and alternative rock. His voice, warm and expressive, often carries both intimacy and gravitas. Melodies are lush, harmonies rich, but there is always space: space for reflection, subtle tension, and emotional resonance.

In addition to his musical work, Hamamoto has appeared in films, including Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s Shinmitsusa, and Naoki Kato’s 2045 Carnival Folklore, and Blood Echo.

More recently, his contemporary criticism and sociological essays, written from the perspective of a Japanese returnee, have also been highly acclaimed.

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