Kari Kahimi Japanese musician in the Shibuya-kei style. Date of Birth: 15.03.1968 Country: Japan

1. Childhood and Early Life
2. Education and Early Career
3. Solo Career and Rise to Fame
4. Collaborations and Shibuya-kei Legacy
5. International Recognition
6. Personal Life

Childhood and Early Life

Kahimi was born into a medical family in Utsunomiya, Japan. Growing up with strict parents, she was deprived of many forms of entertainment. However, she found solace in the music of Serge Gainsbourg during her teenage years.

Education and Early Career

After graduating from high school, Kahimi moved to Tokyo and enrolled in a photography college. Upon graduating, she briefly worked as a freelance photographer. In 1990, she made her debut as a singer in a duet with Takako Minakawa called Fancy Face Groovy Name.

Solo Career and Rise to Fame

Kahimi's first solo album, "Mike Alway's Diary," was released in 1994. Produced by renowned Japanese musician Cornelius, the album gained popularity in Europe, particularly in France. The album's success was aided by the widely publicized romantic relationship between Kahimi and Cornelius.

Collaborations and Shibuya-kei Legacy

Kahimi has collaborated extensively with English musician Momus, who wrote many of her early songs. She also has a close working relationship with Japanese DJ Cornelius, who released several of her EPs on his Trattoria label in the mid-1990s. Kahimi's music falls under the genre of Shibuya-kei, an eclectic blend of Japanese pop, rock, and electronica.

International Recognition

Kahimi's popularity in Europe has led to extensive touring. She has performed in various countries, further solidifying her status as an international icon.

Personal Life

Kahimi has spent a significant amount of time in Paris throughout her career. She is currently based in Tokyo.