Meet May Inoue, the remarkable young Japanese jazz guitarist known for his electrifying sound and dynamic career. Hailing from Kawasaki in Kanagawa, May's journey into jazz began at just 15 years old inspired by a Mike Stern concert. He later honed his craft at Berklee College of Music and has since garnered recognition from legendary guitarists like Kazumi Watanabe and Kurt Rosenwinkel. Leading the innovative band project Stereo Champ, May skillfully fuses jazz, rock, funk, and psychedelic elements, offering a unique and refreshing musical journey. Despite a five-year hiatus, his latest release, "The Elements," has been well received.
In today’s chat James and May discuss pivotal moments such as May's transformative experiences as a youth, his early rock guitar influences, and the profound impact of studying under renowned jazz guitarist Yoshiaki Miyanoue. May reflects on his Berklee College of Music experience, the confidence boosts from his debut album's acclaim, and the evolution of his genre-blurring band project, "Stereo Champ." The pair also delve into May's latest album, "The Elements,". May shares insights on managing a busy schedule and collaborations, his perspective on the global jazz scene, future aspirations, and valuable advice for aspiring musicians seeking unconventional sounds in their work.
Connect with May Inoue:
Website // Instagram // Twitter
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