Hibari

Misora Hibari was a famous enka singer and film star during my childhood.  She often presented a melancholy persona, and her fame was fed by rumors of a tragic life. Unlike Japanese contemporary singers, who mostly get by with hype and cute looks, Hibari had an amazing voice through which she enveloped her audience into her story.  LIstening to Kanashii Sake (Melancholy Drink), I am utterly moved by her ability to fill each syllable with meaning and pain.