Nifē dēbiru to Paul for the yuntaku!
Far Side Music Ltd., founded by Paul Fisher in Japan in 1991, has become a vital hub for promoting Okinawan, Japanese and Asian music globally. Initially intended as a short-term stay, Fisher's 11 years in Japan led him to recognize a gap in the market for 'undiscovered' music, prompting him to launch his own sales initiative. The company now manages various artists, organizing record releases and tours while also licensing and exporting world music into Japan. Notable projects include the Far Side Music label, which has released acclaimed albums by artists such as Abdul Tee-Jay and OKI, as well as collaborations with independent Japanese labels through Rice Records (UK).
In addition to music sales and artist management, Fisher has made significant contributions as a broadcaster and journalist. He hosts Far Side Radio, showcasing music from East Asia and beyond, while also writing for publications like fRoots magazine and the Japan Times. His extensive compilation work includes notable titles for the Rough Guides series, highlighting the rich musical diversity of the region. Through these endeavors, Far Side Music Ltd. continues to enrich the global music landscape with its dedication to Asian sounds and artists.
In this podcast, we talk about Paul's journey in the world music industry, highlighting his pioneering work in introducing Okinawan and other East Asian music to Western audiences. Initially involved in pop music management, Fisher's career shifted profoundly after he explored global roots music in the 1980s. His experiences in Japan, especially in rural Kumamoto, led him to discover the vibrant, evolving traditions of Okinawan music. He was instrumental in popularizing artists like Shokichi Kina and bands such as Nenes and Rinken Band, bridging the gap between local traditions and international audiences.
Fisher's efforts went beyond distribution; he fostered collaborations between Okinawan musicians and global artists, showcasing how traditional music could blend with contemporary styles. His work highlights Okinawa's unique musical ethos—a constantly evolving tradition enriched by external influences, from American blues to Indonesian rhythms. Through his label and mail-order catalogues, Fisher not only preserved this heritage but also amplified it globally, leaving a lasting impact on the perception of world music.
2011 Interview with J-Melo on NHK World: https://bit.ly/3OEOfOr
About Far Side Music: https://bit.ly/4f5A53F
Far Side Music: https://bit.ly/3BigrDB
Far Side Radio: https://bit.ly/4f3iRDO
Far Side Music (Other Services): https://bit.ly/4f6e7xo
Far Side Music (Blog): https://bit.ly/3ZF1EfG
We’d also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Harikuyamaku from Uchinā, Loochoo, for granting us access to his beautifully remixed timeless tracks from the Mystic Islands Dub album. His soulful music adds a unique touch to our podcast, enriching the listening experience for all of you. Nifē dēbiru, Harikuyamaku!
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Mystic Islands Dub album: https://buff.ly/4e9irMn
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