Japanese band stuns everyone by playing perfect rendition of American country music

Music has the power to connect people living in different parts of the world, breaking the barriers of differing cultures, nationalities, creeds and races. The authentic American countryside Bluegrass tradition successfully traveled and has its roots established in far East Asian countries, including Japan. Among the several bands that have emerged in the island nation, a group called “Redbull”, originating from the Appalachian Mountains, has kept the tradition alive. Their wholesome performance at Rocky Top bar, located in Tokyo’s Ginza and shared on YouTube by @hirom52x, is winning the hearts, minds, and souls of music lovers.

Notably, Japan has a significant Bluegrass presence, with bands acing the Western musical style. In the widely circulated video, five cheerful musicians can be seen uplifting the spirits of bar-goers in the heart of Tokyo. They use string instruments like the guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and upright bass to recreate some classic melodies like “Fox on the Run” and “Blue Moon of Kentucky.”

Moreover, the “Redbull” band drew worldwide attention, with people online lauding it for the heartfelt rendition that is comparable to Paul McCartney's and Elvis Presley's. Including the typical elements of high-pitched vocals in close harmony with mountain music, square dance fiddling, and blues made the performance look effortless. Even though there is not much information available about the band members, at the same time, the internet is filled with several such videos of them performing.

Originally recorded in 2016, they showed the five faces of the Japanese band, including four men and one woman, aptly playing the rhythms of countryside America. Additionally, their knowledge of Bluegrass music falls no short of their inspiration, as per Reverb. According to PBS Learning Media, during the East Asian country’s occupation between 1945–52, the U.S. military’s radio network introduced Bluegrass, sparking Japan's enduring passion for the genre.

The Bluegrass music was liked by many for its high-energy and fast-tempo sound at the time. Breaking away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo’s busy streets, the music genre reportedly resonated with people due to its traditional and universal appeal. Furthermore, country music was gaining traction back home in America following World War II. With artists like John Denver, David Grisman, Bob Dylan, and Alan Lomax, the world was also beginning to notice these unique genres.

Upon seeing the growing Bluegrass music scene in Tokyo, several people began showering love in the comments section of the video. “The vibe of this place feels so inviting and warm. I truly wish I could experience it in person,” noted @benbetter2502. @chuckjeffery944 added, “The performance was excellent—well done to all of you! The presence of the lovely crowd dining added to the charm of the video. Please keep it up.” Several Native Americans echoed similar sentiments, lauding the band for what they described as an act that made their "hearts smile." "As a Kentuckian, it's incredible to think that Japanese musicians are performing our music. It's truly awesome," @DumpOnion remarked.

You can follow hirom52x (@hirom52x) on YouTube for more Bluegrass musical content.