TAMIO YAMASHITA 
ABF CLUB [ MADE IN JAPAN ] // Every Sunday 22h CET (= 21h UTC)
Tamio Yamashita is a Japanese DJ, music producer, composer, percussionist, and innovator in electronic and contemporary music, born in 1971 on Tanegashima, a remote island in southern Kyushu known for its abundant nature. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of the sea, wind, and living creatures, this natural environment deeply influenced his auditory sensitivity and musical approach from an early age.
Early life & musical beginnings
In fourth grade, while listening to a radio program featuring Western music, Tamio discovered a new world that sparked his lifelong passion for music. He began playing drums in sixth grade and started composing during junior high school. He earned a percussion scholarship to a prestigious music school in Fukuoka, where he mastered the fundamentals of classical music and breath control. During high school, he won numerous gold medals in classical music competitions, establishing a strong technical foundation.
After high school, he worked as a percussion instructor, played in bands, performed as a DJ, and composed using DTM (Desktop Music). In 1992, he moved to New York, the epicenter of contemporary music, where he participated in jam sessions with renowned artists. His performances gained attention in the NY scene, refining his musical sense and versatility across genres.
Career in Japan & major milestones
Upon returning to Japan, Tamio continued as a DJ, music producer, and composer. He founded Japrican Sounds, a music production company that has created many popular songs, some featured in major films, TV commercials, and media projects. His expertise spans classical to club music, house, electro, anime soundtracks, and more — with several tracks achieving top sales on iTunes and Amazon, earning him widespread recognition.
In 2011, he launched A|X Music, the first official music label for A|X Armani Exchange Japan. As A|X Music Promoter, he produced music for numerous fashion shows, performed as DJ, and pioneered the fusion of music and fashion.
In 2020, he developed the world's first 5G sound system, enabling real-time DJ recording and studio mastering on a single PC. This breakthrough positioned him as a global pioneer in 5G audio technology. He has continued upgrading the system, integrating 5G with xR (extended reality) to blend natural, analog, and digital sounds — reviving the auditory sensitivity often lost in modern life.
That same year, he shifted focus to the UK, headlining a three-day music festival as the main house music DJ.
In 2021, he signed with the legendary New York label King Street Sounds (also known as Street King), releasing originals like "(Infinity) Only God Knows" feat. Hiro Fujiki (with remixes by HP Vince). In July 2021, one of his new tracks was included in the official Tokyo Olympics compilation album.
Recent activities & global impact
In 2022, Tamio expanded his worldwide presence through platforms like Mixcloud and SoundCloud, broadcasting regular weekend radio programs globally. He has also handled music branding for numerous Japanese brands.
Since 2020, he has been responsible for the music branding of the popular street café "STREAMER COFFEE COMPANY", launching "STREAMER SOUNDS TOKYO" — a project that continues to thrive.
In 2023, he consistently ranked in the top 3 of the UK Garage Chart on Mixcloud, setting records and maintaining strong momentum.
As of 2024–2026, Tamio Yamashita aims to create a new borderless world through music, drawing on his rich life experiences to express joy, fun, and love of life. His innovative 5G/xR sound solutions, genre-spanning productions, and international DJ sets continue to influence the global electronic and fusion music scenes.
Quote often linked to his vision: « Blending nature, analog, and digital to awaken forgotten auditory sensitivity. »
A true musical polymath and tech pioneer from the remote island of Tanegashima to the stages of New York, Tokyo, and London — Tamio Yamashita remains a leading force in redefining how we experience sound in the modern era.
