tiny desk concerts JAPAN

Music

Station:
NHK World (JP)

Status:
Running

Start:
2024-03-29

Rating:
0/10 from 0 users

All you need is a small desk and musical instruments. NHK is launching a Japanese version of the worldwide phenomenon "tiny desk concerts," originally pioneered by American public broadcaster NPR. Set in the actual offices of NHK, the series will breathe new life into music as artists perform in a setting that is anything but ordinary.

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List of episodes

S2025E11 - Okamura Kazuyoshi

The unit formed by Okamura Yasuyuki and Saito Kazuyoshi makes its debut in the intimate "tiny desk" space inside the NHK office.
For this special session, they perform a one-take live set with a unique lineup of a full band and a quartet configuration.
At arm's length, the exchange between their vocals and guitars unfolds in real time, filling the room as pure, unfiltered sound.
Within the limited space, a simple yet powerful ensemble resonates.
Okamura's distinctive melodies intertwine with Saito's blues-inflected guitar, creating a vivid blend of spontaneity and warmth rarely experienced in large-scale live productions.
Rather than presenting a polished show, this tiny desk captures the very moments in which rock is formed—shared directly in the room with the audience.
The tension and energy that can only be felt at this close range are delivered just as they are.

Air Date: 27 Dec 2025 21:00 (CDT)

S2026E1 - Horigome Yasuyuki

Horigome Yasuyuki , formerly of the acclaimed band KIRINJI, appears on tiny desk concerts JAPAN
Joined by guest vocalist Toki Asako, he performs Aliens, a timeless masterpiece in J-POP history. Featuring a pedal steel guitar, this tiny desk original band arrangement beautifully enhances the lyrical richness and depth of his music.
In the intimate setting of the NHK office, the meticulous ensemble and the duo's harmonizing vocals shed new light on the classic track's enduring appeal. Enjoy this exclusive 30-minute session, available only here.

Air Date: 24 Jan 2026 21:00 (CDT)

S2026E2 - CHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN

One of Tokyo's most talked-about emerging trios,
CHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN, comes to tiny desk.
Drawing inspiration from traditional music around the world, the group blends global folk elements with electronics and contemporary beats. Their sound captures the spirit of different places and cultures, reshaping them into vibrant, border-crossing pop.
This special edition, tiny desk concerts JAPAN in schools, takes place at the trending "Geidai Room" of the Tokyo University of the Arts. Students and members of the local community gather for an intimate concert experience—bringing the tiny desk spirit into a uniquely Japanese setting.
The performance also features special guest artists:
Tabla virtuoso U-zhaan,
Ghanaian percussionist Nii Tete Boye,
and singer from Amami Ōshima, Hajime Chitose.
From the rhythms of India and the energy of Africa to the island songs of Amami Ōshima, diverse musical traditions converge in one unforgettable concert.
The room may be classroom-sized, but the sound is world-class.
Join CHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN on a special musical journey at tiny desk.

SET LIST
Gandhara feat. U-zhaan
Watatsumi
Cuba
Haiyā
tradition feat. Nii Tete Boye
Rokucho (Chichibu) feat. Hajime Chitose, Makioka Nami and Kaito

Air Date: 21 Feb 2026 21:00 (CDT)