BEGIN is an acoustic band from Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, formed in 1988 by Eisho Higa, Yu Shimabukuro, and Hitoshi Uechi. They debuted in 1990 after appearing on the TBS audition show Ikasu Band Tengoku. They gained fame with hits like "Nada Sousou"(2002) and "Shimanchu nu Takara" (2002) and have performed at the NHK Red and White Singing Contest. Originally a hard rock band, they shifted to blues-inspired music after early setbacks. Their unique blend of Okinawan music with other genres has won them widespread acclaim. Their performance of "Koishikute"(1990) on the TV show earned them the title of Ikaten King, surpassing the band NORMA JEAN. BEGIN also actively engages in community and cultural events, starting Uta no Hi Concert in Okinawa in 2001 to commemorate the island's music. Their 20th and 25th anniversaries were celebrated with major concerts in Okinawa and major cities in Japan, reinforcing their cultural and musical significance. In 2018, they released new singles "Band o Kumo yo" and "Tonde Hi ni Iru Hara no Mushi" which were used in radio and drama respectively. Their 30th anniversary in 2019 saw the release of their best-of album Gajumaru Best. Their song "Begin no Bon Marusha"(2024) continues their tradition of infusing Okinawan sounds into mainstream music, celebrating their musical journey and cultural roots.
