Kazuki Tokaji is a name you’ll want to remember. The Japanese-born guitarist, known for his melodic precision and expressive style, is currently tearing up stages across the U.S. with legendary glam rockers Enuff Z’Nuff. But that’s just the beginning.
With a solo show and guitar clinic lined up in Tokyo, plus a brand-new single, Tokaji is proving that guitar-driven music is alive and well.
We caught up with him mid-tour to chat about life on the road, his upcoming return to Japan, and the stories behind his sound.
Let’s start with the tour – you’re currently on the road with Enuff Z’Nuff. How’s that been?
Kazuki Tokaji: Touring with Enuff Z’Nuff has been an incredible experience. They’re true rock stars, both on and off stage, and being around that kind of energy really pushed me to step up my game.
The musicianship is top-notch, and just being in that environment has taught me so much. Things get a little wild – even in the greenroom – but it’s all part of the rock ’n’ roll lifestyle. I’ve met amazing people, connected with fans, and seen so many parts of the U.S. It’s been unforgettable.
And after the U.S. tour, you’re heading back to Tokyo. What’s lined up there?
Kazuki: I’ve got two big things happening – my solo show at Shibuya Cyclone on May 14, and a guitar clinic at Musicians Institute Tokyo on April 30. I’m especially excited because I’ll be playing with close friends who’ve been part of my journey for years.
On drums is Miyazono Lucy Takuya – we’ve known each other since we were teens. Satoru Naka’s on bass; he’s a phenomenal player from Osaka.
We go way back – we even lived together for a few months in North Hollywood. And joining us as a special guest is Yo Onityan, a guitarist I really admire. The chemistry between us is something fans will definitely feel on stage.
Sounds like a reunion as much as a performance. Will the clinic have that same energy?
Kazuki: Absolutely. The clinic will be a bit different from a typical solo session—it’s not just me with backing tracks. We’ll be playing live as a full band, which brings a totally different energy. It’ll be raw, spontaneous, and fun. I want people to walk away not just having learned something technical, but feeling inspired to create.
Speaking of creating—your latest single, Sanzen Sekai, really captures your signature sound: technical but emotional. What’s the story behind it?
Kazuki: That track means a lot to me. I wanted it to feel alive—high-energy, catchy, but also full of emotion. It blends everything I love: strong melodies, fast runs, and moments that just hit you in the chest. I worked on the video with Henry Lipatov, a super talented director who’s worked with Linkin Park and Demi Lovato. He gave it this epic, cinematic vibe that matched the song perfectly. I’m really proud of how it turned out.
You’re clearly someone who puts a lot of thought into collaboration – whether it’s a music video or your upcoming Tokyo lineup. How did the idea for this show come together?
Kazuki: Honestly, it was very natural. We were just hanging out one night – drinks, laughter, usual musician talk – and someone said, “Let’s do a show together.” And just like that, we were in. No overthinking, just excitement.
And it’s not the only thing brewing – I just got back from London where I met a guitarist and songwriter I really connected with. We’re already bouncing ideas around. New collaborations are definitely on the horizon.
That spirit of community really comes through. You’re also doing something special at the MI Tokyo clinic—free Ernie Ball strings for concertgoers. How did that idea come about?
Kazuki: That was personal for me. When I was a student at MI Hollywood, I was practicing constantly, and changing strings often. It added up, especially on a tight budget. I talked to the team at MI Tokyo, and we agreed – it would be cool to support students in a tangible way.
So Ernie Ball stepped in and made it happen. It’s a small thing, but I hope it makes a difference. I want people to come to the clinic, feel fired up, and go home ready to play their hearts out.
Let’s talk about your playing style for a moment. You’ve said melody is at the heart of your music. How do you balance technical skill with emotional impact?
Kazuki: (laughs) I always joke that I get paid by the note, so I try to fit in as many as I can—but really, it’s all about feel. Technical skill is just a tool. I try to write from the heart and the head, not just the hands. I want to create lines that stick with people. If someone can hum it back later or feel something they can’t quite explain, that’s success to me.
You’ve got major names behind you – ESP Guitars and Ernie Ball. How important have those partnerships been in your career?
Kazuki: Huge. These companies don’t just make amazing gear—they believe in artists. I grew up idolizing guitarists who played ESP, so becoming part of their artist roster was a dream come true. Their support gives me the tools to do what I love, both on stage and in the studio. And I can’t wait to debut my ESP custom guitar at the Tokyo show!
Final question – looking back at your journey from picking up a guitar at age seven in Japan to playing internationally, what advice would you give to musicians just starting out?
Kazuki: Dream big, and think beyond borders. The world is full of opportunity if you’re open to it. Be humble, stay curious, and never stop learning. And yes – speaking English definitely helps, haha! But more than anything, just keep going. Play because you love it. Everything else will follow.
Kazuki Tokaji performs live at Shibuya Cyclone on May 14, with a guitar clinic hosted at Musicians Institute Tokyo on April 30. For tickets, updates, and to explore his music, visit kazukitokaji.uk.
Want to hear more? make sure to follow Kazuki’s Instagram and tune in to your favorite music platform: YouTube, Spotify, YouTube Music or Apple Music.
