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Toshio Nakanishi
中西 俊夫
Toshkitchen.jpg
Nakanishi in 2006
Background information
Native name
中西俊夫
Also known as Tycoon To$h, Typhoom Tosh
Born (1956-01-13)13 January 1956
Tokyo, Japan
Died 25 February 2017(2017-02-25) (aged 61)
Tokyo, Japan
Genres New wave, technopop, hip hop
Instruments Vocals, guitar
Years active 1976–2017
Associated acts K.U.D.O, Major Force, Melon, Plastics, Chica Sato, Water Melon, Water Melon Group, Terminater Troops

Toshio Nakanishi (中西 俊夫, Nakanishi Toshio, January 13, 1956 – February 25, 2017) was a very creative Japanese musician and graphic designer. He was also known by his cool nicknames, Tycoon To$h or Typhoom Tosh.

Toshio Nakanishi is best known for starting the new wave band Plastics in 1976. He was a big part of the exciting "technopop" music trend in Japan. Later, he became a leader in the Japanese hip hop music scene with his own music label, Major Force. Toshio Nakanishi passed away in Tokyo, Japan, when he was 61 years old.

Who Was Toshio Nakanishi?

Toshio Nakanishi was born in Tokyo, Japan, on January 13, 1956. From a young age, he showed a lot of interest in music and art. He grew up to be a key figure in Japanese music. He helped shape two very different music styles. These were the electronic sounds of new wave and the beats of hip hop.

Starting with New Wave: The Plastics

In 1976, Toshio Nakanishi co-founded the band Plastics. This band became famous for its unique "new wave" sound. New wave music was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It often used electronic instruments and had a fresh, energetic feel.

The Plastics were known for their catchy songs and fun performances. They were a big part of the "technopop" fever in Japan. Technopop mixed electronic music with pop melodies. The band even toured around the world. They shared the stage with famous groups like Talking Heads and The B-52's. This helped introduce Japanese music to many new fans.

Leading the Hip Hop Scene in Japan

After his time with Plastics, Toshio Nakanishi moved on to a new challenge. He became a pioneer in the Japanese hip hop scene. In the 1980s, hip hop music was growing fast around the world. Toshio Nakanishi wanted to bring this exciting new sound to Japan.

He started his own music label called Major Force. This label was very important for Japanese hip hop. It helped many new hip hop artists get their start. Major Force released music that mixed hip hop beats with other styles. Toshio Nakanishi helped create a unique Japanese hip hop sound. His work made him a respected figure in the music industry.

His Lasting Impact

Toshio Nakanishi was a true innovator. He was always looking for new sounds and ideas. His work with Plastics helped define the new wave era in Japan. Then, his efforts with Major Force laid the groundwork for Japanese hip hop. He inspired many musicians and artists. His influence can still be heard in music today.

Toshio Nakanishi passed away on February 25, 2017, in Tokyo. He was 61 years old. He left behind a rich musical legacy. He will always be remembered as a creative force in Japanese music.

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