ABOUT
The visionary composer who defined the sound of cyberpunk and electronic anime music
Defining an
Era
Born in Tokyo in 1955, Keishi Urata emerged from the underground electronic scene to become one of Japan's most influential composers, forever changing the landscape of anime and electronic music.
His groundbreaking work on Akira in 1988 didn't just score a film—it created a new language for cyberpunk aesthetics, blending traditional orchestration with cutting-edge synthesis techniques that were revolutionary for their time.
Across four decades, Urata has composed for over 400 projects, each piece a testament to his ability to capture the essence of modern Japan's technological evolution through sound. His work bridges the gap between electronic experimentation and emotional storytelling.
Beyond composition, Urata has been instrumental in establishing electronic music as a legitimate art form in Japan, mentoring countless artists and advocating for the preservation of electronic music history.
Timeline
Early Beginnings
Started experimenting with electronic music synthesis at Tokyo University's music lab.
First Commercial Release
Released 'Neo-Tokyo Chronicles', establishing a unique sound that would define cyberpunk music.
Akira Breakthrough
Composed the legendary Akira soundtrack, revolutionizing anime music forever.
Golden Era
Peak creative period with multiple groundbreaking releases and film scores.
International Recognition
Gained global acclaim and influenced a generation of electronic music producers.
Legacy & Innovation
Continued to push boundaries while mentoring new artists and preserving electronic music history.
Awards &
Honors
Japan Record Award
Akira Original Soundtrack
Tokyo International Film Festival
Ghost in the Machine
Electronic Music Pioneer Award
Career Recognition
Cultural Ambassador
Cultural Contribution
Photo
Gallery
