Singer

Ken Watanabe

Watch
Booking protection
Secure online payments
Free 48hr cancellations
Support available Mon-Sun
Like Ken?
Watch & Listen
Watch
Listen

About Ken

Singer who combines traditional Japanese music with modern innovative pop arrangements, ambient - house music and a DJ set.
Ken Watanabe's profile picture
Singer
London

Ken Watanabe BA(Hons) Sonic Arts / Music (theory, composition, vocal studies) / Vocals / Keybord / Trumpet / Programming I have provided my music for feature films, theatre projects, fashion shows, adult entertainments, art events, live shows, bars, restaurants, night clubs, clothing stores, flower shops, beauty salons. I was born and raised in Japan but have been living in Europe (Paris and London) since the age of 19. My three favourite musicians are Nina Simone for her passion and expressiveness. Erik Satie for his timeless coolness, and JS Bach for the beauty of his music and its logical construction. Alternatively I love the work of Japanese fashion designer Rei Kawakubo (COMME des GARCONS). In terms of artistic strength and innovation I see both as trailblazers.

Ken's Reviews

From customers:

ML
Masahiko S
5 years ago

Ken produced a really cool two hour set for our special Japanese event at Nobu Berkeley Street It combined his singing performance with Japanese songs to create a chilled mood.

IP
Ian P
5 years ago

Ken composed very effective scores for both my feature films using lush orchestral effects and human voices. Both have been distributed all over the World

Encore badges
4th Anniversary
This act has been working with Encore for over 4 years

Ken's Song list

[English ballad / soul / pop]
The Rose
Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow
I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free
Sunny
I Want You
The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
You Got The Love
Autumn Leaves
Time After Time
Nothing Compares 2U
Woman To Woman
[Japanese Songs]
Sakura Sakura
Miagete goran yoru no hoshi wo
Hana
I Love You
Ihoujin
Kamome wa Kamome
Koi Ni Ochite
Akatonbo
Shounen Jidai
Someday
Leaving
Ano Subarashii Ai wo Mouichido
Tsubasa wo Kudasai

Ken's Prices

Note: prices may vary based on travel distance. For an exact quote, click “Check availability”.

Standard Prices
Performance durationPrice
Short performance (up to 15 min)£75
Up to 1 hour£150
Up to 2 hours£200
Up to 3 hours£300
Customer questions

What if my timings change after I've booked you?

I’m flexible.

Can you provide an iPod/DJ service before and between your sets?

Yes.

How much time do you need to set up?

30min - 1 hour.

Can I pick the pieces you play from the set list?

Yes.

Do you bring all the equipment you need to perform?

Yes, synthesizer / drum machine / laptop / mixer / microphone (+stands)

Can you learn specific pieces before the event?

I’m happy to discuss.

What do your clients love most about your performances?

I combine the traditional with innovative arrangements and new songs. I create a mellow atmosphere for the audience.

Which venues have you performed at in the past?

COMME des GARÇONS (fashion store) Nobu Sketch Brunswick house Bistrotheque Boat parties on Thames river

Which artists have you been most influenced by?

Nina Simone (soul) Erik Satie (classic / contemporary) A Guy called Gerald (house DJ)

What is the most high profile gig you've performed?

London Fashion week.
Musicianship
Genres:
Electronic, House, Ambient, Pop, Covers, Soul, World music, Asian music, Techno, Electronica, Ambient pop, Classical crossover
See all genres
Instruments:
See all instruments
Event types:
Bar / Club / Venue event, Hotel / Restaurant event, Private event, Theatre / Show, Christmas party, New Year's Eve
See all event types
Other skills:
Composer, Songwriter, Producer, Ableton Live
See all skills