Unexpected Fan Fuels Viral Sensation for Japanese Singer
Japanese singer-songwriter Taitoku Oyama found himself thrust into the spotlight after a December 18th appearance on the popular Japanese television show, “Wednesday Downtown” (TBS). The reason? The unwavering support of a very special fan: the mother of the show’s main character, Detective Diane Tsuda.
The episode featured Tsuda investigating a murder at a Niigata resort hotel. A surprise appearance by Tsuda’s mother revealed a surprising detail: “I was listening to music and relaxing. Taitoku Oyama’s ‘Irreplaceable’,” she stated. This confession sparked a hilarious outburst from Tsuda: “You’re saying this again! I don’t understand why my mom has always liked this singer! She’s a local singer, and I’ve been following her… Isn’t it just that my money goes to her? I can’t forgive her, really!”
oyama, based in Osaka and primarily known in the Kansai region, shares a birth year with Tsuda (1975), adding an fascinating layer to the story.His response to the unexpected fame was both humble and humorous. On social media, he posted: “Thank you for letting me know the name ‘Taitoku Oyama’ and ‘an irreplaceable thing.’ I can only thank Diane Tsuda’s mother for her support. Thank you so much.”
The post quickly garnered nearly 30,000 likes, with comments ranging from amusement at Tsuda’s reactions (“It’s funny how Diane Tsuda keeps calling her names”) to genuine appreciation for Oyama’s music (“I’m looking forward to her appearance downtown on Wednesday”).
Oyama’s Reaction: Gratitude and Amazement
Oyama’s representative shed light on the long-standing support from Tsuda’s mother: “Originally, Mr. Tsuda’s mother brought Oyama’s CD to every TV shoot and has been promoting it for many years. ‘The Joy of Living’—’Wow!’ they said to us as well… Thier support was so powerful, it’s just humbling.”
oyama himself expressed surprise at the overwhelming response: “The response was amazing, and to be honest, I don’t really understand. Especially in X, when I wrote a letter expressing my genuine gratitude, the staff said, ’Mr.Oyama, you’re amazing.’ I was like,’What’s going on?’ (laughs).” He also addressed the playful use of Tsuda’s name, stating, “I don’t mean it in a pleasant way, but don’t you usually call each other out? I’m really grateful to everyone, including Diane Tsuda and her mother, but I think it’s tough to write it down. (LOL),” he explained with a laugh.
Speaking of Tsuda’s mother,Oyama shared,”From the beginning,she spoke to me very frankly,saying things like,’Your singing voice is really good!’ and ‘You’re such a good person!’,and told both me and the staff that she was truly the best on that TV. He came to our concert in Osaka, and he took the initiative to speak passionately to the fans who came to the venue, as if he where a staff member (lol). I’m really grateful.”
The unexpected publicity has led to a surge in listeners, with Oyama noting, “I’ve been doing music for 20 years, and I’m just a singer, so I’m just happy that people are listening to my songs.” His next live performance is scheduled for January 8th at 7 p.m. at the KuraGe live house in Shinsaibashi, Osaka.
