Benny Oyama

In the artist’s words: Describe one of your earliest musical memories in detail. I grew up listening to my father harmonize the sounds of doo-wop with his friends at our family parties. Christmas in the Bronx with family and food from Cuba, Japan, Italy, so many flavors, and the smell of Richie's cigarettes. What are your top 3 all-time favorite albums on Apple Music, and why? Why did you choose these three albums in particular? João Gilberto, João Gilberto (1973) Keith Jarrett, The Köln Concert (Live) The Beach Boys, Pet Sounds Pet Sounds - for the beautifully crafted 1960's ethereal pop, dreamy sounds of summer Joao Gilberto - the intimate mastery of Joao Gilberto's guitar work and voice with simple percussion, absolute genius The Koln Concert - the power of limitations Find a song of yours on Apple Music that you love and tell us what makes it special. Tell us why you chose this song. “Hino Pra Iemanjá” This is a hymn, a prayer of devotion and a supplication for protection, to Iemanja the goddess of the ocean. The melody is simple and deep; it is a true jewel of music that comes straight from source, channeled by Leo Artese. What’s one of the most memorable moments in your career so far? The moment when I finally surrendered. Yes. That moment. Is there anything left on your bucket list as an artist or band? I would like to perform and record in the most sacred temples in Mt. Koya, Japan.