Takashi Hirayasu (born 1952) is a Japanese musician, singer, and songwriter from Okinawa, recognized for his contributions to contemporary Okinawan folk music (min'yo). He is noted for his proficiency with the sanshin, a traditional three-stringed Ryukyuan lute, and for his role in blending traditional Okinawan sounds with diverse international musical genres.
Hirayasu first achieved significant recognition as a lead guitarist and vocalist for the Okinawan band Shisars (The Shisāzu) during the 1990s. Following his tenure with the group, he embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut solo album Kariyushi no Tsuki in 1998. This work demonstrated his ability to integrate the sanshin with contemporary arrangements, incorporating elements of rock, reggae, and pop.
He gained broader international visibility through his collaborations with the American ethnomusicologist and slide guitarist Bob Brozman. Their 2000 album, Jin Jin / Firefly, featured reinterpretations of traditional Okinawan children's songs. The project received critical acclaim in the world music circuit for its fusion of Ryukyuan vocal techniques with blues and folk influences. This partnership continued with the album Ninas (2002), which further explored the intersection of Okinawan melodies with global rhythms.
Throughout his career, Hirayasu has been a prominent figure in the promotion of Okinawan culture. His musical style is characterized by a rhythmic, often upbeat approach to traditional melodies, aiming to maintain the relevance of Ryukyuan musical heritage in a modern, globalized context. He has performed extensively at international world music festivals and remains a respected figure in the Okinawan music scene.