Tsunku

Tsunku (つんく♂), also known as Tsunku♂, is a Japanese record producer, songwriter, composer, arranger, singer, and businessman. He is best known as the founder and primary producer of the Hello! Project, a collective of all-female idol groups that includes Morning Musume., Berryz Kobo, °C-ute, and Angerme.

Tsunku's career began as the vocalist of the rock band Sharam Q, which achieved moderate success in the 1990s. In 1997, he held an audition to find a female vocalist for a new project, which ultimately led to the formation of Morning Musume. He served as the group's main producer, writing and composing the majority of their songs and shaping their image.

Under Tsunku's direction, Hello! Project became a major force in the Japanese idol music scene. He is known for his catchy melodies, innovative arrangements, and keen eye for talent. His production style often incorporates elements of pop, rock, and dance music. Beyond his work with Hello! Project, Tsunku has also produced music for other artists and written songs for various anime and video game soundtracks.

In 2014, Tsunku publicly announced that he had been diagnosed with laryngeal cancer and had undergone surgery to remove his larynx. Despite losing his singing voice, he continues to work as a producer and songwriter. His influence on the Japanese idol industry remains significant.