Artist Profile
Yusuke OyaSongwriter / Vocalist / Guitarist / Sound Producer
Trained in classical music from early childhood, Yusuke Oya mastered the cello, piano, guitar, and electronic instruments before beginning his journey as a composer in middle school. After graduating from university, he made his professional debut in 1997 with the band LaB LIFE.
In 2000, he formed the influential band Polaris with Yuzuru Kashiwabara. To date, they have released six full-length albums and have captivated audiences at numerous major outdoor festivals. In 2005, he also formed the special unit ohana alongside Takashi Nagazumi (Hanaregumi) and Ikuko Harada (Clammbon), releasing the album Ohana Hyakkei in 2006.
Oya launched his solo career in 2007. In 2010, he initiated his solo project SPENCER, followed by the release of the eponymous album SPENCER in 2011. As a solo artist, he has collaborated with many musicians and has performed extensively across Europe and Asia.
Recent Highlights:
2018: Polaris released Tentai, their first album in over three years.
2019: Released his first solo cover album STEREO; Polaris released the EP Hikari.
2020: Released the cover album STEREO #2.
2021-2022: Released his first series of original digital singles as a solo artist.
2023: Performed at Fuji Rock Festival for the 7th time (his first appearance in 7 years).
2025: While actively performing solo lives globally and producing other artists, he announced the restart of Polaris in October. He also launched the solo live series "only play 'Polaris'," featuring a repertoire exclusively composed of Polaris songs.
Beyond his primary musical career, Oya is a versatile creator whose work spans music production and songwriting for other artists, film and video scores, commercial music, and professional narration.