ayuco (Ayuko Shimada)

…A voice brimming with emotion flows naturally into the heart of the listener,
With a  soothing serenity, energising and refreshing…

Born in Saitama, Grew up in Hokkaido. Began singing in High school.
Then discovered and developed a great passion for Brazilian music.

In 1996, travelled to London to study Music and the English language, where I began to have many new musical experiences, in a different musical scene with people I met from all over the world.

In 2000 I returned to Japan.

After returning to Japan, my passion for Brazilian music deepened while working with, and exchanging ideas with different musicians at live sessions around Tokyo.

My first solo performance took place at a bar named ‘Corcovado’ In Takadanobaba.
I continued to perform the same show, named ‘Peixe Vermelho’- The Red Fish, at a number of different locations in Tokyo.

In 2003 I travelled to London again. At this time I released a 12” record and label compilation with the English Music Producer Troy and other musicians.

Entitled ‘Japan meets Brazil’, I performed at a variety of venues in London;
eg. Notting Hill Arts Club, Guanabara and Redchurch etc…

During the summer I was also involved with the ABC Trust (Action for Brazilian Children) and their summer festival and ‘ABC Compilation’.

Spring 2006 Returned to Japan and formed my band 'encanto'. We are currently performing in and around Tokyo .

August 2007 1st album called「encanto� ja sint saudade」released.

May 2008「Into The Blue」chosen for Mercedes-Benz compilation, "Mixed Tape 20" (online from April, 24th).

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