Kazumi Watanabe (born October 14, 1953, in Shibuya, Tokyo) is a leading Japanese jazz guitarist. He is best known for his skill, versatility, and lasting impact on jazz fusion.
Watanabe studied under guitarist Sadanori Nakamure. At 17, he released his first album, Infinite (1971). Soon after, he began working with world-class musicians such as Ryuichi Sakamoto, Jaco Pastorius, Bill Bruford, and Jeff Berlin.
His breakthrough came with albums like Kylyn (1979), To Chi Ka (1980), and the Spice of Life series. These works placed him at the center of Japan’s jazz fusion movement. Over five decades, he released dozens of albums and performed on stages around the globe. Fellow artists, including Pat Metheny and SUGIZO, praised his artistry.
Outside the studio, Watanabe taught at Senzoku Gakuen College of Music and hosted radio shows. He also performed with his wife, pianist Kimiko Tanigawa. Even after facing health challenges in 2024, he remains celebrated as one of Japan’s greatest guitarists and a true pioneer of modern jazz fusion.