Kyoji Yamamoto (born March 23, 1956, in Matsue, Japan) is a Japanese guitarist, singer-songwriter, and producer. He is best known as the leader of the hard rock and heavy metal bands Bow Wow (later Vow Wow) and Wild Flag.
Inspired by The Beatles, Woodstock, and guitarists like Jeff Beck and Jimi Hendrix, Yamamoto became one of Japan’s earliest hard rock guitarists. He also pioneered the tapping technique.
In 1975, he formed Bow Wow, a band that later shared stages with Aerosmith and Kiss. During the 1980s, the group transformed into Vow Wow and gained international exposure in the UK. The band disbanded in 1990.
Afterward, Yamamoto continued performing with different Bow Wow lineups. He also built a prolific solo career and collaborated with international musicians.
Known for his innovation and stage energy, Yamamoto remains one of Japan’s most influential rock guitarists.