Tak Matsumoto (born 1961, Osaka) is a legendary guitarist and the leader of B’z, Japan’s best-selling rock band. With over 100 million records sold, B’z stands as a milestone in Japanese music history. Matsumoto drew inspiration from guitar icons Jimmy Page and Ritchie Blackmore. In 1999, Gibson honored him with a Les Paul signature model, making him the first Japanese musician to receive such recognition.
In 2010, Matsumoto won a Grammy Award with jazz guitarist Larry Carlton for their collaborative album Take Your Pick. This success placed him firmly on the international stage. Known for his melodic phrasing and expressive vibrato, he moves easily between rock, blues, and heartfelt ballads.
Outside his work with B’z, Matsumoto founded the Indigo Note gear brand. He also collaborated on whiskey projects and revived his rock side project TMG. For his cultural contributions, the city of Toyonaka named him an Honorary Citizen. These achievements confirm his role not only as a Japanese music icon but also as a figure with global influence.