Jazz singer akiko is bringing in some heavyweight guests to celebrate a major milestone. On June 21, she'll mark 25 years since her debut with an anniversary concert at Billboard Live Tokyo, and she's doing it with Taniaka Atsushi, the baritone saxophonist from Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra. Osaka gets its own date on June 29.

What makes this pairing interesting is the musical contrast. While Taniaka is known for the energetic, upbeat sound of ska with Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra—the legendary instrumental band that's been around since 1989—this collaboration will explore a different side of his musicianship. The setlist will blend akiko's jazz repertoire with Brazilian music and other styles, giving audiences a chance to hear Taniaka in a more understated, sophisticated context.

The Tokyo show will have an extra special guest: Hayami Yu will join the lineup for what's being billed as a one-off performance. Given that the Tokyo concert falls on akiko's actual 25th anniversary date, it's a fitting way to mark the occasion.

Akiko made history as the first Japanese female vocalist signed to Verve Records, the prestigious jazz label. Her career represents a significant chapter in bringing Japanese jazz to international audiences, while Taniaka's work with Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra has included world tours spanning 31 countries and performances at major global music festivals—plus a memorable stint at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics closing ceremony.

Tickets are already on sale through Billboard Live's official site. The Tokyo show is coming up fast, so anyone interested should grab seats soon. Each venue will have two separate sets, giving fans multiple opportunities to catch the performance across both cities.

This marks an interesting moment where Tokyo's jazz and ska worlds intersect, bringing together two distinct corners of Japan's thriving music scene for what promises to be a memorable celebration.