Sadao China – Suki Kanna / Suki Kanna Nu-doh Dub Mix (7")
Renowned Ryukyuan folk singer and producer Sadao China, known for his work with Nēnēs and other legendary productions, released his debut song "Suki Kanna" at the age of 13—a track that has since become legendary.
Now, 66 years after its original release, this highly sought-after rarity among Okinawan record collectors is being reissued on 7-inch vinyl in its original Marutaka Records format.
The B-side features a Nu-doh Dub Mix, crafted in collaboration with Harikuyamaku. This version remains true to the original while seamlessly blending with contemporary music, creating a unique cross-genre fusion.
This limited-edition release is a must-have for collectors and music enthusiasts alike.
Reviving a Ryukyuan Classic After 66 Years
Originally released in 1958, Sadao China's legendary debut song "Suki Kanna" is making its long-awaited return in 2024.
A true icon of Okinawan pop culture, China recorded Suki Kanna at the young age of 13, and his extraordinary talent is evident in his smooth, vibrant vocals. The song’s title, "Suki" (Souke) and "Kanna" (Kanna), refers to two place names in Okinawa, and the lyrics depict the lively calls of merchants selling woven bamboo sieves in these regions. The song joyfully continues with the voices of street vendors from Motobu, Koza, Katsuren, and other Okinawan locales.
The B-side is a special highlight. Nu-doh, a producer/DJ who has been active with Churashima Navigator, a group known for reviving Okinawan folk music and traditional performing arts through modern bass music interpretations, delivers a dubstep remix of Suki Kanna.
Thick, heavy beats intertwine with the sanshin, gradually building into a thrilling moment where China’s vocals and a deep bassline resound together. Words alone cannot capture the electrifying fusion of tradition and modernity in this track.
Before creating this remix, Nu-doh personally visited Sadao China, seeking his approval while expressing his vision for the project. This respectful approach is reflected in the intensity and depth of the final mix.
The original Marutaka Records pressing of Suki Kanna is now a highly valuable collector’s item, commanding high prices in the market. For this reissue, mastering and cutting were handled by the legendary UK studio Curve Pusher, ensuring a high-fidelity vinyl release.
This is more than just a record—it’s a legacy. It embodies not only the sounds of Okinawan folk music but also the spirit and history deeply carved into each groove.
—Hajime Oishi (Writer)