Motoyasu Tamada, 91, of the male chorus group "Bonnie Jacks," appeared on Tetsuko Kuroyanagi's long-running talk show "Tetsuko's Room" (TV Asahi), which aired on October 16th. He spoke about the history of the Bonnie Jacks and what it feels like to sing solo in his 90s.
The Bonnie Jacks were formed by four members of the Waseda University Glee Club, three of whom have since passed away. The COVID-19 pandemic led to concerts being canceled, and the agency's business deteriorated. At the time of bankruptcy, he was 88 years old. He considered retirement, but was encouraged by his new agency, who told him he could still sing. He was told it would be best to continue using the name Bonnie Jacks in order to pass on the story of the glamorous cultural phenomenon that had existed alongside the Dark Ducks and the Duke Aces.
He made his solo debut at the age of 90. "When I was in a group, I pursued singing the bass part of a male choir, which was fun, but I didn't often sing the melody myself," he said, but he was told to learn to sing alone.
He made his solo debut and released the CD "Men's Lullabies." "It feels really good to sing solo in front of people. It's a new realm," he said with a smile. He has also held concerts in various places. He also works four days a week at a nursing home. "Thanks to everyone, I've been blessed with good health, so I'd like to thank God and my parents," he said. This time, he sang a solo version of "What a Wonderful World" in the studio, and commented, "I was nervous, but it felt good."
