Aki Yashiro, a beloved enka singer who passed away in December 2023 at the age of 73, is at the center of a controversy that has ignited public outrage in Japan. On April 21, 2025, a record company based in Kagoshima City, New Century Records, released a CD featuring her songs along with private nude photographs taken when she was in her twenties. This release has been met with fierce criticism from fans, industry figures, and local government officials, all of whom have expressed their disapproval of what they deem a violation of Yashiro's dignity.
The controversy began when New Century Records announced the release of the album titled "Aki Yashiro Otakara Series Volume 1 Wasurenai dene." The company claims to own approximately 250 sound recordings related to Yashiro and previously released an album titled "Tsuioku Ban." However, this latest collection includes two full-nude photographs, described on the company's website as "Aki Yashiro's first nude photograph," taken by a director with whom she had a relationship during her early career.
Ikeda Yoshinobu, the representative of the Kumamoto cabaret where Yashiro first performed, lamented, "To destroy a person's dignity after they have passed away is a shameful act as a human being." His comments reflect a broader sentiment among her fans and supporters who feel that the release of these photographs tarnishes Yashiro's legacy.
Chiharu Matsuyama, a fellow singer, voiced his concerns during an appearance on NACK5's "ON THE RADIO" on April 20, just before the CD's release. He expressed confusion over the decision to commercialize Yashiro's private photographs, stating, "Selling someone's private photographs is like selling one's own soul. I think that's something that should absolutely be avoided." Matsuyama further noted that while many people admired Yashiro, he doubted that many would appreciate her nude photos.
The release of the CD has sparked significant backlash, with over 50,000 signatures collected on an online petition calling for the protection of Yashiro's dignity and the prevention of what many are labeling as revenge porn. The petition, which appeared on Change.org, received rapid support, gathering 24,000 signatures by noon on the release date alone. Comments on the petition included sentiments like "Outrage against the deceased who cannot speak" and "Should not be used as a tool for money-making," highlighting the moral outrage surrounding the issue.
In response to the public outcry, officials from Yashiro's hometown of Kumamoto Prefecture have also spoken out. Governor Ikuo Kabashima stated in a blog post on April 16, "I will not allow such outrageous acts," emphasizing the need to protect Yashiro's legacy. Similarly, Koichi Shiota, the governor of Kagoshima Prefecture, where New Century Records is located, acknowledged the issues surrounding consent and dignity, urging the company to consider the public's sentiments.
Despite the backlash, New Century Records has remained steadfast in its decision to proceed with the sale. The company has stated that it has the legal rights to the photographs and the music, claiming to have purchased these rights approximately 25 years ago. They have also indicated that they are conducting mail-order sales directly through their website, despite major retailers like Tower Records refusing to carry the CD due to the controversy.
As the situation unfolds, Aki Yashiro's family is reportedly preparing to take legal action against the record company. Aki Yashiro Music & Gallery, which manages her copyrights and portrait rights, has announced that they are advancing preparations for both criminal and civil proceedings. They have sent a written notice to New Century Records requesting the cessation of the use of the photographs, but as of now, they have not received a response.
On the day of the CD's release, New Century Records promoted the album on its website, stating that it was "currently on sale." However, the backlash has led to significant complications, as many online retailers have halted sales and distribution due to the uproar. The company continues to assert its right to sell the CD, with its president, Hayakawa Hiroshi, consistently stating in interviews that there are no plans to stop the sale.
The release of the CD with nude photographs has not only raised questions about the ethics of posthumous exploitation but has also ignited a larger conversation about respect for artists and their legacies. As fans and advocates continue to rally against the sale, the fate of the CD remains uncertain, with legal actions likely to unfold in the coming weeks.
As the public grapples with the implications of this release, the story serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with handling the legacies of those who have passed, particularly in the entertainment industry. The voices of Aki Yashiro's fans and family are a powerful testament to the enduring impact of her artistry and the need for dignity in how such legacies are treated.
