Japan’s New Prime Minister Is a Metal Drummer and a Hardcore Black Sabbath Fan

Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, is making headlines for more than her political achievements. In a recent interview on TOKYO FM Podcasts, Takaichi revealed her lifelong devotion to heavy metal music, offering a glimpse into the personal side of the nation’s first female leader.

From Schoolgirl Fan to Metal Enthusiast

Takaichi shared that her fascination with metal began during her school years. “When I was in elementary school, I started listening to Black Sabbath: Paranoid, Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, and things like that,” she recalled. “Then, when I got to middle school, Deep Purple came out. I got into songs like Burn and Smoke On The Water.”

What began as a teenage obsession evolved into a lasting passion. Music, she said, has long served as her escape and emotional outlet amid the demands of daily life. “When I get irritated by my husband’s choice of words or behaviour, I play the electronic drums after he’s gone to bed,” she shared. “Burn by Deep Purple is a staple. I play songs like this to let off steam.”

A Historic Figure With a Heavy Sound

Takaichi’s candid comments come at a defining moment in her career. According to Wikipedia, she made history in October 2025 by becoming Japan’s first female Prime Minister, after defeating Shinjirō Koizumi in the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership runoff. Her victory marks a major milestone in Japan’s political landscape—one now accompanied by a decidedly rock ’n’ roll soundtrack.

Unlike many political leaders, Takaichi doesn’t shy away from sharing her musical side. As Bandwagon Asia reported, she isn’t just a casual listener—she’s a seasoned heavy metal drummer, using the genre as a way to decompress from the pressures of leadership. Her tastes extend beyond Black Sabbath and Deep Purple to include metal icons like Iron Maiden.

Bridging Politics and Pop Culture

Takaichi’s openness about her musical interests has drawn attention both in Japan and abroad. As Inkl noted, she even appeared on Babymetal’s podcast, where she spoke at length about her admiration for classic metal bands, further connecting her with the global rock community.

Her unique blend of political authority and musical passion paints a portrait of a leader who defies convention. By embracing her love of heavy metal, Takaichi is not only humanizing the role of Prime Minister but also symbolizing a new era in Japanese politics—one that celebrates authenticity, individuality, and the power of personal expression.