Begin is a three-piece Japanese pop group from Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, best known for blending traditional Okinawan folk music with modern pop sensibilities. The sanshin—a three-stringed instrument central to Okinawan music—is their signature sound. Their biggest hit is "Nada Sousou," a collaboration with singer Moriyama Ryouko that's become iconic in Japan. They've also lent their talents to anime and children's programming, including the opening and closing themes ("Ichariba Ohana" and "Izayoi Yoi") for Disney's Stitch! and various spots on NHK's Minna no Uta.

The band consists of three Okinawan natives: Higa Eisho on vocals, Shimabukuro Masaru on guitar, and Uechi Hitoshi on piano. All three grew up together on the island and went to the same elementary and high schools, though after graduation they'd planned to split up and pursue separate paths. Eisho eventually brought them back together to focus on music instead. They officially became "Begin" on December 5, 1988, when they performed at a friend's wedding—and the name stuck as they quickly gained a following.

Higa Eisho (比嘉栄昇) – vocals | Born: July 15, 1968

Shimabukuro Masaru (島袋優) – guitar | Born: September 23, 1968

Uechi Hitoshi (上地等) – piano | Born: June 23, 1968

Record Label: Imperial Records