Deep Purple's Visit Thrills Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi

On April 10, 2026, British rock band Deep Purple visited Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo. This meeting delighted Takaichi, a well-known superfan of the band, who has publicly expressed her admiration for Deep Purple, alongside other rock legends like Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden. Takaichi, who is also an amateur drummer, presented Deep Purple's drummer Ian Paice with a set of signed drumsticks made in Japan, exclaiming, “You are my god.”

The Straits TimesSouth China Morning PostSeymour Telegraph

During the meeting, Takaichi shared her personal connection to Deep Purple, revealing that she purchased their iconic album *Machine Head* in grade school. This album features classic tracks such as "Smoke on the Water" and "Highway Star." Takaichi's musical journey includes playing keyboard in a Deep Purple tribute band during middle school and later switching to drums in university. She humorously noted, “These days, when I fight with my husband I drum to ‘Burn’ and cast a curse on him,” highlighting her passion for music.

South China Morning Post

The visit came at a challenging time for Takaichi, who became Japan's first female prime minister in October 2025. Since taking office, she has faced significant issues, including diplomatic tensions with China, economic challenges stemming from a weak yen, rising prices, and the looming threat of an energy crisis due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Takaichi expressed her admiration for Deep Purple, stating, “I have the deepest respect for the way you continue to make rock history while embracing new challenges and creating captivating music to this day.”

The Straits Times

Deep Purple's connection to Japan is historically significant, particularly marked by their double live album *Made in Japan*, recorded during their first tour in 1972. This album solidified their reputation as one of rock's most formidable live acts. The band is set to kick off their 2026 Japan tour on April 11 at Tokyo's Nippon Budokan, further emphasizing their enduring legacy in the country.

The Straits Times

While the meeting was celebrated by many, some critics may view Takaichi's engagement with a rock band as a distraction from pressing political issues facing Japan. The juxtaposition of a light-hearted meeting with the serious challenges of her administration raises questions about priorities in leadership.

The Straits Times

• “You are my god,” — Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan

The Straits Times

• “I have the deepest respect for the way you continue to make rock history while embracing new challenges and creating captivating music to this day,” — Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan

The Straits Times

• “These days, when I fight with my husband I drum to ‘Burn’ and cast a ?curse on him,” — Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan

South China Morning Post

This meeting between Deep Purple and Prime Minister Takaichi highlights the intersection of culture and politics, showcasing how personal passions can momentarily uplift leaders amid significant national challenges.

The Straits Times