Deep Purple Meets Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo

On April 10, 2026, the legendary British rock band Deep Purple met with Japan's first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, at her office in Tokyo. This visit occurred just before the band commenced their Japan tour, which begins on April 11 at the iconic Nippon Budokan. Takaichi, a long-time fan of the band, expressed her admiration by presenting drummer Ian Paice with a pair of signed Japanese-made drumsticks, exclaiming, "You are my god."

Deep Purple meets Japan PM in memorable Tokyo visitTaipei TimesJapanese PM Takaichi Meets Deep Purple, Calls Band 'My God'

Sanae Takaichi's passion for rock music is well-documented. She has often cited Deep Purple as one of her favorite bands, alongside Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden. During the meeting, she shared personal anecdotes, revealing that she purchased Deep Purple's classic album "Machine Head" while in grade school. Takaichi also recounted her history as a musician, having played keyboard in a Deep Purple tribute band during her middle school years before switching to drums at university. In a light-hearted moment, she joked, "These days, when I fight with my husband, I drum to 'Burn' and cast a curse on him."

Watch: DEEP PURPLE Visits Japanese Prime Minister SANAE TAKAICHI In Her OfficeJapanese PM Takaichi Meets Deep Purple, Calls Band 'My God'Taipei Times

The meeting highlighted the long-standing relationship between Deep Purple and Japan, particularly through the band's iconic live album "Made in Japan," recorded during their first tour in 1972. Takaichi expressed her hope that the band's performances would "thrill and excite fans all over Japan" and promote cultural exchange between the UK and Japan. She stated, "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."

Japanese PM Takaichi Meets Deep Purple, Calls Band 'My God'BBC NewsJapanese Prime Minister meets Deep Purple: "I play 'Burn' on the drums"

This encounter provided a brief respite for Takaichi, who has faced numerous challenges since taking office in October 2025. These include strained diplomatic relations with China, rising inflation, and a sluggish economy. The meeting with Deep Purple served as a moment of levity amidst her demanding responsibilities.

Japanese PM Takaichi Meets Deep Purple, Calls Band 'My God'

Deep Purple's members expressed their gratitude for the meeting. Ian Paice remarked that visiting Japan is always a pleasure, calling the encounter with Takaichi an "added bonus." The band shared on Instagram their appreciation for Takaichi's lifelong admiration for their music, noting her history as a fan and musician.

Japanese PM Takaichi Meets Deep Purple, Calls Band 'My God'

Deep Purple is set to kick off their 2026 Japan tour with a performance at Tokyo's Nippon Budokan, continuing a legacy that has connected them with Japanese audiences for over half a century.

The IndependentTaipei TimesDeep Purple meets Japan PM in memorable Tokyo visit