All Citizens of Japan

One of the enduring headlines from September 12, 2001 appeared in Paris’ La Monde: “We Are All Americans.” It was the world’s overwhelming response to the attacks of September 11th. The headline on March 12, 2011 might have been: “We Are All Japanese” after three historic catastrophes struck that island nation on March 11th.
The Brothers Four have been performing regularly in Japan for nearly fifty years. It was my joy and privilege to become part of that ongoing adventure in 1969. I was twenty-two years old then and look forward to returning for my 40th visit in the spring of 2012. The abiding ties and tenderness of The Brothers Four for Japan and that country for the group may best be summed up in the words of a man about my age that came to a show a few years ago. He grew up learning English listening to Brothers Four albums.
“Because of The Brothers Four I learned English. Because I learned English I did well in school. Because I did well in school I went to the University. Because I went to the University I met my friends. Because I met my friends I met my wife and got a good job. Because I got a good job I have my children. Because of The Brothers Four I have my life.”
The connections are strong. The affection is life long. My heart aches for the people and the country of Japan. Yet I have no doubt when so many Japanese friends tell me their country will come back stronger than ever. 10% of any money I earn in 2011 from performing or album sales will be going to help them do just that.