Living in New York and active on the global stage, Mr. Sakamoto...
How did you acquire English yourself?
Please enlighten us.

On a Live FM Radio Show

I consider myself a typical example of Japanese English education.
Despite six years of English classes in public junior high and high school, it was completely useless when I went abroad.

Haven't many of you had a similar experience? That's probably why 'station-front study abroad' became so popular. If school English classes were sufficient, there would be no need to pay for such services.

I've had my share of embarrassing moments.
Once, I was invited to a live FM radio show in LA, but the interpreter who was supposed to assist me was late and didn't show up.
It was more than just breaking out in a cold sweat. I could barely understand what the host was saying. Since I didn't know what was being asked, I couldn't possibly answer. After desperately trying to think of something, and a 15-second pause, all I could manage was 'yes'.

The Deep Chasm of Language

But necessity overcomes all. As I hired American musicians for tours and recorded outside of Japan, I gradually became able to speak without feeling too embarrassed.

Then, 18 years ago, I moved to NY. When I came here, whether at the post office or shopping, if I didn't speak loudly, people wouldn't pay attention. That's how you become thick-skinned.

However, I realized that no matter how many years you live here, you can't become a native speaker.
After all, you weren't born and raised here.

The chasm of language is truly deep. Every day, I'm reminded of the immense anger of the God who brought down the Tower of Babel.

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