Masaharu Fukuyama is a Japanese singer-songwriter and actor from Nagasaki. He debuted in 1990 with the single “Tsuioku no Ame no Naka”. Represented by Amuse, Inc., Fukuyama is primarily known for his successful music career, though he has also appeared in numerous Japanese television dramas and films.

Fukuyama’s 1992 breakout single “Good night”, tied to the TV drama Ai wo Douda, brought him widespread popularity. He made his first appearance in the prestigious Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1993. His role in the drama Under the Same Roof propelled him to further fame, leading to his first million-selling single “It’s Only Love/Sorry Baby” in 1994, followed by the highly successful “Hello” in 1995. After a brief hiatus in 1996, he returned in 1998 with the hit single “Heart/You”, which reignited his career and led to his annual Daikanshasai (Thanksgiving) concerts for fans.

Among Fukuyama’s most popular songs are “Sakura Zaka”, which topped charts for three weeks and sold over 2.2 million copies, and “Niji”, used as the theme song for the drama Water Boys. His 2003 triple A-side single “Niji/Himawari/Sore ga Subete sa” dominated the Oricon charts for five weeks. With over 21.27 million copies sold, Fukuyama is recognized as Japan’s best-selling male solo artist.