Takuya Kuroda is a Japanese jazz trumpeter, composer, and arranger known for his seamless fusion of jazz, funk, soul, and Afrobeat. Originally from Kobe, Japan, Kuroda moved to the United States to study at Berklee College of Music before making a name for himself in New York’s jazz scene. His signature sound blends warm, fluid trumpet lines with groove-heavy rhythms, drawing influences from artists like Donald Byrd, Roy Hargrove, and Fela Kuti.

Kuroda gained wider recognition with his 2014 album Rising Son, released on Blue Note Records and produced by José James. The record showcased his dynamic approach to jazz, incorporating hip-hop-inspired beats and soulful arrangements. Since then, he has continued to evolve his sound with albums like Zigzagger (2016) and Fly Moon Die Soon (2020), further cementing his reputation as a boundary-pushing musician.

With his distinctive blend of traditional jazz musicianship and modern groove-based influences, Takuya Kuroda remains a key figure in contemporary jazz, bridging classic sensibilities with fresh, innovative energy.