Self-Proclaimed Fan Takaichi Welcomes Deep Purple

Tokyo, April 10 (Jiji Press)–Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who proclaims herself a big fan of Deep Purple, met with members of the legendary British hard rock band at the prime minister’s office in Tokyo on Friday. Entering the room where the members were waiting, Takaichi welcomed the band with open arms. “You are a band that I admire,” an excited Takaichi said, with a smile. “I played your songs on keyboard in a cover band when I was in junior high school.” Formed in 1968, Deep Purple has produced many hit songs, including “Highway Star,” “Burn” and “Smoke on the Water.” The band is now in Japan for a concert tour, and the meeting took place at the band’s request. The band presented the prime minister with an autographed snare drum. “Coming to Japan is a pleasure, and this time we have an added bonus” of meeting the prime minister, drummer Ian Paice said. Takaichi gave the band Japanese-made “Tama” brand drumsticks. “I have great respect for how you have shaped the history of rock and continue to create compelling music,” she told the members. “When I argue with my husband, I play ‘Burn’ on the drums and throw a curse on him,” she joked. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]