Making Akira Ifukube's unreleased scores available on physical media!
The Issue
As a lifelong fan of Akira Ifukube, I have cherised the unique soundtracks that he's composed for legendary films like "Godzilla" (1954). Yet, I've noticed a problem in the availability of his musical works beyond the well-known Kaiju soundtracks. Post-1954, many of Ifukube's compositions remain unreleased on CD or vinyl, adding a layer to their obscurity. The movies "Chushingura" (1962), "The Big Boss" (1959), "The Human Revolution" (1973), "Thirteen Assassins" (1963) and "The Betrayal" (1966) come to mind in regards to Ifukube soundtracks which have never gotten a full release at all.
Akira Ifukube, being a legendary Japanese composer, crafted scores that are nothing short of iconic. He skillfully combined traditional Japanese sound with contemporary Western orchestration, which defined an era of film music. His contributions were not limited to the monster-movie genre. Indeed, his portfolio contains a vast array of non-Kaiju works that resonate with the same passion and creativity, yet remain largely unheard by modern audiences.
It's a concern that the less known works might be forgotten over time. Without any efforts to release these scores, there is a real risk that the precious master tapes currently holding these compositions could be lost or damaged beyond repair.
Releasing these works on CD and vinyl would not just ensure the preservation of cultural heritage – it would offer a gateway for fans from all over the world to discover the breadth of Ifukube’s talent. I sincerely believe this would provide a comprehensive view of his genius to fans and music enthusiasts worldwide.
By calling upon record labels and music preservation organizations, I'm aiming to make much of his less known masterpieces be available on physical media for anyone to listen to. This is a dedicated project focused on identifying, restoring and publishing much of Ifukube's unreleased film works.
I urge all fans of Akira Ifukube and lovers of film music to join me in this campaign. Let's work together to bring these hidden scores to the forefront. Join me in signing this petition and share it widely to help us achieve our goal of preserving and celebrating Akira Ifukube's legacy for future generations!
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The Issue
As a lifelong fan of Akira Ifukube, I have cherised the unique soundtracks that he's composed for legendary films like "Godzilla" (1954). Yet, I've noticed a problem in the availability of his musical works beyond the well-known Kaiju soundtracks. Post-1954, many of Ifukube's compositions remain unreleased on CD or vinyl, adding a layer to their obscurity. The movies "Chushingura" (1962), "The Big Boss" (1959), "The Human Revolution" (1973), "Thirteen Assassins" (1963) and "The Betrayal" (1966) come to mind in regards to Ifukube soundtracks which have never gotten a full release at all.
Akira Ifukube, being a legendary Japanese composer, crafted scores that are nothing short of iconic. He skillfully combined traditional Japanese sound with contemporary Western orchestration, which defined an era of film music. His contributions were not limited to the monster-movie genre. Indeed, his portfolio contains a vast array of non-Kaiju works that resonate with the same passion and creativity, yet remain largely unheard by modern audiences.
It's a concern that the less known works might be forgotten over time. Without any efforts to release these scores, there is a real risk that the precious master tapes currently holding these compositions could be lost or damaged beyond repair.
Releasing these works on CD and vinyl would not just ensure the preservation of cultural heritage – it would offer a gateway for fans from all over the world to discover the breadth of Ifukube’s talent. I sincerely believe this would provide a comprehensive view of his genius to fans and music enthusiasts worldwide.
By calling upon record labels and music preservation organizations, I'm aiming to make much of his less known masterpieces be available on physical media for anyone to listen to. This is a dedicated project focused on identifying, restoring and publishing much of Ifukube's unreleased film works.
I urge all fans of Akira Ifukube and lovers of film music to join me in this campaign. Let's work together to bring these hidden scores to the forefront. Join me in signing this petition and share it widely to help us achieve our goal of preserving and celebrating Akira Ifukube's legacy for future generations!
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Petition created on November 2, 2026