Hama Okamoto Leaves OKAMOTO’S After 17 Years, Keeps Stage Name

Hama Okamoto, bassist of Tokyo rock band OKAMOTO’S, announced his departure on August 14 after 17 years with the group. The decision came after extensive discussions among all four members during his health-related hiatus since April. OKAMOTO’S will continue as a three-piece, while Hama will pursue solo work under his own name, approved by his former bandmates.

Why Hama left the band

Hama took medical leave in April after doctors advised rest. The March cancellation of OKAMOTO’S Nagoya show marked the start of his absence. During recovery, all four members held repeated talks about their future paths. The band and Hama agreed that continuing together would conflict with their individual goals, prompting the split.

17 years of shared history

Hama and his three bandmates have known each other since middle school. OKAMOTO’S debuted in 2009 and became one of Japan’s most successful rock exports, performing at SXSW in 2010 as the youngest Japanese male artists at the festival. The group released their 10th album ‘4EVER’ in January 2025 and was touring 47 prefectures for their 15th anniversary when Hama’s health forced the pause.

What comes next for both sides

OKAMOTO’S will continue performing as a trio with vocalist Okamoto Sho, guitarist Okamoto Koki, and drummer Okamoto Reiji. Hama will keep the stage name ‘Hama Okamoto’ with the three members’ blessing. He confirmed he will continue performing but said future activities depend on his recovery. The band thanked Hama for 17 years of collaboration and pledged to give their full effort in upcoming live shows.

Health struggles and recovery focus

Hama also struggled with health issues in 2024, taking a six-month break from April to September. His father is comedian Masatoshi Hamada of Downtown, and his mother is talent Namatsu Ogawa. Hama thanked his bandmates in his statement, saying they shaped who he is today. He will now focus on recovery while maintaining his music career.

Final Thoughts

After 17 years together, OKAMOTO’S and Hama Okamoto part ways as friends. The trio continues with full force while Hama recovers and builds a solo path, both with mutual support.

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