Yuzo Koshiro is a legendary Japanese composer whose pioneering work in video game music has profoundly shaped electronic and dance music production. Beginning his career in the mid-1980s, Koshiro developed a distinctive style that blends synthesizer-driven arrangements with dynamic, rhythm-focused compositions—establishing him as one of the most influential figures in game audio history.
Koshiro's discography spans iconic franchises including the Ys series, ActRaiser, Shinobi, Sonic, and Streets of Rage, where his energetic synth work and innovative use of percussion helped define the sound of 8-bit and 16-bit gaming. His compositions for Streets of Rage in particular showcase his mastery of electronic production, featuring funky bass lines and intricate layering that influenced broader electronic music culture. Beyond gaming, Koshiro's work has been celebrated across electronic music circles, with his compositions frequently sampled and remixed by contemporary producers, cementing his legacy as a bridge between video game culture and electronic dance music.
