Masafumi Akikawa, born on October 11, 1967, in Japan as 秋川 雅史, is a Japanese tenor singer known for his versatility across classical and pop genres. His career began with the release of his single "千の風になって" (Sen no Kaze ni Natte) on May 24, 2006, which gained significant traction following his appearance on the 57th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen broadcast. The single reached Number 1 on the Oricon Singles Weekly Ranking on January 22, 2007, and has sold over 1,000,000 copies in Japan. Based on the poem "Do not stand at my grave and weep," the song was later used as a requiem for the victims of the MV Sewol ferry disaster in 2014. Akikawa's discography includes the EPs ねがい (released February 18, 2009) and あすという日が (September 21, 2011). His ability to blend classical training with contemporary styles has made him a notable figure in Japanese music. Akikawa's performances often feature a mix of traditional opera arias and modern compositions, showcasing his technical prowess and emotional depth. He has also been featured in various television dramas, including Barefoot Gen (2007), further expanding his reach beyond the concert hall. Throughout his career, Akikawa has continued to release music that resonates with audiences, solidifying his place as a respected tenor in Japan's diverse musical landscape.