While digital music is the norm in today’s society, vinyl records seem to be gaining recognition once again. Of course it’s easier to enjoy music using streaming services. But maybe you feel more immersed when you’re listening to records while sipping a drink. Located just a five-minute walk from Yokohama Station, Music Bar 45 creates just such an environment with numerous records and high-end audio.
Owner Kei Maki is originally from Shizuoka, but relocated to Yokohama at the age of nineteen. Influenced by both his dad who was a conductor of a school symphony band and radio shows he loved listening to, he became interested in hip hop and R&B music. After learning on a radio show that Yokohama was a hot spot for music, he decided to work at a club in the city. He then became involved in establishing restaurants. As he was approaching his 40s, he thought of creating a space that wasn’t a club where customers could listen to music. Music Bar 45 was thus born November 2023. Besides Maki, there are usually two bartenders serving drinks such as craft gin (¥1320~), vodka (¥1100~), and cocktails (¥1100~).
According to Maki, since the bar is close to Yokohama Station, customers tend to be a mix of nationalities and ages (from mid-20 to 60s). The records are curated by DJ Kenta, a Yokohama-based DJ who’s collaborated with world-famous musicians. The lineup includes many different genres, including old and recent releases. Some days guest DJs create the day’s playlist, offering you the opportunity to discover and appreciate new genres. If you’re looking to get away from the tumult of daily life and immerse yourself in music, Music Bar 45 hits all the right notes.