Who is Yuka?

(C)Oken

Who is Yuka?

Photo coming! My name is Yuka Ogura, and I am a Carpenters specialist in Yokohama, Japan. Well, I used to be Yuko Ogura until April 2003 and I am calling myself a bit differently now. I have been working in the music industry for over 20 years and have worked in various fields in the business such as an international A&R, interpreter, translator, and a writer.

My son took this photo in April 2002.

I started writing linernotes for Carpenters' Japanese releases in mid 80's, and I have written and translated all the Carpenters releases currently in the Japanese market.I have appeared on television specials--including E! entertainment--and have shared my knowledge and other background information about the duo.

To meet Carpenters and to work for them was the biggest dream I had in my teens. I never ever thought I would get to meet the man who created those magical harmony and sounds of Carpenters. Eventually, I made a deal with Kyodo Press to create The Mook, and had many opportunities to meet Richard Carpenter. He was extremely generous, granting me a day-long interview, inviting me to his recording studios, and searching for many pieces of the puzzle that were missing to complete my research. All of this allowed me to do an extensive research about their activities for the publication. He also provided his time to meet my Japanese tour group both in the backstage and at his famous Yesterday Once More warehouse. I also had a lot of fun going to amusement parks and taking his family shopping when they visited Japan, not just once but several times.

I still can't believe how fortunate I am. Not only to have met the artist himself, but also to meet and get to know so many wonderful people through fan mailing lists; it makes me very happy. I have made such great friends over the internet, and the whole thing evolving around Carpenters has become an integral part of my life.

Because I have contacts with the record company and the artist, I have been like a bridge between the officials and the fans. I think that is the least I can do for people who have dreamed about meeting Carpenters and still wait for their new records. But now in 2006, Richard has his own website and he can make his announcement and release an accurate info regarding new releases etc by himself. My role as a bridge has been changing and still I remain someone who can bring something from Japan to the rest of the world.

I occasionally mail out a Carpenters' latest info newsletter to fans who want to keep informed. If you are interested, please sign up. The volume of email is super low. You will probably receive only one email per month or often times even less. Not chatting among members. This is a newsletter with solid information only.