Yuji Hashi’s Dementia Battle and the Warm Memories His Disciples Reveal

It wouldn’t be surprising for someone of advanced age

“When I heard the news that he had developed dementia, I was shocked, wondering what would happen from here. Because no one but him can sing masterpieces like Itsudemo Yume wo with that voice.”

So says Kohei Shin (29), a member of Nidaime Hashi Yukio yH2 (hereafter Nidaime).

Nidaime is a group regarded as the beloved disciples of singer Yukio Hashi (82). After Hashi announced his retirement from singing in October 2021 (and later returned in April 2024), he voiced his regret that so many songs gifted to him by his mentors might go unheard. This led to a call for new singers, and from over 1,000 applicants, a male unit was formed, debuting in September 2023.

The announcement that Hashi had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s-type dementia came on May 20, made by Shigehiro Ishida, president of Yume Group, Hashi’s management. His condition is said to be moderate, with increasingly noticeable signs since last summer, such as repeating the same stories and forgetting lyrics.

Junpei Tokuoka (24), another Nidaime member, shared:

“We honestly didn’t recognize that Mr. Hashi was suffering from dementia. It’s true he would sometimes repeat the same topics, but for someone over 80, that wouldn’t seem strange. Now, we truly feel the weight of the word dementia.”

According to the members, Hashi has a bright personality, known for his love of ice cream and alcohol. His unexpected personal side is revealed through the words of his beloved disciples.

“I was so nervous during the Nidaime audition. In the second round, we had to sing his songs in front of Mr. Hashi, Mr. Ishida from Yume Group, and other judges, all watching with serious expressions. I chose Mr. Hashi’s debut song, Itako Gasa.

In the third round, four winners were chosen on the spot from the remaining ten applicants. I still remember what Mr. Hashi told us: ‘From now on, you’ll carry on my songs. But you don’t have to imitate me — I want you to sing them in your own way.’” (Tokuoka)

“Not satisfied with just a bento, so I had a sweet red bean bun too.”

Though Hashi has a serious image, the members of “Nidaime” say they don’t recall ever being scolded by him. He’s said to be friendly and incredibly kind to his juniors.

“He often comes to watch our rehearsals and gives us direct advice, using gestures like ‘You should move your body more here.’ We also share meals together in the dressing room a lot. Hashi-san really eats a lot — when the prepared bento isn’t enough, he’ll have a sweet red bean bun too.

Hashi-san has a big sweet tooth. His favorite is ice cream. While eating it, he jokes around with us, saying things like, ‘I love you more than anyone.’ He also enjoys drinking — beer, whisky, you name it. He’s such a cheerful, bright person.” (Shin)

Although cheerful, his demeanor changes completely right before going on stage.

“It’s like a switch flips. When he stands in the wings, you can almost hear a snap! sound, and suddenly his whole body radiates this aura. His posture becomes upright, like a star with a rod running down his back — it’s honestly mesmerizing.

Of course, it was a huge shock for us when his dementia diagnosis was announced. But Hashi-san himself is full of fighting spirit and still eager to keep singing. Whether it’s for one year or ten, we want to treasure every irreplaceable moment we have singing alongside him.” (Tokuoka)

Hashi and “Nidaime” are scheduled to continue performing together on the Yume Group’s 20th Anniversary Concert Tour through this summer.

The June 5th issue of FRIDAY is set to report in more detail — with rare photos — on Hashi’s true character and his current condition, as shared by the members of “Nidaime.”