Shigeichi Negishi, credited as one of the inventors of karaoke, passed away of natural causes on Jan. 26 at age 100, according to his family, The Wall Street Journal reports. Negishi is known for his innovation in automating and commercializing the singalong experience in 1967 with his “Sparko Box.” The device was the first to integrate a microphone, speaker, and tape deck. Despite not patenting his creation, the All-Japan Karaoke Industrialist Association recognizes Negishi’s device as the earliest karaoke machine.
While another inventor, Daisuke Inoue, is also widely acknowledged for inventing the karaoke machine with his 8 Juke model in 1971, Negishi’s idea paved the way for karaoke machines. Negishi had initially placed around 8,000 Sparko Boxes in various locations across Japan, including restaurants, though his venture didn’t gain traction, leading him to exit the karaoke business in 1975. However, as major manufacturers invested in the concept, karaoke exploded worldwide, becoming a popular form of leisure for people of all ages.
Luis Apolo Staff Reporter junior/1618902263/1613367813
1. When did Shigeichi Negishi pass away?
2. What was the name of Negishi's innovation in 1967?
3. How many Sparko Boxes did Negishi initially place in various locations across Japan?
4. Who is another inventor credited with inventing the karaoke machine, and what was the name of his model?
1. Have you ever used a karaoke machine? If yes, where and when?
2. What do you think makes karaoke a popular form of leisure?
3. Do you think it's important to recognize inventors like Negishi for their contributions? Why or why not?
4. Have you ever encountered a situation where a new idea didn't gain traction initially but later became successful? If yes, please share.
Shigeichi Negishi, credited as one of the inventors of karaoke, passed away of natural causes on Jan. 26 at age 100, according to his family, The Wall Street Journal reports. Negishi is known for his innovation in automating and commercializing the singalong experience in 1967 with his “Sparko Box.” The device was the first to integrate a microphone, speaker, and tape deck. Despite not patenting his creation, the All-Japan Karaoke Industrialist Association recognizes Negishi’s device as the earliest karaoke machine.
