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Sanae Takaichi, set to become Japan’s first female Prime Minister, went viral for singing X Japan’s “Rusty Nail” in 2016.
Takaichi has served in prominent roles, including minister of economic security, internal affairs, and gender equality. (X)
As Sanae Takaichi is set to become Japan’s first female Prime Minister, an old video of the 64-year-old leader has resurfaced on social media platforms where she is seen singing X Japan’s classic rock anthem “Rusty Nail” on television.
The now viral video, reportedly filmed in 2016 on a karaoke show, has been widely shared across Japanese social media platforms.
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Now that LDP lawmaker Takaichi Sanae is once again being spoken of as a contender to become Japan’s next Prime Minister, people are re-sharing an old 2016 clip of her singing X Japan’s “Rusty Nail” on a karaoke TV show. pic.twitter.com/vxw2gp3t8G— Jeffrey J. Hall 🇯🇵🇺🇸 (@mrjeffu) September 12, 2025
Known for their blend of aggressive high-speed metal and dramatic symphonic ballads, X Japan is one of the country’s most influential rock groups. Their 1994 single, “Rusty Nail,” remains a fan favorite and a testament to their style.
Who Is Sanae Takaichi?
Sanae Takaichi is poised to become the country’s first female Prime Minister, after the 64-year-old leader was elected as President of Japan’s long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
According to local media reports, Takaichi has vowed to enhance female participation in the Tokyo cabinet. The 64-year-old is ultra-conservative, with her views and positions chiming more with men than women.
As per Associated Press, female lawmakers in the LDP, often assigned minor ministerial positions, are frequently marginalised when pushing for diversity and gender equality.
Takaichi began her political career in 1993 when she was elected to Japan’s lower house of parliament as an independent from her hometown of Nara. She joined the LDP in 1996 and has since remained a prominent figure within its conservative wing.
Over the years, she has held several ministerial portfolios, including Internal Affairs and Communications, Economic Security, and Gender Equality. Despite holding positions linked to women’s empowerment, her policy outlook has reflected the traditionalist stance of the party’s senior leadership.
In 2023, she lost the LDP leadership contest to Shigeru Ishiba. Two years later, she returned to the race and won, campaigning on economic recovery, stricter immigration control, and national security.
About the Author
Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben…Read More
Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben… Read More
Tokyo, Japan
October 04, 2025, 23:28 IST
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