Born in Tokyo, Japan on the 5th of June, 1954.
Emigrated to the US intending to become a fiction writer. Graduated from UCLA majoring in ethnic arts.
Started Kazu Matsui Project in 1981 with whom he has release 5 albums. Has also released 7 solo albums and has built up a career by playing the traditional Japanese Bamboo Flute, which can be heard on several movie soundtracks such as Empire of the Sun and Shogun.
His wife Keiko Matsui has released several jazz fusion albums which Kazu has produced.