His father Nakamaro was deeply trusted by Empress Koken and held the reins of power, and in 758 Empress Koken abdicated the throne to Prince Oi (Emperor Junnin), who was recommended by Nakamaro, while Nakamaro was appointed to the position of Taiho (Udaijin [Minister of the Right]) and given the name of EMI no Oshikatsu.
父の仲麻呂は孝謙天皇の信任厚く、権勢を欲しいままにし、天平宝字2年（758年）、孝謙天皇が譲位して、仲麻呂が推す大炊王が即位すると（淳仁天皇）、仲麻呂は太保（右大臣）に任ぜられ、恵美押勝の名を与えられた。