Mirei
Our interview with Mirei
Jpoprocks.com: We heard you studied abroad in the US for a time. Could you tell us what that was like?
Mirei: I studied in NYC when I was in 8th grade. Being in a new culture and great music influenced me so much. Personally, the biggest thing I got from the experience is that even though we live in different places, speak different languages, inside we are almost the same. Good music, performances, and vibes are everywhere. That’s when I gained confidence in my music.
JPR: You won Japan's biggest dance competition when you were 10 years old. How was that experience?
Mirei: That was 2-on-2 dance battle in Osaka, which is my hometown. Actually, I participated with Misaki. We’re old friends since then, haha.
Back then, I was just enjoying dancing. It felt like I won while I was expressing my excitement, and by dancing so hard. Maybe that joy moved the judges.
JPR: We saw you perform with Dancing Dolls at SacAnime and Anime Matsuri in 2017. What was your experience performing with them?
Mirei: Thank you for watching us! It was super great time. Actually, since they were my Senpai, and I was little nervous being on the same stage with them. But as soon as show started, the audience was so charged up, and I got very excited too! That was one of the best experiences I had in 2017. I love the American audience. They’re so active. AND don’t miss SacAnime Winter 2018, because Misaki and Mii from Dancing Dolls and I will perform together as a special collaboration again.
JPR: You've appeared at several Anime conventions. What do you think of these conventions and their fans?
Mirei: It’s awesome! It makes me proud of my country, Japan’s culture. The thing I love most about conventions are the cosplay! Everyone is dressed as his or her favorite anime character, and they all look so cute. As a matter of fact, I am a big fan of the “Love Live!” series. When I saw the cosplayers dressed as members of Love Live!, I asked them to take a picture together. I feel like everyone is my friend at a convention.
JPR: Was there anyone or anything that inspired you to be an artist?
Mirei: Since I was a child, I really loved singing. My favorite TV show was “e-Kara” which is a karaoke game. I loved singing Morning Musume on e-Kara. When I was in 2nd grade of elementary school, I started to learn how to dance and I had no doubts then that I was going be an artist. Sounds very funny now!
JPR: How did you get involved with music?
Mirei: I’ve been involved with music since I was very young. My parents love music, and they always played some music in my house or in our car. So, it was very natural for me to sing along and dance to it. I don’t remember it, but I was apparently was making original songs when I was 3 years old, haha. I was filled with music that much! After I started listening to my own favorite songs, my love for music became bigger and bigger. Most of them were so-called US Top 40 type of songs, and that’s why I dreamed to go to NYC.
JPR: If you could collaborate with any musical artist you wanted, who would it be and why?
Mirei: I really love Rihanna! I’ve loved her since I was very young. If I could collaborate with her, I want to do some sexy songs I’ve never tried. Sounds so exciting! Haha.
And also, Charli XCX. She is my new icon. Her fusion of Kawaii culture and UK culture is awesome. I really want to be part of that!
JPR: Can you tell us something unique about yourself?
Mirei: I love bubble tea so much. People say I’m crazy about it. Many famous bubble tea shops launched in Japan and I love tasting them. I talk about the difference between each shop, but most people don’t understand it. I’m so sad! Bubble tea is the most precious of all the sweets in my life. I need some friends who can share this feeling with me.
JPR: What can we look forward to from you in 2018?
Mirei: I’m preparing some new songs. They’re coming soon. I’m sure you’ll like it!
Also, I’ll be 20 years old in July! I’m finally an adult and will be able to drink alcohol, maybe not in the US, but in Japan!. Maybe, not being a teenager anymore will help me widen my expressions.
In any event, I want to be a bigger artist in both Japan and worldwide. Also, I’ve never done a solo concert, so hopefully it’ll be possible this year. I have many dreams to be honest. Support me! haha
JPR: Do you have any message for your American fans you would like to share?
Mirei: Hi! This is Mirei. I’ll be at SacAnime Winter 2018, and I’m really excited to meet my American fans again! Even though we’re far away, we’re connected by my music. This connection is very precious to me. Thank you for being my fans. I’ll make more good music and I promise to make you happy.
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