Second generation Japanese are becoming prominent in the art and music industry. If I was to name one in the music industry, it will be singer-songwriter SATSUKI.
Born and raised in Sydney Australia, SATSUKI picked up a guitar at the age of 15, writing about young love, loss of friendship and the burdens that come with being a teenager.
You might remember her as the lead vocalist for alternative-rock band 'Cartoon' who became "busking sensation" with a stint on Channel Seven's Weekend Sunrise -"Busking Boot Camp"
SATSUKI decided to pursue her solo career when the Cartoon era came to an end, making the big decision to move back to her country, Japan.
SATSUKI says that there was no one major reason or event that allowed the decision.
"I realized that I did not know the culture (of Japan) well and I waned to learn the language"
SATSUKI freely expresses herself through her music and does not confine herself to one genre Source: SATSUKI
"I couldn't believe how quiet the audiences were at live performances"
Although Japanese audiences would clap politely and have their full attention on SATSUKI's performance, there are no cheering or whistle blowing or any other random noises you may hear in an Australian live houses.
"It's difficult when there are long silences in between songs. I feel like I have to start a conversation" she laughs.
To overcome this, SATSUKI tries to engage the audience, and encourage them to be loud, like the Australian way.
But all this was pre-pandemic. In fact, Osaka, where SATSUKI resides is under state of emergency.
Unable to perform or busk, SATSUKI has focused this time to produce more music.
Her 4th single "Zoning Out" was produced in collaboration with another second-generation Japanese artist-Taka Perry.
With all international borders shut, "Zoning Out" was collaborated fully online.
The new release which is a combination of hyper pop, math rock, as well as J-pop is quite a change in genre from her previous works.
"I don't think I fit into any genre" says SATSUKI
"I like to combine them. Combine the genre I like and express myself through it"
In fact her style has not changed since her Cartoon days. Not confined to one genre, this is SATSUKI.
Perhaps the same can be said about her sexuality, who is also a self-proclaimed androgynous.
"I was still young when I realized I was different - I liked girls, I liked wearing pants more than dresses and skirts. It became more certain during my high school years, but by then I had friends who were also like me, so it was comforting"
The music video for "Zoning Out" was filmed in BnA Alter Museum in Kyoto - a hotel where each room has been designed and decorated by artists. The room created by artist Sato Sugamoto caught SATSUKI's attention.
"It exactly captured the image of Zoning Out"
Called "Double Dreams" the room depicts the intertwining of dream, the unconscious and reality.
BnA Alter Museum in Kyoto, where SATSUKI filmed the music video. Source: SATSUKI
SATSUKI is currently working on a EP and it will be a surprise for both the fans as well as SATSUKI.
"I guess we'll find out what genre it is when its completed!"
You can listen more here
LISTEN TO
ジャンルにとらわれず表現するジェンダーレス歌手SATSUKI
SBS Japanese
26/01/202116:10
