Kanako Hara on City Pop, Soundtracks, and Ryuichi Sakamoto

The multifaceted musician describes what inspires and informs her song-making process.

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them?

My music is often described as cinematic and full of imagery. I love creating instrumental pieces that let people imagine their own stories. But at the same time, I enjoy blending all kinds of genres and turning them into [what feels] uniquely mine.

What is the story behind how your music career began?

After the big earthquake in Japan in 2011, I lost my job. At that difficult time, I met a pop singer and started performing live with them, learning more about chords and music along the way. That experience made me realize how much I love composing. From there, I began writing my own songs and even started performing solo.

What are the biggest sources of inspiration for your music?

Ryuichi Sakamoto is my favorite composer, but I find inspiration everywhere. I often discover songs that influence me when I'm working on new music or film scores. It could be music I hear by chance on the street, the sounds of nature during a walk, or a song recommended by a friend. All of those moments can spark new ideas for me.

What is your song-making process like?

For me, it often starts with the piano. Playing helps shape the music naturally. When it comes to city pop, the rhythm section - especially the bass and drums - is really important, so sometimes I begin by programming the rhythm. When composing for film or TV, I imagine the scenes as I play, and the melodies naturally come to me.

What is your advice for someone trying to learn to play the piano?

Find a song you love and start there. Of course, learning the basics is important, but I think it's a waste to see it as hard work and build walls for yourself. If you love music and have the desire to play your favorite songs, you'll definitely improve over time!

What are some of the proudest moments of your career so far?

I work as a composer, an artist performing solo, and a supporting musician. Balancing all three roles is definitely a challenge, but I believe each experience has taught me something important. That's something I'm proud of.

Please describe one of your newest singles!

With “Butterfly Scales,” I wanted to create something that feels both fresh and nostalgic within the city pop genre. One of my strengths is writing catchy melodies, and I think this song really reflects that. I've always been a fan of Asako Toki, so I wrote the song with her beautiful voice in mind.

Please describe your upcoming album, Tokyo City Pop Portrait vol.2, and how it is similar to and different from your past releases.

For Portrait 1, I focused on recreating the authentic sound of 70’s and 80’s Japanese city pop. With Portrait 2, I wanted to express more of my own personality. The lyrics were written by Sho Kurashina again, but this time, they feel more relatable and accessible to today's listeners.

What is something about the making of Portrait 2 that people would be surprised to learn?

One track from the album, “Ichirin no Kiss,” was my first time trying [the] new jack swing [genre]. Originally, I planned to use a riff from a famous Japanese pop song, but I couldn't get permission, so I completely rearranged the song just a few days before recording. In the end, I was really happy with the result! I think it turned out even better [than it would have with the original idea].

Out of all of your songs, which ones have the most interesting stories behind them?

One of my favorite works is The Sound Track. I'm especially proud of the arrangements and the overall sound. I created it hoping it could become the soundtrack to someone's everyday life.

Which of your song covers is your favorite, and why did you choose to make a cover of that song?

I've covered many of Ryuichi Sakamoto's songs on YouTube, but my favorite is definitely “Tong Poo,” which was also performed by YMO. It started as a fan request, but I've always loved that song. Sakamoto often performed it with two pianos, so arranging it for [one] piano was a fun challenge.

What are your short-term and long-term career goals?

I've always loved film music, so one of my biggest dreams is to compose for movies. I love working on dramas and anime too, but hearing my music in a movie theater would be a special moment for me. I also want to keep writing songs - city pop and beyond - and hopefully create both theme songs and full soundtracks. As a pianist, I want to continue performing and eventually play all over the world. I'll keep practicing to be ready for any project that comes my way.

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?

I hope my music can be part of your daily life. Please explore my songs. I'd love for them to accompany you in your everyday moments.

Learn more about Kanako Hara here, and check out some of the songs on her forthcoming album here!

Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of Kanako Hara.