Interview with Kanako Hara

Kanako Hara, a multi-talented artist from Japan, excels as a pianist, composer, and sound producer. Her impressive portfolio includes the production of numerous original soundtracks (OSTs) for television series, notably contributing to the captivating opening music of "Miyane-ya", one of Japan's most popular TV news programs. Her creative endeavors extend beyond television, encompassing the realms of animation, drama, and musicals.

Tokyo City Pop vol.1: Portrait, is set to be released on June 7th. Produced by Hara herself, this EP showcases her artistic vision. The recent digitally-released lead single Tonight is the night feat. Kyoko has set the stage for an exhilarating musical experience.

Embodying the concept of "NEO TOKYO POP SOUND", the EP embraces a contemporary fusion of Tokyo's vibrant musical landscape. Hara’s creative prowess shines throughout, as she has penned all six songs, ensuring a cohesive and authentic expression of her artistry.

What initially inspired you to pursue a career in music?

Kanako Hara: I had been studying as a classical pianist, but after graduation, I met a pop singer and started performing live in the pop genre, which led me to start composing music as well.

Can you describe your creative process when composing music?

Kanako Hara: Usually, I make the music while I am playing the piano. In the case of band music, I arrange it using a DAW (digital audio workstation). Sometimes I start by creating rhythm or by handwriting the score.

What do you believe is the most important aspect of music production?

Kanako Hara: For me, it is ensuring that the music is catchy and able to move me emotionally.

How do you approach collaborating with other artists?

Kanako Hara: I think it is a wonderful thing because it allows me to approach my music from a different perspective and broaden the musical landscape even further.

Who is your biggest musical influence?

Kanako Hara: It is Ryuichi Sakamoto. I love his curiosity and approach to music, and I love his work.

Can you talk about a particularly challenging project you’ve worked on, and how you overcame any obstacles?

Kanako Hara: It was this city pop album. I had mainly made instrumental works with my piano playing at the forefront until now, but this time, the entire album was vocal music, and it was my first time making a composer/sound producer-oriented work in which my playing did not take center stage. Although I was able to make it without feeling uncomfortable about my own work, I think I was able to improve the overall image and completeness of the work by imagining the entire picture more certainly than before.

How do you balance your roles as a pianist, composer, and sound producer?

Kanako Hara: Until now, I have had many performance jobs as a pianist or composer jobs as a pianist, but by making this album, I think I took a step forward as a sound producer. I want to continue to tackle everything with all my might because different things can be gained from each job.

How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue creating music?

Kanako Hara: I always have music in my head, but I can only make a song when I really want to make it. I just have to wait for that moment.

Could you provide further details about your forthcoming EP Tokyo City Pop vol.1?

Kanako Hara: It is the first album I have made incorporating city pop elements. While city pop is a worldwide movement, the fact that it is my own music, incorporating the atmosphere, sound, and rhythm of city pop, does not change. I tried to create a sound that is nostalgic yet still feels fresh when listened to today.

What do you hope listeners take away from your music?

Kanako Hara: I would be happy if they could feel the freshness of the fusion of Japan's city pop sound from the '70s and '80s with the music that I, living in the present, have created.

JaME would like to thank Kanako Hara for taking the time to speak with us.

Don't forget to check out Tokyo City Pop vol.1: Portrait, releasing on June 7th across digital platforms and streaming services worldwide.

In the meantime, you can listen to the lead single Tonight is the Night feat. Kyoko on Spotify and Apple Music now. For more updates on Kanako Hara, make sure to follow her on Twitter.