INDEX
Fondness for Late 1990s Japanese Pop with R&B Elements
How were the tracks on the album created in order?
Salasa: Although I released “f e e l d o w n” in October last year, the first track created after deciding to make the album was “Shukufuku” (Blessing). The staff around me liked it, and I felt that if we developed this song, we might be able to see the next steps more clearly.
“Shukufuku” plays a pivotal role in the album.
Salasa: Most of my previous songs were created with Kota Matsukawa from w.a.u, but for this album, I wanted to explore new elements beyond the R&B sound we’ve worked with before. For “Shukufuku,” I invited Shuhei Nishida, whom I had been following for a while, to arrange the track. Originally, I planned to collaborate with various people on each song, but when I met Nishida for the first time, we hit it off so well. I felt like we had a special connection, and the director suggested, “Why not have Nishida handle everything?” So, we started from there, and in that sense, I think it really became the core of the album.
What aspects were you particularly interested in exploring this time?
Salasa: I wanted to create great pop music. Although many of the tracks ended up having a similar feel to my previous work, this was the significant difference.
What made you feel that way?
Salasa： I’m a huge fan of the Japanese pop scene from the late 1990s, with its R&B influences from artists like UA, CHARAS, and BONNIE PINK. I think the creativity in their music was truly exceptional. It might have been the unique energy and power of that era, but I’ve been thinking strongly since the beginning of this year about how to recreate that feeling in the Reiwa era.
Did you originally listen to pop music from that era?
Salasa： My mother listened to artists like UA and CHARAS. After becoming a musician myself, I grew even more inspired by them. I love music, but I also have a passion for art and fashion. From the beginning, I wanted to be seen not just as a musician but as someone who engages with culture as a whole. I find the blend of catchiness and edge in their music, along with their established creative identities and unique styles, ideal for me as a singer-songwriter.
When I arrived at the interview location, you introduced the two people who did your hair and makeup and styling. It’s actually the first time I’ve been introduced to staff by an artist during an interview.
Salasa: Really? Not everyone does that?
That made me think you must be someone who pays attention to all aspects of creativity, and hearing you talk about it confirms that. You’re involved in your own artwork, stage decorations, and even carefully select materials for your merchandise.
Salasa: I always want to work with people I admire, and I believe that I need to be responsible for the choices I make. When it comes to merchandise, I want people to feel that they’re paying for something with integrity, just as I do when I shop. I enjoy thinking about materials and decorations, so it’s something I genuinely enjoy doing.
