J-pop star, Harajuku Kawaii TV host, and Asobi model, Una is a multi-talented mind intent on accomplishing her dreams, so we were very curious to pick her brain about her first live musical performance in the U.S. tonight at the El Rey. She was kind enough to answer a few questions about her upcoming show, Japanese fashion vs. L.A. fashion, and reveals one of her favorite pastimes, enjoying Japanese food!
First and foremost, thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview. We’re very excited to see you perform on Friday for your first performance in the U.S. Are you excited about sharing your music with an American audience?
Yes, absolutely! I’m really excited to be playing in the United States.
Not only are you a singer but you’re also a model for Asobi System as well, correct? Is it difficult to balance both?
Yeah, correct! I wouldn’t consider it to be difficult, they’re both things I love! Doing what you love is hard to consider difficult.
Your single Juicy Juicy was picked up for a Mentos Advertisement. How was your experience on the shoot of the commercial?
Honestly, I was nervous because it was my first time shooting a commercial and on top of that, the shoot was in Los Angeles, also a first time experience. The whole schedule was a little intimidating, but once I got here the staff was awesome and it ended up being a pretty relaxing experience. They even gave me flowers! :)
As a fashion model in Japan, what’s your impression of American style and in particular L.A. style?
A lot of my personal style and fashion inspiration comes from Los Angeles! I especially admire the hip-hop culture here. I really adore it.
I remember seeing you wearing a Raiders Jersey in your Juicy Juicy music video. Did you happen to bring that on this tour to L.A.?
Ah, no… not this time. However, I wear Raiders gear on a regular basis. This team is especially popular in Harajuku!
In recent years, Kawaii inspired music has been getting increasingly popular in the United States. Any thoughts on why Americans are becoming increasingly obsessed with the Kawaii culture?
I believe it’s because this very youthful take on fashion and culture is rarely seen outside of Japan. I’m really glad there are people who admire it!
You also have a weekly style show “Harajuku Kawaii“ showcasing Japanese fashion and culture. How did that come about?
I’ve recently become a regular host of the series. The channel debuted just a couple years ago and has been a really big success, it’s a lot of fun. Our channel showcases popular artists, models, and more. We usually go over topics like fashion and beauty tips or even popular foods or how to prepare them. Sometimes we’ll visit our favorite stores in the area! It’s a channel meant to give people a central view of Japanese culture.
So Anamanaguchi has been on tour in Japan playing with a few shows with you. Were you able to show them around Tokyo at all?
Sadly, I wasn’t able to. If I have an opportunity next time they’re in Japan, I will. Maybe even have them as guests on our channel. We played a show together though, that was a lot of fun.
Any fun tour stories from the road, our readers might enjoy?
I only recently debuted, maybe I can get back to you on this question next time! However I’ve really enjoyed touring around Japan and meeting fans. Also, a lot of Japanese food is exclusive to region, so it’s been great trying so many different things! I love food.
We can’t wait to see her perform tonight alongside Anamanaguchi, HEARTSREVOLUTION, and Meishi Smile for what is sure to be a spectacular show. Tickets are still available but won’t last long so be sure to get yours before they’re gone!
