INTERVIEW ~ Kaya: November 9, 2008
Los Angeles, CA
Solo artist Kaya made his US debut at Pacific Media Expo in Los Angeles, CA. We got a chance to sit down for a tête-à-tête with him.
This is your first time in America. Did you think that you would ever be able to perform outside of Japan?
Ah, going overseas was something that's been on my mind in the past few years. So yes, but just when I was getting started that wasn't something that I ever expected.
What expectations did you have prior to coming here?
I was most interested in seeing how fans would react differently. But once I got started, at the concert I saw that the fan reaction isn’t so different from Japanese fans. But the American fans were much more energetic.
What did you feel from the audience?
I really felt that the audience was very passionate! And I felt that many members of the audience were really waiting for the concert to start and I was very happy to see that.
So far you've had a pretty successful solo career. When you first started however, what goals did you have in mind-- do you think that you've met them?
I don’t think I've reached a goal yet, but what I want to do and what I'm doing are things that have never been done before and also to bring on a change in the minds of my listeners.
You used to be in Schwarz Stein. Is there anything you miss about Schwarz Stein?
Nothing in particular.
What's your favorite thing about your solo career that you haven't been able to do with Schwarz Stein?
Schwarz Stein was a duo and I had to respect the imput and opinions from my partner, but as an entity by myself, I've been able to expand creatively. I can imagine, produce, and create music of my own ideas.
Do you think your music will continue in this direction, or do you think you will return to a more gothic sound in the future?
Hmm, it could go either way. It depends on what I'm feeling at the time. Right now my concept fits the pop sound better so that's why my music has gone in that direction. But as for the future, I can not tell. Right now I enjoy the current sound.
You made your major debut with your single, Chocolat. Has joining a major label changed your work?
It hasn't affected what I want to do personally with music. The sound and concept remains the same, but the switch to a major label allows me to reach a wider audience.
You generally incorporate dancers and drag queens in your performances. What do you add to the performance when you do this?
Elegance! I want to put on a show for my audience and make them feel as if they are witnessing a grand performance, such as in a theater. So I add the dancers and drag queens for this affect.
What is the "perfect" Kaya live performance?
Very spectacular with dancers and special effects and of course, I am wearing something very elaborate. The audience is really energetic and we, myself and the audience, are in sync with each other. Sharing and partaking of the same energy.
What is your favorite song to perform live?
I like peforming Glitter Arch. It embodies the whole live experience into one song.
What is your favorite costume?
They all have some sentimental meaning to me. Which of my costumes do you like the best?
I really liked the big, poofy white dress you wore in your Chocolat video.
(laughs) Oh yes, that one. It is beautiful isn't it?
Can you tell us what went into making your live DVD, Salon de Chocolat?
With this DVD I wanted to show fans a wider scope of my world. The live is very elaborate and a lot of my thoughts and ideas went into the creation of it so I would definitely urge fans to check it out. It's very special and dear to me. It gives a good overall impression of what I feel make live performances stand out and can be enjoyed by anyone.
You're releasing your next single, Last Snow, on December 24. Can you tell us a little about that?
Ah yes, this is a Christmas themed song. It's different from anything I've released before, so I hope fans will look forward to it!
You are giving us your music for Christmas, but what would youlike for Christmas?
Hmmm.... A new lover! (laughs coyly)
What are your goals for next year? Is there anything new you would like to try?
I would like to perform overseas more! After having performed once in the USA I really want to perform everywhere my fans are.
Is that a hint that you're coming back?
Yes! Eventually.
OK. If you could be any flavor ice cream, what would you be?
(giggles) What do you think?
I don't know. Neopolitan? (laughs)
(laughs) I think I'd be... (pauses and thinks) Strawberry! (smiles)
What was your favorite thing to do as a child?
I was imaginative as a child and I've always had a fascination with beauty. I often times would dress up even if the occasion wasn't anything special.
Ah, we couldn't help but notice that your water bottle is wearing a dress.
Ah this? I like to accessorize everything. I have three more of these. It makes it look more delicate doesn't it?
(Note: Kaya's water bottle was wearing an elegant lace skirt)
Do you have a message for our readers?
I never imagined I would get to perform in the USA but now that I have I'm very grateful. I will definitely be looking to come back and see all your wonderful faces. Please continue to support me! I love you!
interview by Sarah and Antonia; photos by Antonia
Thanks to Kaya for taking the time to answer our questions; thanks to PMX for making this possible.
links
Kaya Official Website
Kaya Official MySpace
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