12.04.17 Vancouver Shinpo Exclusive Interview
On March 10th, at The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts located in downtown Vancouver, JIN AKANISHI's concert was taken place. Previously in KAT-TUN, now an individual artist of the Johnny's Jimusho, the valuable opportunity of seeing Akanishi Jin in Vacouver had the fans in huge excitement. Tons of audiences attended and surrounded the venue with a exciting atmosphere.
Vancouver Shinpo Exclusive Interview
Before the concert, Vancouver Shinpo had the chance to interview Akanishi Jin. Here we introduce the content.
Q: Congratulations on releasing the US debut album "JAPONICANA". Please tell us the charm of the album and the 2012 North America tour that goes with it.
A: Dance, hip-hop, pop etc, it's jammed with all different types of genres. It's fresh, new and myself. The concert is energetic, and includes loads of dance moves.
Q: Is this your first time in Canada?
A: It is. I have had the image that Canada is a nice place.
Q: We got to see you working with big producers like Stereotypes and others in recording on JIN AKANISHI's official youtube channel. Completely different region than in Japan, all conversations in English, you sure are working in a pressured environment.
A: I don't feel that pressured actually. They are people really easy to work with. It's like working with friends. Of course they're very talented.
Q: When working with American producers, we were impressed by Akanishi-san's smooth english pronunciation. There are also a lot of Japanese people studying English in Vancouver, any advice you have for learning English?
A: Thank you very much. But I'm still learning. The best I guess is to continue speaking with people.
Q: Being actively working in North America, Akanishi-san is for sure an inspiration to the Japanese working in North America as well. Do you have any messages for Japanese living in North America?
A: 自分が好きなことをすること。Just do what you love.
Q: Akanishi-san also produces your own music, in working with different artists like Jason Derulo, did your music direction change as an influence?
A: I wanted to be myself, but of course I'm influenced by other music writers and producers. In Jason Derulo's songs, he sings his name in the beginning of the songs, which gave quite an impression. That I think is very cool.
Q: Last year, Akanishi-san debuting in the hollywood film "47 RONIN" starring Keanu Reeves has became quite a topic. Although the filming has finished, how was the entire experience?
A: It was a very valuable experience. Keanu was very easy to work with. Also director Carl Rinsch is a person with loads of talent.
Q: What type of artist will JIN AKANISHI become after 10 years? Please tell us your future visions.
A: I think I'll still be doing what I had been doing in 10 years. Also, I have interest in working with directing films.
Q: Akanishi's specialty is soccer, in your busy schedules, do you find time to play or watch soccer?
A: I don't really have time to play soccer. But I often try to find time for soccer.
Q: Although you're working on a worldly stage, were you encouraged by people in Japan?
A: Of course. I especially thank my fans greatly.
Q: Many Canadians who haven't had contact with Japan will probably become Akanishi-san's fans. What do you want to get across to them as a Japan-born artist?
A: I just want them to enjoy my music. And through music, to get to know me.
Q: Please leave a message for fans in Canada.
A: What's up Canada! Thank you so much for supporting me.
original interview here