Fine '09 August
Q: What do you like to eat the most in the summer?
A: Bing cherry!
Q: Well then, where do you like to go the most in the summer?
A: The sea!
Q: What should one do to become a sparkling woman?
A: Let your feelings be activated with girl talk!
Q: In the summer, who do you want to be with the most?
A: With girls!
Q: Well, what sports do you like to do in the summer?
A: Surfing!
Q: What was the most impressive thing about the scenery in Guam, where you shot your PV?
A: The colour of the sky!
Q: In the summer, what kind of girl shines the brightest?
A: A person who’s in love!?
Q: What do you like to do when you’ve got free time?
A: Watch a movie.
Q: In the summer, what kind of appearance do you want to show the most?
A: One with fluorescent and vivid, flashy colours!
We've heard what Kuu-chan wants to do most this summer! And as the conversation progressed, we were impressed with her strong ambition and hard work! She expressed the desire to experience new things, in order to be able to make the best of new activities! This summer, we also, without giving up, want to experience several things in order to make ourselves grow strong!
This summer, I want everyone to have more fun!
-----I went to see you live. It was a large-scale production and I had a great time! You’re often struck with such ideas, aren’t you?
Kuu: I thought about my various experiences of this year. Because there was more time for me to think than the last time, it was a performance packed with various feelings. But, every year, the biggest hurdle is to exceed last year’s performance. I must always keep moving upward in order to make a performance where people who went to see me once, will bring their friends, lovers and family along the next time.
-----For people who aren’t your fans to still have a good time?
Kuu: Yes, I want to make a performance that’s enjoyable for everyone, even if they haven’t listened to my albums before. Moreover, I want people who wonder “what’s Koda Kumi like?” to think “she’s great!”. I’ll keep trying (laughs). That’s why I try my hardest and prepare surprise performances. I want to thank my staff. Because they have responded to the things I’ve said, I can proudly say, “this year’s performance went great!”.
-----Because all the things you’ve accumulated have come to fruition, right?
Kuu: Though I’ve certainly debuted like I said I wanted, there were also some wishes which didn’t come true. But, even if there are things which I can’t do, I’ll try my best at the things which I can. I’m still glad I’ve had such a period. Because it’s become a stimulus for me to always try my best if I want something I wish for to become a reality. Good lyrics, performances, clothes, goods etc.; because, at that time, I was as fixated as I could be on those things, everything up ‘till now is connected.
-----In your new PV, this determination can be felt, even in the small and cute details.
Kuu: Thank you. But, it’s really like that. Even if it’s only one ball pen, there are a lot of cute things. The small details are important. Even if you cut corners for just a little bit, I think fans will absolutely notice it. Because I pay attention to everything, my staff also pays a lot of attention and that’s why we create great things together!
-----What are you the most influenced by to maintain such feelings and awareness?
Kuu: Firstly, the feeling of wanting to surprise my waiting fans with great things. After that, the collaboration with Fergie, working overseas, the chance to work with experienced artists etc.; such things fire me up. I have to make works of which I’m glad to have made them together. I think I have to firmly watch my surroundings in order to not make self-centered works. I also go to performances of respectful Japanese artists, or just watch the DVD. In the past I didn’t watch them very often (laughs). And, because lots of great artists possess qualities which I don’t have, it encourages me to sincerely appreciate them. You must discover things which others haven’t.
-----That’s very hard, isn’t it!
Kuu: No, I want to do things with such feelings! Because lots of people are involved, I can’t cut corners. My life is also passing by. Now is only now. Maintaining my style and power of expression, absorbing several things, growing, progressing etc.; I have to keep doing such things. Also, it’s very important for me that everyone is happy. There are a lot of things that sound beautiful, but there are also a lot of things which I can’t do.
-----Lastly, what do you want to do the most this summer?
Kuu: There are a lot of events this year. I want to let everyone have a good time at every single event. More than having a good time myself, I want to try my utmost best to let everyone else have a great time!
~translated by tenshi no hane @AHS~