Takase Toya is a self-made singer-songwriter who writes both his own music and lyrics, blending electronic, R&B, 80s’ pop, hip-hop, rock, and K-pop elements into a “genreless” sound. His reach spans over 80 countries, including the U.S. and Europe, earning more than 3.5 billion streams on Spotify alone.
Last month, we had the honour of attending Takase Toya’s first-ever concert in Malaysia, where he treated visitors to songs from his latest album, 8. We also had the exciting opportunity to speak to him ahead of the show, where he shared some of his personal thoughts and experiences with us.
Disclaimer: Some sentences have been paraphrased for ease of reading.
1. Since this is your first time performing in Malaysia, what excites you most about being here?
Being able to sing in Malaysia is, for me, “the moment when a dream crosses into a new world.” It’s my first time here; yet somehow I feel a strange sense of nostalgia. I believe it’s because, through music, our hearts have already been connected for a long time.
This night isn’t just a concert for me, but a sort of ‘first anniversary’ where I get to meet everyone in Malaysia for the first time. After the show, I want everyone to feel, “From today, I love this country and this music even more.“
I’m truly looking forward to that moment when my voice melts into the Malaysian air and becomes one with everyone’s smiles.
2. What was the turning point or inspiration that made you realize you wanted to dedicate yourself to music?
Music was both an escape and an answer for me. In my teens, when the world felt completely dark, only music brought light to my life. One day, I suddenly thought, “If my voice can bring light to someone else’s darkness, maybe that’s my reason to live.” From that moment on, I never looked back.
3. Growing up, who were your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your style today?
Justin Bieber. He stood in the center of the world, and proved that dreams can become reality. Hearing his voice made me believe in the possibility of connecting with the world through music. Even now, the way he lives continues to push me forward.
4. When you start creating a new song, what usually comes first for you? The melody, the lyrics, or a particular emotion?
Emotion. A kind of explosion happens inside me, and its fragments turn into melodies and words. That’s why my songs aren’t explanations, but are closer to something like “body temperature”.
5. Do you have a routine when writing or composing, or does inspiration usually strike spontaneously?
I don’t have a fixed routine, but the night is my best companion. The silence of midnight feels like a light that shines into my heart. Inspiration often strikes then, so my phone is always overflowing with memos.
6. How do you usually prepare yourself mentally and emotionally before stepping on stage?
I take a deep breath, carrying my nerves and fears with me. I also keep in mind that I don’t need to be perfect; in fact, I feel like being in that “imperfect” state allows me to complete the moment together with the audience. That’s what I hold onto before stepping out.
7. If you had to describe your music in three words, what would they be and why?
“Space,” “scars,” and “journey.”
- “Space” is the canvas for listeners to write their own stories.
- “Scars” are proof of pain and regret, and I hope to be able to stay close to those who carry them.
- “Journey” is the experience of walking with my listeners toward unseen landscapes.
8. What message or feeling do you want your fans to experience most strongly through your work?
I’d like to express that “loneliness is a burden that can be shared through music“. Everyone has dark times that they have to face alone, but if my voice can be a small lamp that lights up the darkness, then that’s enough for me. I’m not a superhero, but through music, I believe I can save someone’s world.
We’d like to once again thank Takase Toya and his team for the interview opportunity! Connect with Takase Toya through YouTube, Instagram, and his official website for the latest news, tour updates, and exclusive announcements.
