If you read my coverage of LiSA’s concert, “LiVE is Smile Always～15～”, you already know I was an absolute emotional wreck during the show. But the hype didn’t end when the stage lights went down, because I actually got to sit in on a group media interview with the anime opening queen herself.
Here is everything she spilled about her journey, the Malaysian crowd, and her post-show rituals.
Disclaimer: These sentences have been paraphrased for ease of reading.
1. When you perform in Southeast Asia, these are markets that discovered you largely through anime rather than traditional radio or TV. Does the crowd in Malaysia and Southeast Asia in general feel different or special to you in any way?
My very first overseas trip was actually to Singapore. I was totally surprised back then by how massive anime and anime music culture was internationally. Fast forward to yesterday, I finally threw my first headline show in Malaysia, which was one of my greatest performances ever.
I was incredibly happy that fans were singing along to all my tracks, and yes, including Crossing Field. No matter what era they were from, having the whole crowd sing with me was a truly great moment for me.
2. Your last gig in Malaysia was way back during Penang Anime Matsuri in 2016. How did it feel coming back for a solo concert?
I feel that I have completely “powered up” as a musician since then, but the crowd has fully powered up too. The synergy and energy exchange with the fans yesterday was absolutely outstanding.
3. We all witnessed your explosive energy and high-intensity moves on stage. So, what is the very first thing you do when you get back to your hotel to recover?
The ultimate goal is to dive in bed. But before I completely pass out, I type out my raw feelings while I am still riding that concert high. I then have my local team translate those thoughts and post them to social media. I do this because I want to share my excitement with fans worldwide and read everyone’s reactions and comments.
4. What was the exact turning point that made you realise you wanted to dedicate your life to music?
I have wanted to be a singer ever since I was a little kid. But the moment it got real was when I sang for the anime Angel Beats as the voice of Yui. I realized just how many people were listening to my voice through that specific character. That was the exact moment it clicked that my singing could truly connect with and deliver feelings to people, cementing my decision to live my life as a musician.
5. This is your first headline concert in Malaysia, and tickets sold out quickly. How did you feel about this?
It was a surprise. I didn’t really expect for the tickets to sell out, so when I saw the crowd on the day of the concert, I went all out from there.
6. Growing up, who were your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your style today?
The first musical group I heard of was a group called Speed from Japan; I have listened to their music since I was young. Then I listened to more punk rock artists, such as Avril Lavigne and Green Day. I also listened to a mix of artists, including hardcore, idol, and emo musicians, which has shaped my music now.
This interview honestly just made me stan her even harder. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go blast “Shirushi” and cry again.
