For its Retrospective Anime Festival, Geneon brought in I've Sound's superstar KOTOKO to give a special concert performance at Anime Expo 2005. A relative newcomer in the world of anime music, KOTOKO burst onto the scene with catchy theme songs for anime such as Onegai Teacher and Onegai Twins.

This being her first concert in North America, KOTOKO gave con-goers a real treat with a rocking, hall-shaking performance. Backed by a full band and two, in her words, "sexy dancers," KOTOKO pumped out a variety of songs in a range of styles. From Rock 'n' Roll to trance-pop, KOTOKO's extremely versatile voice and charismatic energy kept the audience on its feet. With a new single Chi Ni Kaeru from Starship Operators, her popularity is only increasing in Japan and with a successful debut at Anime Expo 2005 in North America, as well. I was fortunate enough to have a chance to sit down KOTOKO and ask the talented star a few questions.

AA: You've sold out some pretty large stadiums in Japan, and your first North American concert was in a hall that only seated a few thousand people. How did you feel about performing in such a small concert hall?

KOTOKO: Actually, it was probably one of my largest concerts! (laughs)

AA: You said at your concert that you were really nervous. Was that because you weren't sure an American audience would like your music?

KOTOKO: (nods) Yes.

AA: As a Japanese musician, does it take any special effort to put on a concert in the United states?

KOTOKO: Well, first of all, I wanted the audience over here to be able to relate to my songs, so that was probably my main concern. Also, in between songs, I wanted to as much as possible communicate with the audience, so I took some extra time to learn some English. So those are the extra things I did to prepare myself.

AA: You made an extra effort to talk to your audience in English, and you could tell that they appreciated it a lot. Is it important to you to communicate with all of your fans, even in the United States, even though there is a language barrier?

AA: I noticed that you have two very distinct singing styles, one of which is a little more mature sounding and the other which is really young sounding and cute. Do you write songs specifically for each singing style?

KOTOKO: Yes, there is a different way that I write. When I write a more mature sounding song, I get into a more mature frame of mind. When I'm writing a more childish type of song, I try to make it as fun as possible, so there is a difference in the songwriting.

AA: Some of your songs sound very Rock 'n' Roll, while others are more electronic-pop or pop sounding. Do you have a certain style that you like to perform better?

KOTOKO: I really like them both, so I would like to continue doing them both.

AA: During your concert, you had several costume changes. Do you design your own costumes, and what significance do they have during your show?

KOTOKO: I do design them! I sort of draw out a costume that I would like to wear and get together with a stylist who actualizes it and makes the costume. The kimono style costume that you saw, I actually saw that in a store, so it was something that I bought to wear on stage. But yes, I do input my design and what I want to wear. Costumes, in terms of live performance, I feel really hold a significant meaning. It's really important.

AA: You were recruited and perform as part of I've Sound. What's that like?

KOTOKO: Initially, when I joined I've Sound, I was very unfamiliar. I didn't know the game-song industry even existed; it was something very new to me. But I am very happy I was able to join. They have really influenced me positively, and I'm very happy to be part of I've Sound.

AA: So you write the music for your songs, too?

KOTOKO: Yes, I do.

AA: Who are your musical influences?

KOTOKO: There are a lot of artists that influenced me, but in the very beginning I started out liking The Carpenters. Today my favourite is Björk; I like her originality.

AA: What is your favorite song?

KOTOKO: Umm… (in English) Just one? (laughs) Hmm… (in Japanese) It's too hard to narrow it down to one. (puts head on table) I can't choose! (laughs)

AA: Have you had any chances to meet American fans while you've been here?

KOTOKO: I had an autograph session a couple of times, so I was able to meet them face to face.

AA: How do you think American fans are different from Japanese fans?

KOTOKO: I don't see any major differences between them. They are both very warm to me.

AA: What can we expect to hear from you in future projects?

KOTOKO: Yes.

AA: What is your favorite anime?

KOTOKO: Inuyasha.

AA: Do you think you'll be coming back to North America for any more concerts?

KOTOKO: It's not fixed at this time, but I would definitely want to come back.

AA: That's all the questions I have. Thank you very much, it has been an honor.

KOTOKO: Thank you very much.