Dreaming of being a Vocalist Singing in English

MANAMI

Many young Japanese seem to have it all, which allows them to focus on improving their possibilities and satisfaction. One of these lucky people is Manami (26 years old, real name TAKAHASHI Manami), from Adachi-ku, Tokyo. However, she has almost come to realize the first step of her dream.

Manami was used to hearing rock music from the time she was a little girl due to the influence of her mother. Manami was 16 when she first began earnestly creating her own music and she had a vague dream of becoming a vocalist someday. One day she thought, "If I could understand these lyrics without a Japanese translation, my view of the world would be broadened." This thought set her on the road to achieving her dream.

Manami thought that if she were to become a singer, she had to do it in a way that is accepted by people around the world, and to achieve that, she had to be able to sing in English, the world's international language. However, at that time, her level of English was poor and she says with a bitter smile, "I hated English although I loved rock music so much. I think it's funny myself."

Manami entered an English school to study the language intensely. It was natural that she started from the lowest level. Then, as a result of her efforts, her English reached the level where she could understand daily conversations. At the same time she continued her musical activities. When she posted her own live music "NAKED" on myspace.com, she received many unexpected responses as well as recording offers from several British recording companies.

Her album was scheduled to be released by a British label, however, the arrangement fell through. After overcoming many difficulties, Manami's album "45-Lucky Girl" was finally released in September by Mix Ltd. Japan, which publishes a magazine "Debut Now." Mix Ltd. is promoting MANAMI to their best of ability.

"Recently, my American and British fans launched a fan club called 'MANAMI street team,'" she says. "When I heard this news from my fans, I was really moved and tears flowed down my cheeks." She is encouraged by exchanges she has with overseas fans on myspace.com and by receiving mail and comments from Japanese living overseas.

Manami is now seriously considering participating in the famous British Glastonbury Festival. Her parents, grandmother and all her relatives are supporting her. As to the question about her sales points, she says, "My spirit makes me do my best in everything. You will feel it when you see my shows," she answers with smile. Her dream to be a vocalist who sings in English is now starting to come true.

MANAMI's website
http://www.myspace.com/manamimanamimanami

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