Sonoko Inoue: "Words are the best tool for self-expression. That's why I want to express my words with love."

■ Profile

Singer-songwriter. 23 years old, originally from Kobe. He started writing lyrics, composing music, and performing on the streets in the sixth grade of elementary school. His music videos have been viewed over 100 million times. He is a next-generation singer-songwriter who is active not only as a singer, but also in films, TV dramas, commercials, YouTube, and more.

■How did you spend your time as a student?

　In elementary and junior high school, I was the kind of student who would spend my time chatting with a large group of people and actively participate in school events. Since it was an all-girls school, I unconsciously participated in group activities. There were times when I was envious of mature people who acted alone.
　Ever since I was little, I've loved singing and performing in front of people. I joined my current agency when I was in the fifth grade of elementary school, and I just kept running towards my dream of becoming a singer. I came to Tokyo when I was in high school, and the reason I decided to move there was because I felt like it would bring me a little closer to my dream.

■Please tell us about the song and the words.

　Singing is the most joyful thing I can have. Of course, I faced some difficulties in turning my hobby into a job, but more than that, I feel that singing has the power to make you think about life itself. I want to make people think about something through my songs, and I'd be happy if it inspires them, so I try to continue to be inspired by those around me and not settle for the status quo. I also believe that words are the best tool for self-expression for me. I want to properly communicate my thoughts to others in words, and I'm very happy when they are understood. That's why I love words so much, and I want to take responsibility for the words I speak until the very end.

■Please give us a message for university students

　I think university students have many worries and conflicts, and as someone close to your age, I too have my own worries. However, even when times are tough, I hope you will believe that doing what you love is the most fun, and pursue it to the point where you can boast that you have more knowledge about it than anyone else.

■After the interview

　The lyrics of Inoue's songs are powerful, and I had wondered why they resonate so deeply with me, but as I listened to him, I realized it was because he loves words. As society becomes more digitalized, it seems like people are becoming less attached to words. That's why I wanted to learn how to approach words through his music.

Student newspaper April 2021 issue Rien Kanda, 2nd year student at Japan Women's University