Leo Ieiri: Living honestly. There is true value in living by revealing your true self.

2022.10.01

Artists　Leo Ieiri　(Ieiri Leo)
They made their major debut in February 10. Since then, they have been in charge of numerous drama theme songs and commercial songs. This year marks the 10th anniversary of their debut, and they are busy releasing a best album, a 10th anniversary live concert, and a digital single. They are scheduled to start their nationwide tour "8th Live Tour ~THE BEST~" in October.

What made you become a singer?

I've loved singing since I was little, and vaguely wanted to become a singer. When I was 13, I heard Yutaka Ozaki's "15 no Yoru" and realized that I could write songs in addition to singing, so I decided to become a singer-songwriter. It's not easy to make a living from performing arts, but my mother told me at a young age that "anything you can imagine can come true." I don't think I became a singer because I'm good at singing, but because I love singing. I believe that dreams come true when you yourself start taking action to make your dreams a reality.

What is important in life?

Living honestly. When I was a student, I would change what I said and did depending on the friends I was talking to, without any ill intentions. I think I was afraid of people finding out who I really was. Now I believe there is no more enjoyable way to live than to live as yourself. I also believe it's important to think things through. You don't get the answer right away, and the more you pause to think, the more you develop your own unique style. When I was wondering if I was cut out to be a singer, I had the opportunity to do work experience at a nursery school. There, when I spread out a blue picnic blanket, one child said, "The ocean stretches out before me." This experience made me want to express the feelings I have in my daily life through song.

◆Please give us a message for university students

I want you to do everything you want to do. Even if it turns out to be wrong, it's okay to feel like it wasn't for you. I also want you to not give up on what you want to do just because you're doing it for someone else. Even if it's your parents, you're the one who has to live your own life. I think it's important to listen to advice, but ultimately make your own decisions.

■After the interview　
I feel like I was able to get a glimpse of the work "Ieiri Leo" through this interview. Every word is filled with emotion, and I feel extremely unsure if I was able to fully convey that to all of you readers, and I am filled with regret.

Student newspaper October 2022 issue Chuo Gakuin University 10th year student Hayato Tane