Kikuo Announces First Solo North American Tour
The influential Japanese Vocaloid producer to perform in the U.S. and Mexico, highlighting the growing appeal of Vocaloid music.
News by Reyep - March 9, 2024 08h58 UTC - Source: kikuo.jp
Tokyo-based electronic artist Kikuo, known for his innovative work with Vocaloid technology, has revealed plans for his first solo tour of North America in March 2024. Titled "kikuoland," the tour will take Kikuo to several key cities, including Mexico City, Dallas, and Los Angeles, along with appearances at the South by Southwest (SXSW) music conference in Austin, Texas. This series of performances represents a notable moment for Kikuo, who has played a significant role in the evolution of Vocaloid music both in Japan and internationally.
Since adopting Vocaloid technology in 2010, Kikuo has distinguished himself within the digital music landscape. His approach combines genre-blending soundscapes with complex melodies and contrasting lyrical themes. His efforts have expanded the expressive capabilities of Vocaloid, showcasing its potential as a versatile instrument in modern music composition.
Kikuo's influence is considerable, shaping the musical tastes and production techniques of a new generation of artists in Japan and contributing to the global Vocaloid community. His track "Aishite Aishite Aishite" notably achieved over 100 million streams on Spotify, marking a significant milestone for Vocaloid music on a global scale. The upcoming North American tour follows his collaboration with British artist bo en in the United States earlier in 2024, but this time, Kikuo steps into the spotlight with solo shows.
The tour underscores Kikuo's position as a key figure in Vocaloid music and provides a platform for him to showcase his artistic vision directly to North American audiences. With scheduled performances in significant venues and at SXSW—a major hub for discovering new music and technology trends—Kikuo's presence highlights the growing interest and appreciation for Vocaloid music outside Japan.
"Kikuoland" presents an opportunity for fans and newcomers alike to experience the unique qualities of Vocaloid music live, as Kikuo brings his creative compositions and innovative sound design to the stage. The tour is a testament to the international reach of Vocaloid music and Kikuo's role in pushing its boundaries, offering a glimpse into the future possibilities of this digital art form.