Shizuka Kudo

This is from a 39-year-old who has seen approximately 185 live stages in their 30s. Rather than being a "fan" of someone, I buy tickets and go to concerts with the feeling of "This person's song is so good!" or "I want to see this person live at least once in my life!" This was a long-awaited Shizuka-chan (Shizuka Kudo)'s live concert. Allow me to ramble a bit. The first time I became interested in popular music that was popular in the world was probably around the third grade, when I heard Yuming's (Yumi Matsutoya) 'Manatsu no Yoru no Yume' (A Midsummer Night's Dream). I vividly remember being drawn to that intro even as a child. But when I trace my memories back further, I remember seeing a mischievous girl at kindergarten, surrounded by small tables for four where we were eating lunch, doing the signature hand gestures from Shizuka Kudo's 'Arashi no Sugao' (Stormy Expression), which had been on TV the night before. I didn't have a feeling of "liking" the song at that time, but 'Arashi no Sugao' is the oldest popular music in my memory. Perhaps influenced by that, I still end up listening to Shizuka-chan's songs. Another reason I'm drawn to her music is the luxurious production team. I also love that Miyuki Nakajima, whom I adore, and the bass genius Tsugutoshi Gotoh are involved. Gotoh-san's intensely inserted bass phrases are addictive. But what I've been thinking about lately is her charm as a vocalist! After watching her collaboration with Masanori Sera on YouTube for 'Arashi no Sugao,' I only recognize her as a rock vocalist. Recently, there may be many young people who recognize the song's quirks due to the influence of Miracle Hikaru (a popular impersonator), but for me, that kind of strong quirkiness is perfect for rock! My heart explodes at the intro of my favorite song, 'Metamorphose!' 'Blue Velvet' is where she truly demonstrates her abilities as a rock vocalist. It was truly amazing. I've seen over 180 different stages, and I have the impression that artists like Takuro Yoshida and Tatsuro Yamashita are "musician's stages" or "professionals who entertain with music." Takuro Yoshida would even start singing a song in the middle of his MC, saying, "There was a song like this, wasn't there? (guitar strum~♪)" What was impressive about Shizuka-chan's stage this time was the ad-libbing that felt like the same soul. Apart from the band member introductions, she called out to the players of each instrument and had them play and sing a verse (probably a song not on the program) just with that instrument and her vocals. I was completely blown away by that... It was a stage where I felt the difference in experience, professionalism, and that she really loves to sing. There are many other songs I like, so I definitely want to participate again!