After building a loyal international following through YouTube and TikTok, Japanese singer-songwriter Upiko has taken her music far beyond social media. With her heartfelt acoustic performances and deeply personal songwriting, she has gradually established herself as an artist capable of connecting with audiences across language barriers.
During her first visit to France as a Japan Expo 2026 guest, we had the opportunity to speak with Upiko about her musical journey, the emotions that inspire her songs, and the life experiences behind her latest album, Upheaval. From the moment she realized fans overseas were singing along to her music to the empowering message behind My Savior, she reflects on the personal growth that has shaped both her career and her artistry.
Hello, could you introduce yourself?
Upiko: Hello, my name is Upiko. I’m from Japan, and I create music that conveys a wide range of emotions together with my acoustic guitar.
You first started sharing your music on YouTube and TikTok. Looking back on that time, what is the first memory that comes to mind?
Upiko: At first, I never imagined becoming a professional singer. Six years ago, I started posting videos of myself through a format thought for TikTok and YouTube. Six years later, I’ve reached a point in my career where I’m able to perform live in Japan and even tour Europe. I’m truly grateful to everyone who has supported me, because they’re the reason why I am here today.
When did you realize that your career was taking a new direction?
Upiko: I realized it when I saw that my audience had grown beyond Japan. Two years ago, I performed at a festival in Germany, where my song Crow had become quite popular. I was surprised to see that people who couldn’t speak Japanese were singing along to the lyrics. That was the moment I started feeling more confident even outside Japan.
Your songs convey a wide range of emotions, sometimes very intense ones. How does a song usually begin for you?
Upiko: I love traveling because it gives me a sense of freedom and allows me to truly be myself. Most of my lyrics come from those moments. I write my thoughts in a journal, and those written feelings become the foundation of my songs.
Your new album is called Upheaval, a word that suggests profound change. Why did you feel this title best represented the album?
Upiko: When I look back on everything I’ve been through and reflect on my life, I realize it has been full of major upheavals. Upheaval represents both rain and sunshine, and I think that is the best way to express everything I’ve experienced. For me, it’s a very powerful message.
If you had to choose one song from Upheaval that best represents your current state of mind, which one would it be and why?
Upiko: I would choose “My Savior” because the only person who can truly save us is ourselves. We have to take control of our own lives, keep moving forward, and save ourselves. In a way, My Savior represents the image of myself who is currently saving me.
Do you have one final message for your French audience?
Upiko: This is my first time in France. I’d like to share the message that, despite our differences, we can all come together through music. Thank you so much for your support.
We would like to thank Upiko and Japan Expo for this opportunity.
This interview is a collaboration between KAvenyou, CKJPOPNEWS and NAUTILJON
