Singer-songwriter Mari Iijima, who staged a 40th-anniversary debut concert last year, makes a return appearance at Billboard Live Yokohama. In 1983, she debuted as a new artist produced by Ryuichi Sakamoto with her first all-original lyric-and-music album Rosé, and tracks such as “Love Sick” have been drawing attention in the current City Pop boom. She moved to Los Angeles in 1989 and founded her own label, marimusic, in 1999. This year marks the 25th anniversary of that independent-label founding. Her activities span both domestic and international scenes, and in 2022 her City Pop concert at The Novo in Los Angeles sold out. Last year, the 40th-anniversary album All Time Best, crossing labels, charted and has been re-evaluated.

Ahead of this November’s show, a new album featuring all-new songs is planned for release, and Mari Iijima, who continues to strive for greater heights, invites you to a precious homecoming concert you won’t want to miss.

＜Mari Iijima Comment＞

I’m delighted to be able to perform at Billboard Live Yokohama again this year. Last year was my first time performing there, and the staff were superb, making for a wonderfully comfortable experience. This year I’ve been told I can prepare a 90-minute set, so I’m carefully shaping it as I rehearse at home. Today is the 41st anniversary of the release of my debut album, Rosé. When you only look at the numbers, it might be dizzying, but my heart hasn’t changed much since those high-school days when I wrote songs while playing piano and aimed for my debut. Surely I’m more serious about my craft now, continually experimenting in music production and always striving to reach higher. Live performances are truly thrilling, but I hope that, in the lingering afterglow, I can deliver something I’m satisfied with and, above all, a Great Vibe concert that leaves the audience feeling happy as they go home. The set lists will be varied. The day and night sets will differ slightly, and there will be a signing session after the show. I’ll be flying over from LA with my beloved dog, so please come and see me too! See you soon.
September 21, 2024
Mari Iijima