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With a distinctive voice, raw emotion, and a unique artistic world that leaves a lasting impression, UPIKO has carved out a special place for herself in the Japanese music scene. Initially gaining recognition on YouTube and TikTok through her covers, the singer-songwriter quickly revealed far more than just a recognizable voice: she demonstrated a deeply personal approach to setting emotions to music, blending acoustic melodies and introspective lyrics with a visceral performance style.
From her early compositions to Compass—her debut album—UPIKO has consistently explored this intimate musical territory. With Upheaval, her latest project, she takes this exploration of human emotion even further, making greater room for nuance, doubt, and the complexities that lie beneath the surface.
Invited to Japan Expo 2026, UPIKO came to meet her French audience through a series of performances. We took the opportunity to discuss her beginnings on social media, her process of transforming emotions into music, the evolution of her artistic style, and the inspirations that shaped Upheaval.
Hello, could you introduce yourself?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
Thanks to UPIKO and the Japan Expo team for the time they dedicated to this!
Interview in collaboration with Nautiljon and KAvenyou.
