“I started singing and talking at the same time,” reflects the now stylish 21-year-old. Although her father encouraged a career as a TV announcer in Japan, Mami had other plans.
“I knew I wanted to pursue music. Not in Japan, but in America. In America, you can be expressive while you sing or play your instrument. It’s free.”
Mami yearned for musical freedom and expression in her performances. Her dreams became a reality after enrolling at the California College of Music in the fall of 2008.
“I also wanted to meet Aaron Carter,” she giggles. “He was my first love.”
According to Samovar and Porter (1995), in Japan, there is an invisible pressure to refrain from revealing emotion--starting in the classroom. Students in Japan participate by the “silent receipt of information”. Speaking frequently is perceived as a sign of conceit and superficiality. Although desired in the US, to be considered an individual is not a socially accepted status in collectivist Japan. A nail that sticks out will be pounded down.
Overall, Mami is shy in composure and walks as if her goal is to be invisible amongst a crowd. But on stage, Mami shines with confidence.
Mami describes her sound as a pop vibe with a soulful edge. She is currently working with Phillip Ingram, brother to James Ingram, and Rex Salas, music director for Janet Jackson, on an arrangement that showcases her own lyrics. Of course it’s about falling in love.
Her next performance will be at The Terrace in Old Town Pasadena on September 29th at 9:30 P.M.
> See past performances: '09 Summer Concert, '09 Spring Concert.
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Music Production
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