Photo Of Yohei Chris
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of Tokyo, Yohei Chris is steadily carving out his own space in the world of alternative R&B. Known for his genre-blending sound that draws from soul, hip-hop, and contemporary urban influences, Yohei Chris creates music that resonates deeply with listeners navigating the complexities of modern life.
With emotionally driven lyrics that explore themes of loneliness, self-reflection, and the quiet struggles of youth, his work offers a raw and honest perspective rarely found in mainstream releases.
Tracks from his album “Umaku Ikirenai Bokura” showcase his ability to turn personal experiences into universally relatable stories, wrapped in smooth, atmospheric production.
As an independent artist, Yohei Chris represents a new wave of Japanese musicians who are redefining the boundaries of R&B while staying true to their authentic voice. In this interview, we take a closer look at his musical journey, creative process, and the inspirations behind his deeply introspective sound.
How did your journey as a singer-songwriter begin?
When I was around 20, I had only performed live once or twice and had only casually written a couple of songs. I started going to various live shows and clubs just to build connections in music. At one of those events, I happened to meet someone who was working as a rookie manager at a music agency.
We later got in touch, and when I sent them demos of my original songs, both that person and the agency’s president were moved. Eventually, I signed with them.
I’m currently independent and not affiliated with any agency, but joining that agency at the time is what marked the beginning of my life as a singer-songwriter.
What inspired you to seriously pursue music?
Joining that agency, as I mentioned earlier, was the turning point. Originally, I hadn’t really planned to pursue music seriously, but my environment changed, and I had more opportunities to perform in front of people. Gradually, I began to feel that this was the path I would take.
However, I parted ways with the agency after about two years. After leaving, I had more time to truly face music, and I think quitting the agency was what pushed me to seriously pursue it.
If you could describe your music in three words, what would they be?
Sensitive, cloudy, hopeful.
Which artist has influenced you the most?
Not everything is directly reflected in my music, but Frank Ocean has had a strong influence on me.
How do you blend genres like R&B, hip-hop, and alternative?
Rather than consciously thinking about genres when creating, I focus on melodies and words that match the music.
I think that naturally results in a blend of styles. I don’t necessarily consider my music hip-hop, but since I prefer expressing real experiences and raw emotions rather than abstract ideas—while still conveying hope—I think it shares some elements with hip-hop in that sense.
Your new single will be released on the 27th. Can you tell us about the story and inspiration behind the song?
I will be releasing “Saigonokotoba (The Last Words)” as a final message to my father, who passed away about two years ago. The song is based on the real emotions I felt when my mother suddenly informed me of his passing, and when I saw him in the hospital room. It also carries my final message to him, who I now believe is watching over me from the sky.
My father wasn’t very expressive, and I’ve only ever been able to convey my feelings through music. I believe he will listen to this song from above as well. We’re also planning to release a music video soon, so I hope you’ll listen to the song and watch the video too.
How does this new single differ from your previous releases like “Made in Chigasaki” and “Tokyo Nite Rider”?
Compared to my previous releases, including “Abiru,” this song carries a much more raw and deeply personal message. While I always value the musical aspect in all my work, this track is less about reaching a wide audience and more about expressing my personal feelings and words to my father through music.
What emotions or message would you like listeners to take away when they hear this new song for the first time?
Although this song is a personal message to my father, I believe every listener has their own family stories and relationships. I hope this song can help them reflect on and remember the important people in their lives.
Was there a particularly memorable moment during the songwriting or recording process for this single?
Although the song is being released now, it was actually recorded quite some time ago, when my father’s passing was still very recent. At that time, the memories were much more vivid, and I could clearly picture those moments in my mind.
I was still very emotional back then, so whenever I thought deeply about it, it would overwhelm me. I especially remember feeling tears well up when I was writing the lyrics and when I listened back to the demo I had recorded after finishing the song.
Are there any new songs or projects you’re currently working on?
I’m planning to release a new song on March 27, followed by a music video.
It’s called “Saigonokotoba (Last Words),” and it’s my final message to my father, who passed away about two years ago.
Please listen to it and watch the music video.
When creating songs, which usually comes first: lyrics or melody?
Recently, melodies tend to come first. However, when there’s something I really want to express or leave behind, the lyrics usually come first.
What themes do you often explore in your music?
Around the world, including Japan, I think there are many people whose hearts feel constantly clouded—not those who rarely worry or those who completely break down emotionally.
I often write songs that resonate with people who feel lost in that “cloudiness,” offering companionship and a sense of hope.
Is there a song that holds particularly personal meaning for you? Why?
“Umakuikirenaibokura (We Who Can’t Live Well)” is very personal. I’ve always been sensitive and often felt beaten down, and I’ve known people around me who have experienced thoughts of wanting to die. I could share their feelings, yet I wondered why I had never felt that way myself. I wrote this song during that time.
It came from a conversation with a friend, and although it’s rough, it reminds me of my beginnings and important emotions, so it’s very dear to me.
What message do you hope listeners take from your music?
People who think deeply or feel stuck in a cloudy place often lose sight of their surroundings and feel alone when overwhelmed by negative emotions.
Through my music, I don’t want listeners to feel alone. If possible, I want them to feel even a small sense of hope.
Can you share a story behind your recent release?
I recently released a song called “Abiru (To Bathe).” I wrote it a while ago during my first trip abroad from Japan in quite some time.
I visited the UK and the Netherlands.
In particular, the Netherlands felt like a place my heart had been seeking, though I can’t explain why. While walking along a green path in northern Amsterdam one morning, the sunlight I saw left a vivid impression on me, and that experience led to the completion of the song.
What do you value most in collaborations?
Respecting each other’s vision.
It’s simple, but I believe that when both parties can create without stress, the most natural and authentic work comes out.
Is there any artist you’d like to collaborate with in the future?
There isn’t a specific artist in mind. I’d be happy to collaborate with someone I naturally meet and resonate with musically.
I often find that my voice blends well with female singers, so I’d especially enjoy working with one.
How would you like your music to evolve moving forward?
Recently, I’ve been creating songs by layering melodies and lyrics over beats, but I’d also like to release more acoustic works featuring just instruments and vocals, which I used to do.
I want to expand my presence worldwide through that.
Do you have a message for your fans around the world?
To everyone around the world who tends to think deeply:
I’ll continue making music so that your delicate hearts can feel hope. Please look forward to it.
Have a great day today.
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