Japanese Rock Star Hyde Will Eat ‘Anything But Durian’ When He Visits KL In May

Japanese Rock Star Hyde Will Eat ‘Anything But Durian’ When He Visits KL In May - Hyde is finally coming to Malaysia and for fans, it’s been a long wait. The Japanese rock star is holding a concert in Kuala Lumpur, the only stop in South-East Asia for his solo concert series tour, The Hyde Acoustic Concert Tour 2018 Kuro Misa Asia.

Organised by Toybox Projects, the concert will be held on May 12 at MCA Hall.

As lead vocalist of legendary Japanese rock band L’Arc-en-Ciel, as well as Vamps, the 49-year-old juggles two groups, a solo career, composing, producing and even had time to act in a few movies as well – Moon Child (2003) and Kagen No Tsuki (2004) – and voicing his own character in the anime Bakumen (2011).

Known as one of the most influential vocalists in Japan, he has released four solo albums – Roentgen (2002), 666 (2003), Faith (2006) and Hyde (2009).

His songs have also been used in a number of movies – The Cape Of Storms was the theme song for Kagen No Tsuki; his single Horizon was featured in Sky High; and Shining Over You was used in the video game, Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings And The Lost Ocean.

One his most well-known compositions is Glamorous Sky which was featured in the movie Nana, based on a manga by Ai Yazawa.

Although released in 2005, the song – sung by Mika Nakashima, with lyrics written by Yazawa – continues to be an extremely popular song until today. He included an English version of the song in his self-titled album.

We managed to catch hold of him for an exclusive e-mail interview on what to expect for his KL concert.

Hyde said as this will be his first visit to Malaysia, he would like to go to a beachside resort. But when it comes to food, the singer is not as adventurous as he humorously said, “anything but durian.” So fans thinking of sending him durian, please don’t.

On what fans can expect from the show, Hyde said: “I’ll be playing lots of different songs, mostly from my solo album Roentgen and I think you can enjoy the songs comfortably from your seats.”

He’s also currently in the process of working on his latest solo album, but unfortunately, it doesn’t look like we’ll be getting a preview.

“The songs I’m making now differ from Kuro Misa (tour) as it’s hard rock. I’d be happy if these could also be played live in Malaysia someday.” Let’s hope he’ll come back for another concert!

He’s rather noncommittal in terms of inspiration, saying that there isn’t a particular person who inspires him. Instead, he said when he sees Japanese people pursuing activities abroad, he’s inspired to do the same.

As someone’s who’s been active in the industry for 30 years, it’s no mean feat maintaining his popularity. So how does he do it?

“I think ‘sense’ is important. It’s not limited to what sells, but about whether you’ve developed an understanding of the connection to a larger sense of things,” came his reply.

He doesn’t have an answer for the secret of his longevity saying modestly that he thinks he’s just lucky. Now if we could all be that lucky …

On whether he sees himself performing on stage in his 60s: “I will, but from heaven,” We certainly hope not!

As to the kind of projects that attracts him or something he would like to do in the future, Hyde wants to dabble in folk craft, such as wood carvings and making plates.

Since it’s Hyde, we had to ask him about fashion. Known for his eclectic style and theatrical costumes on stage, he’s not afraid to push boundaries either. He’s even broken the internet in Japan dressed as Harley Quinn (from the movie Suicide Squad) at the Vamps annual Halloween event in Tokyo in 2016.

So what’s his personal style like? “Usually I’m on my bicycle with a beard, sporting a Mohawk, wearing a leopard print bikini with knee high socks and high heels.” This being Hyde, we wouldn’t be surprised if he actually meant it.

Finally, does he have a message for his Malaysian fans?

“I’m happy to be able to go to Malaysia for the first time. I’m really blessed to have fans there.

“Please look forward to the concert as I’ll do one that won’t let you down.”