As singer-songwriter AI steps into her 26th year in the music industry, she’s embracing a deliberate return to her artistic roots, marked by the release of her new single, “Lucky I Love You,” and a fresh visual direction. This milestone follows a significant 25th-anniversary year, which was celebrated with a comprehensive nationwide tour and the release of a career-spanning best-of album. The introspective and resolute spirit characterizing this new phase is vividly captured in recent promotional imagery, artfully shot on the streets by her younger sister, photographer and designer 217・NINA. AI sat down with Billboard Japan to discuss her current artistic philosophy, the evolution of her career, and her outlook on the future.
AI Reflects on a Milestone Anniversary and the Demands of Touring
Looking back on her 25th-anniversary year, AI expressed a sentiment that eschews traditional celebratory milestones. "I don’t really think much about anniversaries, honestly," she stated. Her focus, she explained, remained steadfastly on experiencing each day to its fullest. This approach was particularly relevant during her extensive national tour, which demanded a unique duality of presence.
Onstage, AI described a transformation, a necessary elevation of energy to meet the demands of live performance. "On tour, I have to peak at the moment I’m onstage, so every day was about getting myself ready for that," she explained. This intense schedule, however, was balanced with her role as a mother. The constant juggling act required careful planning and support from her team, who were mindful of avoiding overly crowded environments during her tour commitments. This thoughtful consideration allowed her to maintain the focus necessary for both her artistic and personal responsibilities.
Motherhood’s Impact on AI’s Artistic and Personal Growth
The profound experience of motherhood has significantly reshaped AI’s perspective and her approach to her career. "A lot, and I think it’s made me stronger," she affirmed when asked about the impact of becoming a mother. While acknowledging that she still experiences moments of emotional vulnerability, she noted a distinct shift away from self-pity. "There’s a strength in being able to let go of yourself. My kids give me real power," she shared. This newfound strength has evidently translated into her artistic endeavors, infusing her work with a deeper resonance.
Evolving Work Ethic and the Power of Authentic Communication
AI’s understanding of her profession has evolved considerably since she first embarked on her musical journey. Initially driven by the pure joy of singing, she now recognizes the deeper responsibility inherent in her craft. "This job is about communicating something, which means I have to live in a way that’s consistent with the words I put out there," she explained. This realization has led her to cultivate a life lived with intention, aiming to "earn the right to mean what I say."
However, AI also emphasized the importance of self-compassion in maintaining her creative output. She acknowledged the potential for mental strain when applying excessive self-criticism, underscoring the necessity of knowing when to "ease up." The concept of a "slacking-off phase" is an integral part of her process, allowing for rejuvenation and preventing burnout.
The Unparalleled Connection of Live Performance
For AI, live performances transcend mere musical execution; they represent a unique and irreplaceable form of human connection. "There are people I only get to see at live shows, and there’s a raw feeling you can only get there," she explained. These moments offer an unparalleled opportunity to convey the intrinsic meaning behind her songs, a nuance that can only be fully appreciated in person. The audience’s active participation, even to the extent of prompting forgotten lyrics, deeply moves her. "Those moments move me just as much as anything else," she admitted with a laugh.
Crafting Messages of Hope and Love
A consistent thread in AI’s music is the intentional infusion of positivity, particularly aiming for uplifting conclusions to her songs. "I do want the ending to be a happy one. I want people’s lives to be happy," she stated. Yet, she acknowledged the inherent difficulty in articulating these sentiments universally. Recognizing the fluctuating emotional states of individuals, she strives to empathize and guide her listeners toward a positive resolution. "It’s not easy to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, but I always want the message to lead somewhere good by the end," she explained.
"Lucky I Love You": A Fundamental Expression of Love
Her latest single, "Lucky I Love You," released in February and serving as the theme song for KitKat, encapsulates this philosophy. The song delves into a fundamental human experience: the profound nature of love. "For me, it comes down to the most fundamental thing I can say: ‘Is there any love greater than this?’" AI revealed. To ensure the message resonated without feeling overly burdensome, she intentionally adopted a more relaxed and vulnerable tone at the outset, aiming for a natural and accessible entry point for listeners.
Sisterly Collaboration and the Creative Process
The visual narrative accompanying "Lucky I Love You" was a family affair, with AI collaborating with her younger sister, 217・NINA. This familial connection facilitated a seamless creative exchange. "We know what each other wants to do because we’re sisters," AI noted. Despite their shared understanding, the demanding schedule, as both mothers, necessitated an efficient and rapid production. "We got up at four in the morning, got everything sorted in a rush, and wrapped the whole shoot that same day," she recalled with amusement.
A Memorable Encounter with Alicia Keys and Iconic Influences
AI’s career has been punctuated by memorable collaborations, including a performance alongside Alicia Keys at SUMMER SONIC. The experience left a lasting impression on AI, who was struck by Keys’s genuine warmth and respect. "Alicia is just a beautiful human being. Her respect for Japan, her love for people, all of it is right there," AI observed. The encounter was so profound that AI found herself almost speechless, simply expressing her admiration. The spontaneity of Keys’s pre-performance musical offering further underscored her artistic spirit.
Reflecting on unforgettable live performances, AI cited Chaka Khan as a pivotal influence, particularly her vocal prowess at its zenith. The sheer emotive power of Khan’s voice, capable of eliciting tears with a single note, left an indelible mark. Similarly, Mariah Carey’s performance, despite vocal challenges, showcased the resilience and professionalism of a true artist. Carey’s ability to deliver a brilliant performance under adverse conditions served as a powerful lesson in dedication.
The Enduring Message of "Lean On Me"
The closing track of AI’s previous album, RESPECT ALL, featured a poignant cover of Bill Withers’s "Lean On Me." This song, also performed at the G7 Hiroshima Summit in May 2023, resonated deeply with AI. The selection of "Lean On Me" for the album’s conclusion was a deliberate choice, informed by both childhood memories of the film and its powerful message of mutual support.
When asked to perform at the G7 Summit, AI considered various anthems, ultimately choosing "Lean On Me" for its universal appeal and its message of shared humanity. "Everyone has pain and sadness, and when you’re weak, I’ll be there for you," she explained, highlighting the song’s profound yet accessible nature. Its capacity to offer solace on difficult days underscores its enduring significance.
Charting a Course for the Future: Authenticity Over Trends
As AI ventures into her 26th year, her vision for the future is rooted in authenticity and artistic integrity. Having explored diverse creative avenues, she now prioritizes releasing music that she personally finds compelling, rather than chasing fleeting trends. "Something that sounds good will always sound good, no matter when you hear it," she asserted, signaling a commitment to timeless artistry. This philosophy represents a desire to "reset and start fresh from the ground up."
While a concrete picture of her long-term future remains undefined, AI is driven by a continued sense of purpose. She acknowledged moments of doubt, particularly around the ten-year mark of her career, but the drive to continue stems from an enduring belief in her artistic potential. The possibility of stepping away from music exists, contingent on the challenge becoming insurmountable or her passion waning.
Contemplating Life Beyond Music and the Legacy of Longevity
AI contemplates life beyond her current career, recognizing the need to explore other avenues. Having dedicated her professional life to music since her twenties, she understands the potential for a significant shift should her current path conclude. The longevity of artists like Chaka Khan and Diana Ross, still performing vibrantly into their eighties, serves as an inspiration. AI aspires to continue creating music that evokes wonder and to reach a point where her voice and performances represent the pinnacle of her artistic expression. This pursuit of continuous growth fuels her dedication to her craft, with the hope of a long and impactful career.
