HANCE: Music Between Roots, Emotions, and Memories

Blending international influences with a deeply rooted Japanese sensibility, HANCE has built a unique and heartfelt musical identity. From the countryside of Shimane to stages around the world, his journey reflects both his roots and the many connections he has formed along the way.

Through what he describes as a “cinematographic” approach to music, HANCE creates emotional and nostalgic soundscapes that resonate with listeners. A regular performer at conventions and across Europe, he shares a special bond with his audience, mixing original songs with anime covers that bring back powerful memories.

For Asia Artist Info, he looks back on his journey, his vision of “Wa”, and the experiences that continue to shape his music today.

Could you please introduce yourself in a few words?

I’m HANCE, I’m a Japanese songwriter, composer and singer living in Tokyo.

You define your musical style as a mix of different genres (rock, jazz, R&B) with a slight touch of “Wa”, the “Japanese” style. What does that word, “Wa”, mean to you? 

My music considers several influences coming from all around the world. However, as a Japanese person, and since I grew up in Japan, I feel that the essence of Japan itself will always be visible through my songs – whatever happens, and even if I’m being inspired by music from other countries. 

As a consequence, it’s not really about me knowingly integrating “Wa” into my music. I’d rather say this concept ends up expressing itself in my songs naturally. 

To what extent this “Japanese style” is essential to your music? Which message would you like to pass on by using it? 

You could say that it is part of my identity or personality. Also, people should know that even if I now live in Tokyo, I’ve lived in the countryside of Shimane until I was eighteen years old and graduated from high school. In other words, we’re talking about Japan, but what really defines my music as HANCE would be that melting pot of influences from what establishes the countryside and city life by nature. 

To me, “Wa” is like a state of mind allowing me to express music with sincerity. I see it as an essential element – and extremely pure.

Given your numerous musical influences, what would be the common thread of your musical universe? What inspires you the most? 

Quite usually, people who listen to my music feel quite nostalgic about it. I think that is because I compose my songs while remaining faithful to my roots. You may say this is the common trait between all my compositions. 

I would also say I’d qualify my own music as “cinematographic”. When I’m composing music, it’s almost as if I was picturing a scene out of a movie, in which you could feel the dramatic side of it – or many other feelings. This is what I keep in mind while creating my songs. 

Which one of your songs would you recommend to someone willing to discover your music? 

Choosing one song would be quite difficult for me, so I’ll be choosing two of them! (laughs) First, I would say “Yoru to Uso”, my very first single. It’s inspired by Japanese traditional music, while referring to City Pop, jazz and Latin music among others. That track would be unmissable – I always sing it during my live shows. 

The second song I’d choose would be “Genka”. For that song, I used a traditional Japanese melody. I paired if with a contemporary pop style, but it’s also a testimony of my Japanese roots. 

These two songs are radically different from the other, but if you want to discover my music as HANCE, I would recommend to listen to them. 

You perform in conventions dedicated to Japanese culture and in many countries during your tours. Is there any particular memory you’d like to share about one of these concerts? 

It is really difficult for me to choose one event only – but my Ukrainian tour would probably remain the most striking experience. It began in 2024 and ended during the summer of 2025. I sang in forty cities in total, being in almost every main city in the country. 

Despite the country being at war, I felt a real harmony with the audience in every venue I’ve been able to attend. With moments like these, I was able to remember the main reasons why I want to keep making music.

I think what really struck me was being able to talk with a soldier coming home from the war front the day of one of my shows. It was memorable for me to meet someone like him thanks to my music. 

How did you end up performing in front of a Swiss audience? 

Besides Japan, Switzerland is the very first country I ever performed. Because of that, it is a country I am deeply attached to. 

Moreover, the music videos of songs such as “Rasen”, “Monochrome Sky” and “Juujisei” were shot in Switzerland!

Being able to shoot videos all around these beautiful cities is a cherished memory. 

Do you think there’s a growing interest for Japanese music in Europe?

That’s what I feel indeed! It’s not just about music – there’s really a lot of people interested in Japanese culture as a whole. As I also have a role as a touristic ambassador in Izumo, my hometown located in Shimane, I hope I can introduce Japanese culture to people through my music. 

During your live performances, you often sing covers of animated series such as Neon Genesis Evangelion. How do you choose the track you want to cover? 

I’m aware that people attending conventions are attracted by animated series. Here’s why I’m singing original songs during my shows as well as songs from animated series.

When I’m singing a cover, I always make sure to choose a different arrangement than the one from the original version of the song. I try to select songs that allow me to express my personality as HANCE, while keeping the assets of the original song in itself.

What does a soundtrack for an animated series represent for you? Do you think the music is as important as the story itself?

I’ve always watched animated series, ever since I was a kid – like many people, I suppose. For that reason, I think animated series’ credits are full of memories and past experiences. My main goal was always to provide a meaningful experience for the audience, even more than it would be for me. What I really care for while singing is making sure not to waste the good memories these songs carry with the audience. 

Is there an animated series you’ve particularly enjoyed and would recommend? 

The first anime that comes to my mind is probably Dragon Ball. As a kid, I was watching it and would be starry-eyed. When looking back at it as an adult, you can discover it from another angle, which makes it really interesting. Personally, I rather enjoy Dragon Ball’s story before Goku grows up, when the manga was particularly focused on comedy (laughs)!

Before wrapping up this interview, do you have any message for your European and French fans? 

These past two years, I have had the chance to visit many European countries. I have always loved European culture since I was young - and ever since I began my career as HANCE, I had this dream of traveling to Europe. It was a pure moment of joy for me to be able to achieve this dream. 

I already visited France for an event in Toulon. I hope to come back and discover new places I don’t know yet. 

Either for my shows or for the shooting of a music video, I’m planning on coming back to Europe in the near future. So I’m counting on your support – from all of you! I hope to cross paths with you during my shows!

Many thanks to HANCE for accepting this interview!