An Exclusive Interview with J-Pop Superstar HYDE: On Music, Jekyll & Hyde, and Global Audiences

HYDE, the charismatic front-man of L’Arc-en-Ciel and VAMPS, has been a defining figure in the world of J-pop and Japanese rock for decades. With his ever-evolving artistry and dedication to exploring new musical territories, he has gained a global fan base. In an exclusive interview, HYDE shared his thoughts on the rise of J-pop, his creative process, and the joys and challenges of performing worldwide. This follows his short tour in the US this year.

J-pop’s increasing international popularity has been a thrilling development for HYDE. For years, Japanese music struggled to gain recognition outside of its homeland, but now it’s rising alongside cultural phenomena like anime. “I’m glad Japanese music is finally getting more recognition overseas,” he shared. For HYDE, J-pop’s unique style sets it apart from other genres, and creating music for anime offers an intriguing challenge. He finds inspiration in the visual imagery of the stories, crafting music that complements the world of each series. This connection between sound and image also informs his work with L’Arc-en-Ciel, where he imagines how the band might bring a concept to life.

Jekyll and Hyde

As a solo artist, HYDE takes a different approach to music. He envisions the kind of live show he wants to perform while writing songs, favoring smaller, more intimate venues that allow him to interact closely with the audience. “Smaller shows let me go wild and have fun,” he explained. His latest album is his hardest and most edgy work yet, reflecting a duality he likens to “Jekyll and Hyde.” This sharp contrast between his heavier, intense tracks and more refined, jazzy elements defines his current artistic journey of Hyde versus Jekyll.

HYDE’s willingness to experiment with genres keeps his music fresh. Looking ahead, he hopes to deepen this duality—pushing the “HYDE side of his music to be more intense while exploring a jazzy sophistication on the “Jekyll” side. This constant drive to try new things stems from his belief that there’s always more to create. “There’s so much I haven’t done yet,” he said. Even with decades of experience, HYDE’s creative aspirations remain boundless.

Performing in the US vs Japan

Performing in the U.S. has been a particularly rewarding experience for HYDE, offering a stark contrast to the reserved nature of Japanese audiences. American fans are unrestrained in their emotions, responding vocally to every moment of a performance. “If I do something on stage, they react right away,” he noted. Japanese audiences, by comparison, are more restrained, making it harder for HYDE to gauge their reactions. While this cultural difference can be challenging, he appreciates the energy and spontaneity of American crowds.

Touring in the U.S. also comes with unique challenges. From jet lag to the physical demands of life on the road, it’s a grueling process. Yet, HYDE finds joy in the enthusiasm of his fans. He often takes the opportunity to connect with them through gestures like signing autographs—something he doesn’t do as often in Japan. These moments remind him of the deep bond he shares with his international audience.

HYDE Himself

As technology and the music industry evolve, HYDE is excited about what the future holds. He plans to release another orchestral album, a follow-up to his earlier work, while continuing to develop heavier tracks. Fans can also look forward to his involvement in the upcoming World Expo in Osaka, where he promises to bring his signature creativity to new projects.

Despite his many achievements, HYDE remains grounded. When asked about something fans might not know about him, he revealed a small but endearing detail: he recently changed his phone wallpaper to a different red panda. “It’s so cute,” he said, laughing. This simple act reflects his ability to find joy in life’s little moments—a quality that undoubtedly fuels his artistic spirit.

HYDE’s journey is a testament to his versatility and passion. Whether performing in sold-out arenas or intimate live houses, his commitment to his craft and his fans remains unwavering. With new projects on the horizon and a relentless drive to innovate, Hyde continues to solidify his place as a global icon in music.

Written by: Diana Kamel
Interviewed By: KEI
Photos By: Ericka Puyat