
In the world of music, there are a few artists who possess the ability to transcend language barriers and attract audiences from diverse cultural backgrounds. Rising Japanese singer Risa Kumon is one of them. Her crystal-clear voice and unshakable courage transport listeners to a world without boundaries. With her unique vocal powers and magnetic stage presence, Kumon has been making waves in the music industry. Her latest album “RI-Verse” is set to make her position strong as a global sensation. Although she was born in Japan and grew up speaking only Japanese, her early journeys to Australia and America had a profound impact on her. These experiences not only helped her learn English but also cultivated a genuine appreciation for various music cultures and languages.
Pre-orders and release of “Ri-Verse”:
Pre-orders for “Ri-verse” began on June 28th, and the official release is scheduled for July 26th. R&B, jazz, acoustic, bossanova and the meditative sounds of Okinawa and Hawaiian influences are among the many genres on the CD. The CD is scheduled to hit the shelves as a special edition in late September, gracing record stores all across Japan. With a complex fusion of rich harmonies, lavish instruments, and immersive soundscapes that lead listeners to the furthest reaches of the planet, Risa’s most recent work gives a novel perspective on the world of music. The music video for her single “FREE” was officially selected from 3 film festivals around the world, in America, South Korea and Spain. This song has also reached the top charts of iTunes and Amazon in both Japan and USA. It is one of the few selected songs to be distributed in 7 inch vinyl from Japan to record stores around the world for record store day 2023.
“Ri-Verse” Meaning:
Delving into the heart of ‘Ri-Verse. Let’s disclose the exciting meaning. The attractive title of this album has a deep meaning inside it. The term Ri-verse is derived from the word reverse which means going back(returning). Risa’s verse (RISA’s lyrics, a segment, a Verse), and the notion of redoing or rebuilding elements within Risa’s Universe,” also refers to the world that Risa built. “Ri-Verse” is a call to artists to reinvent and redefine the limits of artistic expression in addition to its musical overtones. Risa Kumon mentioned wanting to make an album without limitations.
Contribution of Professionals:
A fantastic collection of experts have come together to create the musical masterpiece “Ri-Verse,” which features their talents. Some of the songs were expertly mixed by Grammy-winning mixing engineer Irko, who is best known for his work on Kanye West’s album “Donda,” ensuring a superior aural experience. Herb Powers Jr is a veteran known for his work with artists like TLC, Usher, Nelly, Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, Mariah Carey and many others, is the mastering engineer at PM Mastering Inc in New Jersey. Rolandis “Roro” Ramsey, a multi-talented artist/producer and media personality, served as the project’s creative director and record producer. Famous musicians are featured on the album including blind violinist Yusuke Anazawa, experienced bassist Kenji ‘Jino’ Hino, who is the son of legendary trumpeter Terumasa Hino and Yamaha-endorsed Israeli cellist Yoed Nir who is known for collaborations with esteemed artists. Amazing JIRO, a Tokyo-based Face & Body Paint and SFX Makeup Artist recognized for work in TV, His contribution to the album was body paint and special effects. He has done work for films and collaborations with artists such as Björk, Takashi Murakami, and others. Aritaka Nakamura, a famous floral designer who represented Japan in the Fleurop-Interflora World Cup 2015, brilliantly produced the head flower design. Cinematographer John Donica and film director/editor Lulia Puica are internationally award winning creators from Moldova in Eastern Europe. Those were the creative team who shot the music video for FREE. This gifted group has collaborated to create an unforgettable musical and visual experience that has captivated audiences all around the world.
Impact on the Music Scene:
“RI-Verse” is expected to have a significant impact on the international music scene. Kumon’s ability to effortlessly switch between languages adds a refreshing twist and gives her songs a unique edge on her compositions, making her music accessible to a broader audience. By blending diverse linguistic influences, Kumon has tapped into a global market, attracting listeners from different cultures and backgrounds.
Moreover, Kumon’s multilingual approach promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Music has always been a powerful medium for fostering connections. By embracing multiple languages, Kumon encourages listeners to explore and appreciate different cultures through her music. In an increasingly interconnected world, her album serves as evidence of the unifying power of music.
An emerging star:
Hailing from the culturally rich city of Sasebo, Nagasaki, Risa began her musical journey at a young age with her piano lessons. She grew up in a diverse community due to the military base in her city. For a short period, she studied in a junior school located in Australia. After high school, she went to Los Angeles where she studied music, language and participated in music creation. She participated in music creation and performed activities with international musicians and producers. She has performed as one of the headline performers on many stages including the FOX Japan festival, Nakasu Jazz Festival, international events on US military bases and US embassies in Japan, “Fukuoka Asian collection” etc. Risa serves as the host for several international radio shows in Tokyo, including R2 Radio, Risa’s Select, and her latest show, Trendy Pickups by Risa & Roro, which broadcasts from the renowned Tokyo station, Interfm 89.7Mhz. Additionally, she has collaborated with the well-known hip-hop group, The Pharcyde, to introduce a branch of their network, Pharcyde TV, to Japan through the R2 Radio network.Through her shows she has interviewed artists such as Dj Jazzy Jeff, Robert Glasper, Brain McKnight, Corinne Bailey Rae, Maxi Priest, Terumasa Hino and many others. The transforming potential of music from various cultures, languages, and mediums guided Risa throughout her entire life. Despite having Retinitis Pigmentosa and going temporarily blind from the measles, Risa’s love for music blossomed as she took inspiration from her experiences and the various sounds around her. Her artistic identity was shaped by music, which she used as a compass. This led her to become the artist she is today.

Conclusion:
Risa Kumon’s rise as a singer has been nothing short of remarkable. Risa’s multilingual album “Ri-verse” will be officially released on July 26th. With the release of her multilingual album “RI-Verse” Kumon will reveal her artistic vision and ability to transcend the language barriers. Through her enchanting melodies and dynamic performances, she has captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. As she continues to redefine musical boundaries, we can expect Risa Kumon to leave an unfading mark on the international music scene, inspiring other artists to embrace diversity and create music that knows no limits.

