The third day of Aloha Tokyo. We were finally blessed with Hawaii-like weather from the morning. The lawn had dried up, and fresh greenery enveloped the venue, as if the rain from yesterday was a lie.
Many customers had been visiting Yebisu Garden Place since the morning, with long lines forming at coffee shops and food trucks.
Customers also began arriving at Grass Point early before the concert started. Some people spread out sheets to enjoy picnics, while others sat on benches to rest in the shade, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves in their own way.
Rather than using the facilities and stage of the main stage, we deliberately tried to use the venue's materials as they were. We were conscious of its existence as a sub-stage, similar to what you'd find at a festival. The main venue of Aloha Tokyo has few places to rest or stay for long periods of time. We envisioned a plaza that could be used as a receptacle where people could enjoy themselves freely.
For this reason, rather than scheduling DJ and live performances in small increments, we created a timetable that allowed for ample time. We wanted to create what we call "just the right amount of time."
The DJ session started around noon under the warm sunshine.
DJ Ogi played a comfortable selection of Hawaiian music. He played in an open-air environment, something you don't often get to experience even as a DJ. He looked nervous at first, but after an hour it was clear he was enjoying himself.
The next performer, MOS, is also an artist with a relationship with POOL SIDE. Each member visits the store, showing a generosity that seems rare in this day and age.
Comprised of four members who play wind instruments, the group made their name known throughout Japan through the popular American audition program "American Got Talent." Needless to say, their talent is undeniable, and I've been to their live shows several times, and their performance and quality were truly impressive. The contrast between their large presence and strength on stage and off is truly intimidating. Given their experience on numerous big stages, their performance was probably a little disappointing. However, I'm very grateful that they readily accepted the offer.
In directing the stage, I wanted to go against the usual patterns and formulas in a good way, and I also wanted the audience to empathize with the greatness of the artists who are performing in a way that they cannot reach.
The sound of wind instruments reverberated under the clear blue sky. Everyone in the venue, both children and adults, enjoyed the performance. To my delight, the crowds at Grass Point were so large that it was nearly overflowing.
The next performance was a DJ set by DJ KAWASAKI. Not only is KAWASAKI a DJ, he is also a producer, and his wide selection of music and interpretation of music are fascinating precisely because he is not just a player. Not only does he have a broad perspective, but he also captures "sound" without being bound by tangible things like songs and titles. The pleasant sound and the fine weather made the beer flow.
Hanah Spring was one of the artists POOL SIDE really wanted to see perform. Not only is she talented and has a great voice, but the atmosphere she creates seems like a perfect match for Aloha Tokyo.
He's not just a good singer. He's one of the few artists who can captivate those who listen and watch. This is really difficult. There are many people who are just good singers, but there are not many artists who can reach the heart with their sounds, voices and words and touch the heartstrings.
And before Nick Kurosawa's live performance, DJ KENTA was warming up the venue. As they also collaborate on production, the flow of the show until the end was self-explanatory. His precise playing and solid song selection go without saying, and it's no wonder he impressed music lovers all over the country.
Many people also gather at the venue.
Then...rain began to fall. People who had been sitting on the lawn enjoying food and drinks began to leave the venue one by one. Just as I was beginning to feel devastated that the rain had caused me so much trouble, the sun returned. The temperature had dropped a little, and I regretted not being able to sit on the grass because of the rainwater.
However, DJ KENTA's performance brought the excitement back to the venue.
With the mood still good, it was time for Nick to perform. As always, we just enjoyed his performance.
It feels a bit rude to put the details into words.
People who had been waiting for his visit to Japan, people who were looking forward to his music, people who wanted to meet him, people I always see in Hawaii, friends, POOL SIDE customers, label mates, etc...
Each of them had their own reasons for attending the concert. The atmosphere in the venue seemed to be filled with human warmth and a comfortable passion. Just being able to see such a scene made me realize the meaning of bringing them to Japan.
Why did we invite them to Japan? Was it necessary? Did we have to invite them? It was a risk for us, and we had no experience even hosting a tour. We thought about it many times before making the decision. I feel like I found the answer after the final performance on the last day of Aloha Tokyo.
POOL SIDE has also completed its work.
As the excitement builds, the tour is finally heading towards its finale.
