CHERRY WALLFLOWER
Indie Idol 🍒 Event Producer 🍒 Content Creator
ABOUT ME🌼
Hello Blossoms and random internet passerbyers!
Cherry here! 🍒Welcome to my website where you can learn more about me! This site is a full archive of everything I’ve done so far:
every performance, every event, and every chapter of my journey!Currently I live and work in South Korea as an English teacher and in my spare time I'm chasing my dreams as an indie idol making original music.With everything I do, my mission is to fight against ageism! Ever since I turned 30, I feel like I unlocked a new side of myself, and I want to help others overcome their fears of growing older.Thanks for stopping by! 💗
MY IDOL HISTORY 🎵
How it all began...I started singing and dancing live before I ever took a vocal or dance class. Why? I just believed in myself enough that it wouldn't be a terrible experience... hahaha... ha.Well, since my live idol debut performance, I wanted to show people that I could get better and better each time. So I kept performing even if I was still an imperfect work-in-progress.I chose to grow by doing: performing live, self-studying, and learning alongside friends and peers who helped me improve. Every show became a lesson, and every audience played a part in my evolution 🌈 And yes, I finally started taking vocal lessons periodically!
This is why I’ve taken so much inspiration from Japanese underground idols. Unlike major-label idols (who often train for years before debuting) many underground idols start with minimal professional training and grow in front of a live audience.At first glance, that might sound like a recipe for disaster... but the beauty lies in the evolution. With each live show, you can witness their progress: singing a little stronger, dancing with more confidence, learning to speak and entertain with growing charisma. That raw, unfiltered growth is what moved me most 🤩
I became a fan of Japanese pop music back in elementary school, so naturally, the songs I loved singing most were my favorite J-pop tracks. When I started attending anime conventions in high school, I realized they could be the perfect place to perform the music I loved! Something about singing or even just dancing to a non-English song back in the early 2010s outside of an anime convention felt too intimidating to me.After gaining experience performing at conventions, I took my passions to the next level by producing J-pop themed music events and eventually being the lead producer for live shows focused on promoting indie idols.
Below are videos of many of my performances dating back over… 10 years ago!? 😳
I’ve done many live shows, both as a soloist and as a part of various groups!It took me sooo many years to feel truly comfortable singing in front of a crowd, so I hope you can see my growth over time. Maybe you’ll even feel inspired to start your own journey... or at the very least, be entertained ❤️😆
MY YOUTUBE HISTORY 📺
I uploaded my first YouTube videos back in the mid-2000s when I was in middle school… but we won’t talk about those. Not yet, at least. 😅I officially created Cherry Wallflower TV in 2013, during my freshman year of college. My dorm roommate moved out for the spring semester to live with someone else, and no one else moved in. I had the entire room to myself! I didn’t put much effort into making friends on campus, which left me with a lot of time alone to… talk to myself!
2013 ~ 2014
Even though I had periodically uploaded silly videos since middle school, and song parody videos in high school, I was inspired to start a new channel during the rise of beauty gurus on YouTube. I thought it was incredible that they could get thousands of views just by sitting in front of a camera and talking about stuff they bought at the store... with minimal editing (for better or worse 😅)At first, I made troll-style makeup tutorials that poked fun at beauty guru culture. Around the same time, I also got really into watching anime convention vlogs. Whenever I attended a con, I’d vlog my own experiences too!Back then, my channel didn’t have much direction or strong branding. I just wanted to be funny and share my goofy experiences with friends.
2015 ~ 2016
In 2015, I studied abroad in Tokyo for one semester. Of course I vlogged as much as I could! While there, I joined my university’s idol dance circle, which truly inspired me to take my performing dreams more seriously. I had gotten a very brief taste of what being an idol could almost feel like.From then on, I slowly incorporated more idol-related content in my vlogs. From things like the behind-the-scenes of my idol-inspired dance group to backstage thoughts before a performance, I wanted to share the baby steps I took.By this time, I had totally moved on from parody and trolling videos, but that didn't stop me from uploading something goofy and nonsencial from time to time.
2017 ~ 2019
I became somewhat known for my anime convention vlogs. Gradually, I found more performance opportunities at conventions. My event productions outside of conventions were growing little by little, too.At that point, anime conventions and music events had become the center of my life and the center of my online content.
2020
Without the ability to make vlogs of anime conventions and music events, I had to switch up my content. I almost tried becoming a commentary channel... but it didn’t feel like me. I realized what I really wanted was for my channel to be a space where I could document my life, share unique experiences, and hopefully encourage others to break out of their shell and be themselves, too.Around this time, I started having more fun making storytime videos and little “show and tell” segments in the safety of my own bedroom.
2021 ~ Now
In 2021, I made the bold move to South Korea... which probably seemed totally random and out of the blue to most people, LOL. Since then, I’ve been uploading vlogs about life living in Asia from exploring various underground Seoul music scenes to traveling to Tokyo once a year and sharing those adventures.I'm also balancing working full-time with producing music and idol-related content. I've shared behind-the-scenes vlogs for filming song cover music videos, as well as uploading original music creations. It's hard to find the energy to do it all, but I'm the only one who can steer the ship towards my dreams so I have to do my best!✨
EVENT PRODUCTION HISTORY
Click on each event title image for more information!
FEATURES & COLLABS
Meet Cherry Wallflower from Citrus Idol Project!Interview with Overseas Idol Collection
The World's Idols - see you soon collaboration - by Melancholiaah(Appearance at 09:36)
Idol Music Video | Behind the Scenes - by TobbyTravelVlog Collaboration
Quoted in Tokyo Weekender - "Captivating a Global Audience: The World of Kaigai Idols" by Samantha Low
Survive [North West Idol Fest Unofficial Theme] - Music Video(Apperance at 2:09)
THE CHERRIVERSE
coming soon
SOLO PERFORMANCE HISTORY
2012
Metrocon Anime Idol Finalist (Tampa, FL)
2013
Metrocon Anime Idol Finalist (Tampa, FL)
2014
Maeda Atsuko the 14th from AKB0048 cosplay dance performance at the Metrocon exhibitor's hall stage (Tampa, FL)
2015
2016
Dance Cover Contest Judge's opening showcase at Holiday Matsuri (Orlando, FL)
2017
2018
Kira Kira Idol Concert at Anime Festival Orlando (Orlando, FL)
Kira Kira Pop Mini Stage at Anime Weekend Atlanta (Atlanta, GA)
Starlight Idol Festival at Anime Weekend Atlanta (Atlanta, GA)
Benefit Ball at Holiday Matsuri (Orlando, FL)
2019
Guerilla Live at Swampcon (Gainesville, FL)
Guerilla Live at Polycon (Lakeland, FL)
Guerilla Live at Metrocon (Tampa, FL)
2020
Dream Party (Online Showcase)Shining Idol Festival (Online Showcase)Music Matsuri (Online Showcase)Anison USA (Online Showcase)
2022
Dream Valentine Live (Oviedo, FL)
2023
Dream Valentine Live (Oviedo, FL)
2024
Brick City Idol Festival at Brick City Anime Festival (Ocala, FL)Akihabarock (Deland, FL)
2025
J-Pop Idols for Dummies: An Interactive Show! (Orlando, FL)Pop Meets Rock: Indie Night (Deland, FL)
PERFORMANCE GROUP HISTORY
Click on each group name image for more information!
My Articles 📖
From 2023 to 2025 I was a writer for International Idol Network's online zine "IDOLIZINE." I eventually stepped away from the zine to focus on my other creative projects, but I’m proud to have contributed to a platform that helped spotlight voices across the global idol community.
FLA48
FLA48 was my first venture into leading an idol-inspired group. I founded the group by meeting fellow J-pop fans at conventions and inviting them to join. Our goal was to perform J-pop dance covers live at anime-themed conventions and events.Through our performances, we hoped to meet other fans of Japanese pop music and introduce our favorite songs to audiences who were curious to learn more about this music genre.
In 2014, we had our first live singing and dancing performances at Metrocon. That weekend, we won the Director’s Choice award in the Anime Idol singing competition and the Best Drama award for our dance performance in the Cosplay Skit Contest!
The next year, in 2015, we performed at an underground chiptune and anime-themed music show called Kawaii til We Die in Orlando, Florida at Bikkuri Sushi & Lounge. We were invited to perform, and since it was an independent event outside of a convention, it felt really cool!
SPH MELLMUSE
In my junior year of university, I spent the spring semester of 2015 studying abroad at Sophia University in Tokyo. While there, I joined the school’s idol dance circle, SPH Mellmuse.The team was well-known among other university idol circles in Tokyo for its high standards, tight choreography, and competitive spirit by regularly ranking high in the UNIDOL (University Idol) dance competition. It was my first experience being part of a team that treated idol performance with such precision and professionalism, and it deeply influenced how I saw idol culture moving forward.
I performed with the group twice during my time in Tokyo. Our first performance was at the All Sophians Festival, a school-wide event that showcased performances from various university circles and clubs, including both current students and alumni members.
Next, we performed at the semi-finals of the UNIDOL competition. SPH Mellmuse advanced to the finals, but unfortunately, the final round took place after I had to return to the U.S. Still, being part of the team during such a competitive season was an unforgettable experience, and it pushed me to raise my performance standards moving forward.
CITRUS IDOL PROJECT
After returning to Florida, I was very inspired by everything I had experienced in Japan, so we rebranded FLA48 into what became Citrus Idol Project, incorporating citrus-themed ideas contributed by other members. I co-led the team alongside fellow member Kuririn.From 2015 to 2019, we grew from being just a dance group into a full-on singing-and-dancing J-pop cover unit. The original idea behind Citrus was to bring together members from all over Florida, so no matter where an event was held, there would be someone local who could perform.As we shifted focus toward live singing, the group needed to rehearse more often on a regular schedule. That meant tightening our lineup to include members who could consistently commit to in-person practices. We continued performing and growing throughout the years, but eventually stopped our activities in 2020 due to the pandemic and major life transitions among members.
2015
Citrus debut dance performance at Shadocon (Tampa, FL)
2016
Citrus Idol Project debut singing performance at Kira Kira Pop - November (Orlando, FL)
Performance panel at Shadocon (Tampa, FL)
J-Pop set - Idol Hell at Holiday Matsuri (Orlando, FL)
2017Citrus Idol Project Variety Show at OmniExpo (Orlando, FL)
Citrus Idol Project performance panel at OmniExpo (Orlando, FL)
Live idol singing set at Kira Kira Pop - March (Bikkuri Sushi - Orlando, FL)
Citrus Idol Project performance panel at Anime Festival Orlando (Orlando, FL)
Citrus Idol Project performance panel at Holiday Matsuri (Orlando, FL)
2018Citrus Idol Project Live at Swampcon (Gainesville, FL)
Citrus Idol Project at Kira Kira Pop - March (Orlando, FL)
2019Dream Stage at Anime Festival Orlando (Orlando, FL)
Citrus Idol Live performance panel at Anime Festival Orlando (Orlando, FL)
Lumica Stage at Anime Weekend Atlanta (Atlanta, GA)
HM AMBASSADORS
In the earlier years of the popular Florida convention Holiday Matsuri, there was a team of volunteers known as ambassadors. Their role was to promote the convention throughout the year by representing it at other local events, and to assist attendees who had questions or needed help during the convention weekend itself.
HM Ambassadors helped on stage through emcee hosting, and live performances!
Since many of the ambassadors were also fans of J-pop and K-pop dance, a performance team was formed within the group. During live competition events that needed filler time while judges deliberated, the HM Ambassadors would take the stage to perform popular J-pop and K-pop songs—keeping the energy up and the crowd entertained.The performance group eventually dissolved when the ambassador program itself came to an end after 2018.
Live Performance History
2013
Dance Cover Contest (Judge's deliberation filler time)
2014
Dance Cover Contest (Judge's deliberation filler time)
2015
Opening Ceremonies Performance
Benefit Ball Opening Performance
Cosplay Super Show (Judge's deliberation filler time)
2016
Cosplay Super Show (Judge's deliberation filler time)
2017
Opening Ceremonies Performance
Holiday Runway Contest (Judge's deliberation filler time)
Cosplay Super Show (Judge's deliberation filler time)
ROYAL BULLET
Royal Bullet was formed with one of my co-producers from Kira Kira Pop. The concept was to create an idol group that performed alongside a live band.Our debut was set for Daytona Beach Indie Fest, but unfortunately, we weren’t able to assemble the full band in time. Still, the group moved forward and used the performance opportunity as a chance to test the waters.Royal Bullet embraced a rock-inspired concept, covering songs from popular anime and drawing influence from Japanese alt-idols. The group was put on pause in 2020 and hasn’t resumed since.
LOVE LETTER
Love Letter was a temporary unit formed by myself, May, and Jubesy. We performed together for the first and only time at my event, AKIHABAROCK.The purpose of the group was simple: to collaborate in a way we hadn’t before and share the stage as a trio. After performing our joint set, we each broke off into our individual solo performances.
TWILIGHT TOKITOKI
coming soon
KIRA KIRA POP
Kira Kira Pop was my introduction to event production.
I was invited to join the team alongside two other showrunners, and my role was to serve as the resident idol performer. I was also responsible for selecting an additional idol act to join the lineup.The concept behind Kira Kira Pop was to bridge the gap between underground electronic music culture and J-pop fandom. At the time, genres like nightcore, hyperpop, and future bass were gaining momentum—and many of them pulled heavy inspiration from J-pop and anime culture.Although it was a relatively short-lived event series, Kira Kira Pop fundamentally changed my life. It connected me with some of the most inspiring and creative individuals I still keep in touch with to this day.At the time, idol culture (especially kaigai idols and indie idols) was still incredibly niche in Florida. But Kira Kira Pop became one of the first events in the state to actively uplift and showcase this growing community.
PLAY IT LOUD!
Play it Loud! was a sister show to Kira Kira Pop, created to spotlight underground artists working across various electronic genres—with a special emphasis on chiptune. While Kira Kira Pop focused more on the intersection of idol performance and J-pop-inspired sounds, Play it Loud! gave space to experimental and retro-inspired producers to take the stage.My role in Play it Loud! was behind the scenes. I created video content using footage from the events, capturing the vibrant energy of the performers and the crowd.
KIRA KIRA IDOL CONCERT
The Kira Kira Idol Concert was held in the Main Events room at Anime Festival Orlando. Originally planned as a hybrid event combining DJ sets with idol performances (in collaboration with Kira Kira Pop), certain elements of the concept weren’t able to come to fruition. As a result, the event was restructured into a full-fledged live idol concert.This concert became the first all-original concept, live-singing-and-dancing idol festival at a convention in Florida. It was a groundbreaking moment that showcased the potential of independent idols to command a main stage with their own original vision.
DREAM STAGE 2019
Dream Stage was the successor to the Kira Kira Idol Concert held the previous year. After that show, I set a goal: to pitch this format to other conventions and help grow the original-concept, live-singing-and-dancing indie idol scene in Florida. I put a lot of pressure on myself to make it a success—it was something new that most audiences weren’t used to, and it was my first time stepping into the role of lead producer for a full-scale show.Unfortunately, due to a miscommunication with the convention’s scheduling, our performance had to be cut short so the next event could start on time. I hadn’t realized that the time we booked included setup and breakdown—I thought the entire slot was for showtime. While it was a frustrating experience, it became the catalyst for me to start producing idol events outside of conventions, where I could have full control over scheduling, communication, and creative direction.Still, Dream Stage was a historic milestone: it was the first all-original concept live-singing idol fest to take place in the main events room of a Florida anime convention, and I’m proud to have brought it to life.
IDOL FEVER DREAM
Idol Fever Dream was an 18+ event held at Holiday Matsuri, hosted in one of the smaller panel rooms. As the name suggests, the show was exactly that: a chaotic, colorful idol fever dream. It featured a mix of absurd and unexpected idol song and dance performances, interwoven with skits and characters that were wonderfully zany and outside the norm.Because I was frustrated with how Dream Stage had turned out, I wanted to create a sort of spin-off event—something to remind myself that this all doesn’t have to be so serious. Idol culture can be messy, wild, and even unhinged—and that’s part of what makes it so fun.To this day (as of 2024), Idol Fever Dream is the event I’m most proud of—simply because it was so freeing to be weird. It was a celebration of creativity without rules, and a reminder that there’s room in this world for strange, surreal joy.That said, I do have one regret. For a short segment of the show, we used a high school concept. While all performers were over 18, I now recognize that using costumes associated with minors—especially in a provocative or comedic setting—can be problematic. I no longer condone that approach and have since grown in my understanding of how these choices can be perceived.That being said… I would love to revive this event someday—with even more ridiculous balloon shenanigans and surreal chaos. :P
DREAM PARTY (online)
Dream Party was the first online livestream showcase hosted under the Dream Stage event series.The concept? A cozy pajama party!I was inspired by BTS’ BANG BANG CON: The Live, a livestream concert set in a studio designed to look like a cozy home. I thought to myself—why couldn’t we recreate something like that within the kaigai idol community?Since this was during the height of lockdown and everyone was stuck at home, I wanted to create something that leaned into the situation in a fun, comforting way. We were already at home—so why not make that the theme and turn it into something joyful?Participants submitted performance videos of themselves in their pajamas, filmed right from their living spaces. Despite the limitations, the creativity and effort were amazing. From singing to dancing, everyone brought their A-game and tried their best to channel some positive energy during an incredibly uncertain, uncomfortable, and dark time.Dream Party wasn’t just a livestream—it was a reminder that even when we’re isolated, we can still perform, connect, and create joy together. Most importantly, it proved to me that we can exist as idols and spread joy even the stage is just our homes, not a physical lighted stage.
DREAM VALENTINE LIVE 2022
Dream Valentine Live was the first-ever stand-alone indie idol show in Florida. The event was held in Oviedo, FL and featured a sweet and playful Valentine’s Day theme.This was my very first time being the lead producer of an idol event outside of a convention setting. It was a huge undertaking: managing the venue rental, balancing the budget, purchasing decorations, gathering Valentine’s Day goodies to gift the audience, and coordinating all of the performers and communications involved.It was also a bit nerve-wracking. I had been living in Korea for a year, and I wasn’t sure what the current COVID-related event laws were in Florida—or whether anyone would even be interested in seeing me again, since the last time most people saw me perform was back in 2019.Thankfully, everything ran smoothly. I didn’t end the event in the red, and no major mishaps occurred. Each performer was able to complete their full set without issues. After the show, every audience member had the chance to take a group photo with all the idols and participate in an ample meet and greet session.While it was absolutely exhausting—juggling event management, rehearsing my own set, creating promotional materials, and feeling at times like I was just winging it in the dark—I’m genuinely proud of how this event turned out. For what it was, it did well. And more importantly, it reminded me of something crucial:No matter where I live, no matter how far I may be from Florida, I can never turn my back on this community. The Florida idol scene has so much potential, and I’ll always find ways to help it grow into the full, beautiful movement it deserves to be.
HallowDream (Online)
HallowDream was an online livestream showcase where idol participants were divided into two teams: Team Trick and Team Treat.Each performer was assigned to a team and submitted a video that matched their group’s theme. Team Treat leaned into bright, cute, and sweet song concepts, while Team Trick took on darker, edgier aesthetics and moods.To make things even more interactive, we let the audience vote for their favorite team! Voting was conducted on Instagram, where fans cast their votes by commenting either “Team Trick” or “Team Treat” on a dedicated post. After counting up all the responses, Team Trick took the win!The contrast between the two teams made for a dynamic and entertaining showcase. Everyone really brought their A-game, creating videos that were not only eye-catching but also highlighted their skills in singing, dancing, and overall idol charisma.
HollyDream (Online)
HollyDream was an online livestream event hosted on Christmas Eve. At the time, I was in my second year of living in Korea and still didn’t have much of a local network to spend the holidays with. To help combat the homesickness, I decided to create something fun that would let me connect with others and focus on something I’m passionate about—idols—as a way to lift my spirits and distract from the holiday blues.Some critics thought that hosting the livestream on Christmas Eve was inconvenient or ill-timed—but I knew I wouldn’t be the only one spending the holiday alone. I wanted to give those audience members something to look forward to, too—even if it was just a few hours of cheerful performances and warm-hearted messages across a screen.Before each performance, participating idols submitted a short video sharing their favorite holiday traditions. With such an international lineup, it was lovely to hear about the diverse ways people celebrate around the world.The performances themselves were just as varied. From original idol music to classic Vocaloid songs, and even a few meme-worthy surprises, the showcase tied itself up in a wonderfully eclectic, joyful bow. It was silly, sentimental, and sincere—exactly the kind of energy I needed that year.Before each performance, participating idols submitted a short video where they talked about their favorite holiday traditions. Since we had an international mix of performers, it was really heartwarming to hear about the different cultural and regional celebrations that people hold dear.The performances themselves were just as diverse. From original idol songs to classic Vocaloid tracks, and even a few meme-worthy surprises, the showcase tied itself up in a wonderfully eclectic, joyful bow. It was silly, sentimental, and sincere—exactly the kind of energy I needed that year.
ValenDream (Online)
ValenDream was an online livestream event that served as a pre-party for Dream Valentine Live, which took place the next day.Participants were invited to join the stream by submitting three videos:One performance videoOne confession videoOne “accept or reject” outcome videoThe premise of the livestream was to simulate a dating sim experience, with idols acting as if they were confessing their romantic feelings to the audience. Before each performance, a "confession" video played, where the idol delivered their heartfelt (or hilariously awkward) Valentine. This was followed by a Valentine's Day-themed performance video, full of charm, cuteness, and character. Finally, an animated sequence played to simulate whether the idol's confession was accepted or rejected—and with joy or heartbreak, each idol brought their A+ acting skills to bring the fantasy to life.I really loved this concept, and even though livestream events aren’t quite as popular as they were during the peak pandemic era, I would love to bring this one back. It was silly, sincere, and full of love—everything I want idol events to be.
DREAM VALENTINE LIVE 2023
This was the second Dream Valentine Live show, once again held in Oviedo, FL. Much like the previous year, attendees enjoyed idol performances, interactive games, and plenty of meet & greet time with the performers. The event wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our online donors and, of course, the amazing audience members who showed up in person to cheer us on.One major improvement this time around was the addition of volunteer staff who helped with event setup, filming, and keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. I had always been hesitant to ask for help outside my immediate circle, but I couldn’t have been more pleased—or more grateful—for the incredible people who stepped in and gave their time and energy so willingly. I’ll truly never forget how wonderful it felt to work with such a kind and capable team. 💖This would also be the final Dream Valentine Live, as I’ve decided to shift my focus toward producing music events with broader, more flexible themes. This will allow for easier marketing and greater collaboration—especially with artists and communities outside of the indie idol scene.
AKIHABAROCK
AKIHABAROCK was a stand-alone music show that brought together indie idols and indie rock artists. My goal with this event was to create a space where the indie idol community could connect with Central Florida’s local indie music scene, promoting a crossover of audiences and cultures.By bridging these two worlds, I hoped to help introduce idol performers to a broader base of music fans outside of anime conventions—and begin normalizing the presence of idols in underground and alternative music spaces.
Event vlog and more photos coming soon ✨
POP MEETS ROCK: INDIE NIGHT
coming soon
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why are you "Cherry Wallflower?"
I originally created this username for my Gaia Online account back in middle school—around 2006. Honestly, I just mashed together parts of usernames from two cool users I admired at the time. So yes... completely unoriginal, LOL.The “wallflower” part was inspired by the book The Perks of Being a Wallflower, which I read in 6th grade after borrowing it from a friend’s older brother. I liked that “wallflower” sounded cooler than just saying “I’m shy.” It gave my quietness a little more meaning, even if I didn’t fully understand it at the time.When I started my current YouTube channel in 2013—after leaving my original middle school one—I couldn’t think of any other name, so I stuck with cherrywallflower. At first, I didn’t even introduce myself properly on the channel, since the whole goal was to be a troll/parody account and confuse people. But over time, commenters started calling me Cherry, and when I began performing live and taking my creative work more seriously, I adopted Cherry as my official stage name. Using my real name felt too personal, and “Cherry” already felt like a part of me.So… why “wallflower,” really?Some people have said that calling myself a wallflower doesn’t make sense because I come across as bold and confident. But the truth is—being a wallflower is still my core nature. I’m quiet in everyday life. I don’t naturally want to make a scene or draw attention to myself. It took me years to build the confidence to talk to strangers, be outgoing in social settings, or perform on stage. Every bit of energy I give in public is a conscious choice.Growing up, I was shy, anxious, and reserved. I remember one moment in middle school when a girl turned to me in the lunch line and said, “You can talk?” Anytime I let my personality show, people were surprised.That’s why I keep “wallflower” in my name. It’s a reminder to myself—and to others—that just because someone is quiet doesn’t mean they don’t have something loud, colorful, and powerful inside of them. You can bloom on your own terms. You can be both gentle and fierce. You can be the one people overlook—until you’re the one they can’t stop watching.
MUSIC RELATED QUESTIONS
What is an indie idol?The term indie idol refers to a growing subculture that blends inspiration from Japanese idol culture with a DIY, grassroots approach. While the movement began online in the 2000s—originally referred to as net idols (people doing idol activities strictly online)—it eventually evolved into something bigger.As more net idols began performing at anime conventions and local events, especially in the West, a new wave of idol performers emerged—people who were inspired by Japanese idol music and aesthetics, but who created their own path outside of the traditional industry system.Many indie idols take direct inspiration from Japan’s underground idol scene, where small, independent acts often perform live, self-produce their content, and build fanbases through raw passion rather than industry backing.To be an indie idol means we’re taking our pop star dreams into our own hands. Instead of waiting to be discovered, signed, or validated by a major label, we choose to do it ourselves. Yes, there’s some irony in being a “DIY idol”—since the word idol traditionally implies mainstream polish and production—but let’s be real... after 2020, does anything about pop culture follow the rules anymore?Common characteristics of indie idol activities include::Live performances that involve singing and dancing with various levels of choreography, stage presence, and crowd interaction.Selling merchandise featuring the idol's image or branding, such as posters, photo cards, keychains, and Polaroid-style cheki, sometimes with fans.Active use of social media to connect with fans and share their personality, process, and journey.Encouraging penlights, glowsticks, or lightsticks at performances to create a shared fan experience and lively concert atmosphere.Being open about their growth, allowing fans to witness and support their development—not just the polished final product.Being an indie idol isn’t just about the sparkly costumes or catchy songs (though we love those too!)—it’s about reclaiming the idea that anyone can step into the spotlight, tell their story, and build their own stage. 🌟
What is the difference between "kaigai" idol and "indie" idol?Kaigai (海外) is the Japanese word for overseas. The labels kaigai idol and overseas idol are interchangeable, and many performers use both terms depending on stylistic preference. While often overlapping with the indie idol scene, kaigai idols have their own distinct characteristics.Kaigai idols take inspiration primarily from Japanese underground idol culture, but with a strong focus on replicating the traditional fan-performer dynamics seen in Japan. This often includes:Performing covers or original songs in JapaneseEncouraging active audience participation through MIX (idol chants) and wotagei (penlight choreography)Streaming on Japanese platforms, using Japanese in social media posts, and working to gain a Japanese fanbase outside of JapanWhile most kaigai idols are indie idols, not all indie idols are kaigai idols. The distinction lies in aesthetic and cultural focus:Indie idols may perform in languages other than Japanese (e.g., English, Korean, Spanish)They may not emphasize wotagei, MIX, or other Japanese audience traditionsTheir influences may include Korean idols, American pop stars, or a fusion of multiple global stylesThe tone can vary more widely—from sugary cute to edgy, theatrical, or experimentalIn short:
👉 Kaigai idols aim to recreate the Japanese idol experience outside of Japan.
👉 Indie idols build their own version of the idol experience—sometimes inspired by Japan, sometimes not, but always from the heart.
Where do I fall?I consider myself primarily an indie idol with kaigai idol roots. Either label works for me, but as I continue to release more original music, I find myself identifying more with the indie idol label.Most of my original songs will be in English, and some of them may move away from the sounds typically associated with Japanese pop. That doesn’t mean I’m leaving those influences behind entirely—just that I’m growing into a space that reflects my full creative range.Depending on the live event, I may still include Japanese song covers, but they won’t be a central part of every performance. I also plan to continue uploading Japanese vocal covers online from time to time, as that will always be part of my roots.At the end of the day, my idol identity is evolving—but it’s always grounded in self-expression, community, and the belief that idols can look and sound like anything, as long as it comes from the heart.
MISC GROUP PERFORMANCES
Temporary fill-in for MAJiKA - Holiday Matsuri Idol Fest 2019 (Orlando, FL)
DISCOGRAPHY
Adore Me! - 2024