Sign up for our newsletter

Stay informed on our latest news!

Tohji is Too Cool

This should come as no surprise, because as anyone could tell, Tohji is a man who likes to have fun and look good doing it. The artist presents himself as the midpoint of multiple worlds and styles; he is a rapper, yes, but with a keen eye for visuals as his, Tohji seems like some creation wholly unique.

 

A rapping, high-fashion inspired incoclast who seems to have wandered off an early aughts film set. Take the visual for his breakaway hit, "Oreo." A delirious beach day, all hazy sunshine, drag-racecar donuts in the sand, and friends and liquor in equal measure. Tohji is ringleader among them, leading us through the hedonistic scene with an ease and sense of fun perfectly suited to the music.

 

Here, we find out a little more about the man behind the persona without it being enough to demistify; Tohji obviously knows better than to allow that.

How long have you been making music?

 

2-3 years.

 

Does music run in the family?

 

My dad regrowing their hair, wit the frontier spirit.

 

What is your process for making music? Do you write lyrics or improvise?

 

Both. 

 

You record music in both Japanese and English. What’s the thought process behind using both languages? Is it important that people understand the lyrics to you? Or is it more about rhythm and melody?

 

Using both languages is my most natural way to express. I want listeners to feel my music as a whole. I create the atmosphere with music and visuals, not just with lyrics.

 

Last year you dropped the Angel EP, and this year "Oreo" has brightened your star quite a bit with remixes from high profile artists. How have things changed for you between projects?

 

I put out Angel and played several gigs in Europe and Asia. I made new friends through those times who gave me new inspirations to my work. I’m always making music for my friends so I think there was a definite change through that process.

 

If Covid weren’t a factor, what would you ideally like to be doing this year in terms of music? Any projects on the horizon?

 

I would want to go back and forth around Asia, making music, seeing my friends there, also spending some time in western countries would be nice. I know there’s a lot going on in Asian countries, but I haven’t been there many times. We could have gigs in different cities, making new atmosphere with new friends.

 

You described yourself as “the new visual Beatles," and it’s an intriguing quote. Visuals seem to be a big part of your artistry; do you think your image is of equal importance to your music?

 

Yes! I make a whole big swag.

Who are your visual influences? Films, artists, video games? Anything in particular that inspires how you present yourself to an audience through album covers, Instagram or music videos?

 

When I quit my high school, I spent a year in my room watching movies, drinking a bottle of whisky everyday. That was precious time for me.

 

Musical influences? If you could collaborate with anyone right now, who would it be?

 

Punk, crunk. My friends.

 

Do you have a favorite song of your own right now?

 

My project for the next summer.

 

Are there any local Japanese artists that inspire you? That you’ve been listening to and would want to give a shout out to?

 

LootaElle TeresaLe MakeupMall Boyz.

 

Genie in a lamp. Three wishes. What are they?

 

No thanks.

Confirm your age

Please confirm that you are at least 18 years old.

I confirm Whooops!