Discover TOMOO
TOMOO is a standout in every sense. Beginning her musical journey at a young age, the Japanese singer’s distinct voice and original compositions have captured the attention of many. She now stands as a promising talent in Japan’s vibrant music scene.
This article answers frequently asked questions about the rising singer and songwriter, TOMOO.
Table of Contents
Who is TOMOO?
TOMOO is a Japanese singer-songwriter. Growing up with a deep passion for music and songwriting, she made her major record label debut at the age of 27.
Known for her strong musicality and one-of-a-kind alto voice, TOMOO brings a uniquely refreshing artistry to her music.
She was selected to be a part of Spotify Japan’s RADAR: Early Noise 2023, which showcases emerging talent in the country, and has also been referred to as a rising star in the music industry.
Where was TOMOO born?
She was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan.
What is the origin of TOMOO’s name?
TOMOO’s artist name is derived from her actual given name (友生), which is stylized in English with all capital letters.
How do you pronounce TOMOO’s name?
TOMOO is pronounced as “toh-moh-oh,” with an emphasis on the first syllable “toh.”
When did TOMOO become interested in music?
TOMOO’s interest in music traces back to early childhood. She shared that this was around the age of 2 or 3 when she started becoming deeply immersed in the world of Disney and Studio Ghibli movies. While young at the time, her vivid memories include watching The Lion King repeatedly, both in English and Japanese.
In an interview, she shares, “My parents often tell me about how I used to passionately sing those songs in a kind of ‘nonsense English,’ as they recall from back then.” This early passion for music laid a strong foundation for TOMOO’s future in the music world, beginning with the piano.
When did TOMOO begin playing the piano?
TOMOO began playing the piano when she was six years old. The decision was initially encouraged by her parents who noticed her fascination with a flat piano toy from a picture book. “I loved it so much that I played with it until it wore out” she shares in an interview, which inspired her parents to purchase her first electronic piano.
From there, she began playing her favorite music by ear. While she attended a music class in elementary school, she shared how she preferred playing by ear over reading sheet music, and would also continue to play piano in this manner.
Eventually, she began adding improvised melodies to the lyrics of songs, playfully singing along in the process. This would grow her interest in composing music; by the time she was in middle school, she was creating original songs.
What inspired TOMOO to pursue a music career?
While her early life was immersed in music, it wasn’t until a pivotal moment in TOMOO’s second year of middle school that she embraced pursuing a music career.
While she did not have many friends growing up, she developed a deep bond with a friend, allowing her to express her innermost thoughts openly for the first time. When this close friend sent them a heartfelt letter, she was incredibly touched but struggled to reply adequately. Instead of writing back, she turned to music and composed a song for her friend.
After sharing the song in her school’s empty music room, TOMOO’s friend encouraged her to pursue a path in music. As she has not previously shared her songs with someone so closely, this moment marked a significant change in her perception of her musical abilities.
“””Having someone be moved by a song I created made music become even more significant to me.”
TOMOO
Reflecting on the experience, she expressed, “Having someone be moved by a song I created made music even more significant to me.” This turning point marked the beginning of TOMOO’s serious pursuit of music.
How did TOMOO get recognized?
While continuing to release new music over the years, TOMOO’s breakthrough came with the release of “Ginger.” This song, released in August 2021, garnered attention from notable artists like Satoshi Fujihara from Official HIGE DANdism, Vaundy, Lilas Ikuta (Ikura from YOASOBI), and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu.
This recognition significantly boosted her music career, culminating in her major record label debut the following year. TOMOO describes “Ginger” as a love song dedicated to “you, who is like a cat.” The song’s cover photo features her own feline companion.
What is TOMOO’s major debut song?
“Othello” (オセロ) marks her debut with the major record label, IRORI Records. It was released in August 2022. Check it out below.
In an interview, she reveals that the song is inspired by the concept of duality, emphasizing the necessity of coexisting opposing characteristics. She articulates, “I don’t want to selectively keep only the good while discarding the bad. I believe that both exist side by side and are essential for existence.”
“I don’t want to selectively keep only the good while discarding the bad. I believe that both exist side by side and are essential for existence.”
TOMOO
What is TOMOO’s first anime song?
“Contrast” (コントラスト) is the ending theme for the second cour of Blue Box. This marks TOMOO’s first collaboration with an anime series.
In her official comment, TOMOO reflected on how writing the song brought back memories of her youth, recalling her emotions at that age. “Contract” reflects her admiration for “the wonderful people in Blue Box and their fresh emotional movements, which touched my heart.”
TOMOO also described being inspired by moments where “the characters respect each other and support each other,” calling those interactions “particularly precious.” She added, “I wrote it hoping to cherish those parts as well.”
What makes TOMOO unique?
TOMOO’s uniqueness is commonly characterized by her distinct singing voice. Praised by music experts as “a voice unlike any other“, TOMOO’s voice stands out uniquely as hers alone.
Her signature alto tone has been described in various ways: smooth, rich, powerful, grounded—to name just a few. Notably, it’s often referred to as genderless, a quality she embraces proudly. Growing up portraying male roles in theater club, she expresses, “I want to be someone who knows how to be themselves, who can’t easily be categorized as a woman or a man.” Her unique voice transcends conventional gender labels and helps her embrace authenticity.
Beyond her voice, TOMOO’s songwriting capabilities shine. Her piano skills, described as “percussive,” lend a dynamic edge to her compositions. Her lyrics combine strong imagery with a philosophical depth, akin to thoughts swirling in the mind. It’s a reflection that she attributes, in part, to her college background in psychology.
Together, these elements collectively position TOMOO as an artist of immense talent and great promise in today’s Japanese music scene.
Where can I follow TOMOO?
Follow the rising singer-songwriter through the links below.
Official Website
Social Media
Check out other artist profiles and articles on utatune.
