Entertainment issue featuring Alan Walker and HYDE from legendary Japanese rock group L'Arc-en-Ciel.
YDE is partici- pating in many venues this year(2024)
HYDE: HYDE:I think there's a stereotype of HYDE from L'Arc-en-Ciel, which has been active for a long time. Because the name of L'Arc- en-Ciel has always been there. It's hard for people to understand what I wanna do as a solo artist. By appearing at festivals, I can forcefully show people, especially, who aren't my fans, so that these new fans recognize that "HYDE is doing something completely different now." I believe festivals are the most effective way to reach out to new fans. So I'm increasing the number of appearances at the festivals and trying to promote myself strongly.
FUSION: Memories of Past Live Performances at The Festivals in The US
HYDE: I've had the opportunity to perform at several festivals so far. But in 2019, there were quite a few storms hap- pening. The biggest festival we were set to perform at, "Welcome Rockville Festival," was canceled due to a storm, which was really shocking to me. It was truly frustrat- ing. At that time, all the staff and members just said, 'Let's drink,' and that's all we could do.
FUSION: Differences Between Japan and Overseas Festivals: What are the key differences HYDE notices between per- forming at festivals in Japan compared to overseas?
HYDE: Yes, as I mentioned be- fore, overseas audiences tend to be more passionate, while Japanese audiences come off as a bit shy. However, I don't I want this to be misunder- stood. While it's true that Japanese people can be shy, they are raised with a strong sense of consideration for others. For example, Japanese houses are not built with thick walls but with thin ones.
This is partly so that people can be aware of and consid- erate towards their neigh- bors, understanding if they are in trouble. So, while Japa- nese people may seem shy, they actually have a strong sense of empathy and con- sideration for others, which influences their behavior.
This is a great aspect of Japa- nese culture. For example, in terms of natural disasters, which often occur in Japan, but Japanese people don't panic from it. Although they might be used to it, they don't rush or push others aside at the disaster sites. Even if there are children, Japanese people maintain public safety order and form lines nicely. This behavior comes from a consideration for others and we're thinking 'I must not ། take away from others.' This is a beautiful part of Japanese culture, and I hope this aspect can be shared through over- seas magazines like FUSION. I mean Japanese people are not just shy.
FUSION: Many fans don't have the opportunity to to meet there favorite artist from Japan but FUSION is the bridge to make the connections what do you want all the viewers to know about you and what to expect for this year and the future
HYDE: As I mentioned earlier, after being active in Japan for a long time and also touring overseas, I still aim to con- tinue going around the world. I already introduced myself earlier, so I think I don't need to talk about myself. Please continue to support me from now on as well.