What’s your stage name and where are you from?
My name is Fox Spirit, and I’m from Japan.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
In Japan, Fox Spirit has the ability to shapeshift. My intention was that I could shapeshift into all kinds of mood, character, and genre.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
Both literally and mentally, I have been all over the place. I started playing music in Japan, then moved to the UK and became a rapper, then planned to go to the US, but ended up returning to Japan due to the pandemic. Now I have settled in Tokyo and currently make beats, run a band, as well as rapping as a solo artist.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
Since I moved here, the biggest question I had in my mind was, “What exactly is Japanese music, and how can I translate its charm to the world?” The sample I found for this song was from a Japanese-American band. The blend of the two cultures was encapsulated so well that I believe the answer to that “big question” has been answered partially through this song.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
You are not alone.
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
The theme of a “Tachinbo” (Japanese term for a prostitute who looks for customers on the street) was rather heavy and so real that I was honestly disgusted with myself as I wrote it. I broke down many times during the process. I never really overcame it, but rather there was a purpose to the song that shows light on what happens on the dark side of Japan, and hopefully, the future generation will be able to prevent making the same mistakes again. Especially for young adults who have yet to see the world for what it is, I hope this song will protect them. Real talk.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Kendrick Lamar. His TPAB album is what really got me to start writing raps. The artistry, the message, and the intricacy were just something that transcended beyond Hip-Hop and music as a whole. Earl Sweatshirt is someone I also would love to collaborate with for a similar reason. I relate heavily to his internal struggles and conversations that he raps about. I would also love to work with XXXTentacion, Juice WRLD, and 2Pac if they were still alive. My biggest influence to how I pen and why I do this. The message and their passion still hits me.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I would love to travel and do tours all around the world in the future, but as for next year, I want my music to be heard and felt in Japan and hope to have a name in this country.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
I started a Hip Hop band with me as the rapper and writer. We have been making a small buzz around Tokyo and we hope to continue that in the future as well.
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
You can listen to it on Spotify and all other streaming platforms. Type Fox Spirit and you should find my catalogue.
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
Instagram DMs.
