At just nineteen years old, Suzu Toyama has already established herself as one of Japan’s most intriguing emerging creative voices. Moving seamlessly between music, visual art, film, and performance, her work is driven by a deeply personal and instinctive approach to storytelling.
Her latest single 'Nobody Now', taken from her new album 'Spin', finds her exploring themes of loneliness, change, and self-discovery with remarkable honesty and emotional maturity. Built around delicate arrangements, evocative instrumentation, and a striking vocal performance, the song captures the uncertainty of losing connection while quietly searching for strength within it.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
-
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I don’t remember “falling” for an instrument but I begged my parents to buy me a guitar when I was ten, although I left it untouched til I was 15.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Nothing comes to mind to be honest, but I think that’s because I was always surrounded by music, so its too natural for me to point out one. My dad was always playing old records and playing piano. I also remember dancing and singing to Perfume a lot as a toddler.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Yae -alive
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Recently I was listening to “we belong together” by Rickie Lee Jones and felt so envious that she and the musicians were able to create such a beautiful song, and felt thankful at the same time such a beautiful songs exists. But I don’t wish I’ve written it because I know it won’t be the same.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not really but I’m often alone when writing.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Lomelda
Maple Glider
Whitney
Buoy
Fabiano do Nascimento
This Is The Kit
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
All my friends and my family.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
That I get to connect with people and places beyond my imagination.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Worrying if people will show up to my shows. I’m always a little heart broken when no one or only little people show up lol.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Not an advice but just having adults including my parents that live their lives how they want, so I’m always reminded that I can too.
-
Suzu Toyama's new single 'Nobody Now' is out now. Check it out in the player below.