INTERVIEW | Koji Shimotsu: A Life Shaped by Music, Not Trends

Walking into the dimly lit backstage area of the Kyoto Bunka Hakubutsukan Bekkan, a historic venue, faint echoes of a soundcheck reverberating through the wooden walls could be heard. The air was thick with anticipation for the evening's performance — a solo live show, Juyo Bunkazai: Kyoto Bunka Hakubutsukan Bekkan Vol. 2, by Koji Shimotsu.

It was here, amid the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto, the frontman of Odotte Bakari no Kuni dressed in his usual understated manner, sat for an interview. He spoke candidly about his journey, his philosophy on music, and his vision for the future.

A Life Shaped by Music

"Music was always just there for me," Shimotsu said, recalling his childhood. "My dad played guitar, and it was natural for me to pick it up too. I never thought of it as a choice — it was just part of my life."

Growing up in a home where classic rock and folk music filled the air, Shimotsu was drawn to the raw authenticity of artists like The Allman Brothers Band and Creedence Clearwater Revival. "Their sound had something real, something that stuck with me," he explained. "I didn't just listen — I felt it."

*Koji Shimotsu performing live in Kyoto (©Japan Forward by Ami Eldridge)*

By sixteen, he had left home to pursue music on his own terms. "I wasn't interested in following a set path. The only thing I wanted to do was make music." He recalled the moment he decided to leave home. "I grabbed my acoustic guitar and my few belongings and left my parents' place. My friend let me crash at his place, and I started working part-time jobs to support my music."

The Power of Unfiltered Expression

Shimotsu's songwriting is deeply personal, shaped by emotion rather than any calculated formula. "I don't write thinking, 'This song should be about this.' The words and melody just come - simultaneously," he said, strumming an imaginary guitar with his fingers. "It's like a feeling that needs to be put into sound."

His music, often described as poetic and introspective, reflects his belief that authenticity is more important than commercial appeal. "I don't want to create something just because it sells. If I don't feel it, I won't play it. I think that's why my music doesn't fit into easy categories."

Performing live is where his philosophy truly comes to life. "A live show isn't just playing songs — it's about the energy, the moment," he said. "When I'm on stage, I'm not thinking about anything else. It's just me, the music, and the audience."

That philosophy was on full display during his Kyoto performance. Held at the Kyoto Bunka Hakubutsukan Bekkan, an Important Cultural Property, the concert carried a different atmosphere than the usual live house. "It's special to play in a place like this," he said before the show. "The history, the acoustics — everything adds to the experience."

An Alternative Vision for Japanese Music

Shimotsu is vocal about the challenges within Japan's music industry, where mainstream trends often dictate an artist's trajectory. "There's so much great music that never gets heard because it doesn't fit into what's 'popular' at the time," he said, shaking his head. "But people are open to different sounds — they just don't always get the chance to hear them."

He believes that Japan's music scene has become too industry-driven, focusing on what's easily marketable rather than fostering artistic diversity. "The music industry here follows strict formulas, which makes it difficult for unique voices to break through. But I think there's a growing audience for something different. People want real music."

*Koji Shimotsu (©Japan Forward by Ami Eldridge)*

Through Odotte Bakari no Kuni, he has carved out a space outside of industry norms, proving that independent and alternative music can thrive. "I don't think about whether something will be 'successful.' I just want to make music that matters. I want people to really hear the songs, to feel something. That's why I do this."

Life Beyond the Music

Despite his intense dedication to music, Shimotsu's life off-stage is equally significant. As a father of four, his perspective on the world has evolved. "Having kids changes everything," he admitted with a thoughtful smile. "You start thinking about the kind of world you want to leave behind. It's not just about freedom anymore — it's about creating something meaningful."

His children have influenced his music in unexpected ways. "Before, my lyrics were more about my personal life. Now, I think more about the future and the kind of world my kids will grow up in and write about peace. I want them to know that sharing music can be a form of spreading peace."

Looking to the Future

With a dedicated fanbase and a growing international presence, Shimotsu is considering expanding beyond Japan. "I'd love to record overseas, maybe collaborate with different artists," he said. "Music has no borders — it should be shared with as many people as possible."

His upcoming plans include extensive touring, with shows scheduled not only across Japan but also in China and Taiwan. "I don't see it as 'going global' or anything like that. I just want to play for people who want to listen, wherever they are."

Despite his increasing success, his artistic approach remains unchanged. "I don't care about stardom, just about making something real. If the music is honest, people will connect with it."

An Artist Who Inspires

Speaking with Koji Shimotsu was more than just an interview — it was a conversation about what it means to dedicate oneself to art. "You don't choose music," he told me. "Music chooses you. The only question is whether or not you listen." Shimotsu's unwavering commitment to authenticity is a rare and powerful thing. His music reminds us all to embrace creativity, to stay true to ourselves, and to keep moving forward — no matter where the path may lead.

Author: Ami Eldridgemusic,