I had the good fortune to have a chat with the Japanese pop star, Masumi, a few weeks ago. Living in California, Masumi is a pop star who sings half in English and half in Japanese, and is quietly grateful and humble for her success.

How did you start playing music?

I started performing at an early age, because my father loves music too. That’s when I became interested in it, and started going to piano school.

At piano school I played all Classical composers, from Beethoven’s Moonlight to Chopin, whom I’ve been playing for 15 years. I gave a concert a year and been playing since then.

Why composition?

I was learning composition while going to music school. When I was a kid I was playing the piano for my composition, but nowadays I use technology for my compositions too — thanks to the modern science.

And now you’re a singer?

I studied singing two years ago and of late, in California, people have asked me to sing in Japanese festivals and some festivals on the beach. I love Janet Jackson and Alycia Keys and some Japanese artists as well. Those girls, they’re cool…they can really sing.

What do you think of Brittany Spears?

Brittany is very cool, Heaven knows if she can sing, but I love that kind of music.

How do you compose?

I’m always making tracks at 1p, 1am and 2am…I can focus at night and prefer it to the daytime.

So you’re like a vampire?

Yea, I like my garlic.

What are your next goals?

I want to do a soundtrack for a movie, but not yet; I also want to go to Japan to perform.

What is your beauty regimen?

I love chamomile flower oil  for the hair (my hair is so thin!). I really like natural products. Sometimes when my skin feels very itchy or dry I use Japanese products which are very nice.

I also love Shu Uemura eyelash curler and the eye makeup from Shu Uemura.

What’s your next big thing?

I am going to perform in NYC, and going to meet DJs and sell records. I’ll do this least 4-5 times  a year. I can’t drive my car all the time…I need a breather.

How is your music doing now?

My music is #17 on the Billboard hot singles chart and chart for Billboard. Check her out here! Her music is definitely a commingling of techno, pop and some Beyonce– she’s dangerous! You can buy her CDs on iTunes and on her MySpace page.

I for one, am already a fan. I love a strong downbeat, and I’ve always liked techno.

We heart and you and let us know when you’re in NYC….

xoxo