Kae Tanaka

Could you tell us about your work?

I'm an artist and illustrator. I also work a day job.

When and where do you usually listen to music?

Always when I'm commuting or working.

What song would you like to share with us today?

"宙船" (Sora-fune) by "TOKIO", from the album HEART.

How and when did you first come across this song?

When I was in elementary school, I was obsessed with the drama My Boss My Hero, and "宙船" (Sorasen) was its theme song. I had the single, but I can't get to it at my parents' place anymore — so I'm sharing the album I have at home instead.

Do you have any particular memories or moments you associate with this song?

I love the line 「何の試験の時間なんだ〜」(What kind of test is this, anyway?). I used to listen to it a lot in the car, so it brings back memories of being taken all kinds of places by my family.

In the car we'd also listen to my mum's favourites — "Destiny's Child", "Beyoncé", "Ne-Yo", "The Beatles", and the soundtrack to I Am Sam. There was always a lot of music from outside Japan playing.

Also, my mum always said "Tomoya Nagase" was so cool. I agree.

How do you feel this song has influenced who you are today?

If I were to quote the lyrics: 「おまえが消えて喜ぶ者に、おまえのオールを任せるな。」(Don't hand your oars to those who would rejoice at your disappearance.) — I think I'm actually living by that.

Very "Nakajima Miyuki". Such a cool lyric.

Is there any music you've been listening to lately, or any artists you've been interested in?

I believe that if you're doing what you need to do, you're allowed to feel good about yourself — and for that kind of mood boost, "aespa" is it. The lyrics are worth reading too. My walking pace literally speeds up. Highly recommend.

Lately I've also been into "Sabrina Carpenter" and "no na". I'm drawn to music that feels independent and sexy.

Is there anything you make a point of doing in your everyday life?

Changing my nails. Getting lash perms. Not letting my skin break out. Doing my makeup every day (or I lose the touch). Drawing something every day (same reason).

Do you have any upcoming exhibitions or announcements you'd like to share?

I have a solo exhibition in October this year. I'll announce it on social media when it gets closer.

PROFILE

Kae Tanaka

Born in Yokohama, Kanagawa. Graduated from Tama Art University. Artist and illustrator. Began drawing after being inspired by "Osamu Tezuka" and "Hidoo Azuma". Has created work for "aespa", "GLAY" (HISASHI), "Onitsuka Tiger", "BEAMS", New Japan Pro-Wrestling's "El Desperado", and the Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai mural. Also produces figures, plush toys, and apparel. Has collaborated across a wide range of genres, including fashion brands such as "NEEDLES" and "KIDILL".