Toshikazu Hirai

Could you tell us about your profession?

I'm an illustrator. I provide work across various media, but advertising is my main focus.

In what kind of environment or moment do you usually find yourself listening to music?

First, during moments when my mind goes blank — cooking, cleaning, driving — times when I'm focused yet empty-headed. I like how music seems to seep in naturally during those moments.

Then right when I arrive at my studio. It naturally helps me shift my mindset and settle into the space.

Could you tell us the track you'd like to introduce for this feature?

David Byrne — "Who Is The Sky?"

When did you first discover this song or artist?

It's a 2025 album, so quite recently. I came across it through his official YouTube channel.

How did you first encounter this song, and what memories does it hold for you?

This might not quite answer the question as intended, but I love everything he's made. He's the vocalist of Talking Heads, and the first time I came across his name was a passing mention in a Haruki Murakami novel. I didn't listen to his music right away, but the name stuck with me — something I kept coming back to.

Eventually I bought a CD and listened, but at first the sound felt different from the Japanese rock I was used to — I couldn't quite find my footing. Gradually, though, I started to settle into his unique world. It wasn't an instant love; it was more like a slow acceptance, until I looked up one day and realized he'd become one of my favourite musicians.

"Who Is The Sky?" is as wonderfully strange, bright and cheerful as ever — completely unhinged and yet totally pop. It's brilliant.

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

It makes me feel like — maybe it's okay not to be like everyone else. Maybe I can trust what I'm feeling.

Is there any music or artist you've been into recently?

I've long loved the Argentine artist Juana Molina — I always pick up her new releases without fail.

Is there anything you try to value in your everyday life or lifestyle?

In an age of information overload, I make a conscious effort to keep my distance from it. For me, that means caring for my cats and plants, cooking, cleaning — the ordinary routines of daily life that give me time to come back to myself, away from external noise.

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

I'll be holding a solo exhibition at HB Gallery in Omotesando in September.

PROFILE

Toshikazu Hirai

After graduating from Tokyo Zokei University, worked at an advertising agency specialising in sales promotion. Later transitioned to a career as a freelance illustrator.