Ado, the 22-year-old singer who took the Japanese music scene by storm with her debut single "Usseewa," recently appeared on NHK General's "NHK MUSIC SPECIAL Ado" alongside actress Minami Hamabe, 24. The broadcast, which aired on April 24, 2025, at 10:00 PM, featured a heartfelt conversation between the two, reflecting on their journey and the impact of Ado's music.
During the show, Hamabe asked Ado about her initial feelings when "Usseewa" was released in October 2020, which quickly became a social phenomenon. Ado recalled, "When I heard the demo, the phrasing was really impressive." She went on to express her belief that no one had debuted with a song quite like it before, saying, "I felt like no one had debuted with that kind of song before." Hamabe chimed in, reminiscing about the song's omnipresence at the time, stating, "It was playing everywhere, and I thought it was amazing. Every song that came out was 'wonderful,' 'cool,' and 'liked.'"
Not only did they discuss Ado's music, but they also shared personal anecdotes that showcased their growing friendship. The two actresses became closer after Ado sang the theme song for Hamabe's drama in 2022. Their playful banter included Hamabe affectionately calling Ado "Don-chan"—a nickname derived from Ado's name—while Ado referred to Hamabe as "Kacchan." This lighthearted exchange was rooted in their shared experiences, including their appearances on radio shows together.
In a more humorous moment, Ado joked about her character Chinanda from the popular game "Taiko no Tatsujin," saying, "I spend so much time explaining it that I want it written in the Wikipedia entry." This reflects the playful nature of their relationship, which seems to thrive on mutual admiration and support.
As the conversation shifted to future plans, Hamabe eagerly suggested they challenge themselves to eat "gutsy ramen" together. With enthusiasm, she exclaimed, "I want to try the 'Abura Mashi Mashi, Ninniku Mashi Mashi' ramen!" She mentioned how she feels nervous going to ramen shops alone, a sentiment Ado echoed, saying, "There are a lot of women going to rich ramen shops, but I can't go alone. If we go together, I feel strong and can eat!" Their discussion about trying new experiences together highlighted their camaraderie and willingness to support each other.
Despite Hamabe's excitement, she also exhibited a cautious side, admitting, "I'm a beginner, so I might start with takeout places first." This blend of enthusiasm and caution adds depth to their friendship, showing that they balance each other out.
As the program concluded, the chemistry between Ado and Hamabe left viewers with a sense of warmth and connection. Their genuine friendship, characterized by shared interests and playful banter, resonated with the audience, making the broadcast a memorable experience.
In addition to the insights shared during their conversation, the episode also touched upon Ado's journey as an artist and the significance of her music in pop culture. "Usseewa" not only marked her debut but also sparked conversations about individuality and self-expression among young people in Japan. The song's raw energy and bold lyrics resonated with many, and its success has paved the way for Ado's promising career.
As Ado continues to rise in the music industry, her collaboration with Hamabe serves as a reminder of the power of friendship and support in navigating the challenges of fame. Both women are role models for their generation, demonstrating that pursuing one's passion while nurturing meaningful relationships is key to a fulfilling life.
In the realm of entertainment, Ado and Hamabe's partnership exemplifies how artists can inspire and uplift each other, creating a positive impact on their fans and the industry as a whole. As they embark on new adventures together, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this dynamic duo.
Overall, Ado's appearance on "NHK MUSIC SPECIAL Ado" was not just a showcase of her musical talent but also a glimpse into the heartwarming friendship she shares with Hamabe. Their conversation encapsulated the essence of collaboration and support in the entertainment industry, making it a delightful watch for fans and newcomers alike.
