The life and music of the beloved singer Yūki Hachida were celebrated during a heartfelt memorial event titled 'Yūki Hachida Memorial Night,' held on December 26 at the New Hakuba cabaret in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture. The gathering, which attracted around 170 adoring fans, took place at the location where Hachida had first performed before her career took off.
Yūki Hachida, who passed away late last year at the age of 73, began her musical career shortly after graduating from middle school, singing at the New Hakuba. Throughout her life, she maintained her ties to the venue, often returning to perform when she was back home. The event was organized by a company closely associated with Hachida, with support from local officials. Mayor Hiroki Nakamura reflected on her legacy, saying, 'Yūki was truly a wonderful person who contributed to Yatsushiro in many ways.'
The memorial event included live performances featuring her hits such as 'Funa Uta' and 'Namida Koi,' which were played on record, and offered heartfelt tributes from friends and colleagues. Singer Natsumi Saijo dazzled the audience, performing pieces from Hachida's catalogue, including 'Destiny Love – The Fated One,' wearing the stage dress Hachida had adorned during her twenties.
Emotions ran high as Saijo sang, prompting tears from the audience and evoking memories of shared moments with the iconic singer. 'I felt emotional from the rehearsal,' mentioned Yoshinobu Ikeda, the event's representative. The gathering was not just a celebration of music, but also of community and shared memories.
One of the attendees, 74-year-old housewife who has followed Hachida's career for three decades, expressed her joy at attending the event. Holding up a handmade fan bearing Hachida's image, she said, 'I’m really glad I came.' This sentiment encapsulated the feelings of many who gathered to honor the singer's memory.
Among those sharing memories was 98-year-old Fusae Nishida, affectionately known as the 'Big Mama' of New Hakuba.' 'I had known Akichan since she was little; she was talented and cute,' she shared, reminiscing about the early days they spent together. The sense of nostalgia was palpable, creating a space where fans could unite and commemorate the impact Hachida had on both their lives and the broader music scene.
The event highlighted not only the artistic legacy of Yūki Hachida but also underscored the inseparable bond between the artist and her community. Through her voice and presence, Hachida brought joy to many, and her memory will undoubtedly continue to resonate with those who knew her or cherished her music.
