Naoki Masada, a 35-year-old Enka singer, took a significant leap on April 1, 2025, by attempting indoor skydiving at the "Fly Station" in Saitama Prefecture. This event celebrated the upcoming release of her new song "Nina," marking her 10th anniversary since debuting as a singer and the 5th anniversary of her major label debut. Masada, who has openly struggled with a fear of heights, expressed her determination to overcome this challenge as a step toward her goal of performing on the prestigious NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.
During the event, Masada shared her aspirations, stating, "This is a year to accomplish anything." Despite her fear, she successfully navigated the indoor skydiving experience, which involved riding an updraft of 180 kilometers per hour. Initially appearing nervous, Masada's demeanor shifted to joy after the experience, as she exclaimed, "It was scary, but the feeling of floating was wonderful! I want to work hard to sing on a bigger stage with this momentum!" This reflects her commitment to personal growth and her aim to conquer her fears.
Masada's new song, "Nina," was written and composed by her mentor, Kozo Kazu, who is 72 years old. Set against the backdrop of Yokohama and Yamashita-cho, the song reflects deep emotions and aspirations. Kazu humorously noted that he had fewer demands for the song this time due to his busy schedule with theater performances.
As she continues her journey in the music industry, Masada has set her sights high. "I want to aim for the Japan Record Awards and perform at NHK's Kohaku Uta Gassen this year," she said, drawing inspiration from fellow artist Leo Ieiri, who made her Kohaku debut last year. Masada hopes to share the stage with her, showcasing her determination to rise in the competitive music scene.
Masada's fear of heights is well-documented, as she mentioned that she prefers living in semi-underground accommodations and once fainted on a Ferris wheel. Yet, her willingness to face her fears head-on during the indoor skydiving event symbolizes her commitment to personal and professional growth. "I aim to overcome my weaknesses one step at a time," she said, highlighting her resolve to make this year a transformative one.
Although her attempt at outdoor skydiving was thwarted by bad weather the day before, Masada remained optimistic about future challenges. "I was ready to jump from a plane, but I’ll definitely try again somewhere down the line," she stated, reflecting her adventurous spirit.
In a year filled with milestones, Masada's efforts in overcoming her fears and pursuing her dreams resonate with many. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder that growth often comes from stepping out of one's comfort zone. As she prepares for the release of "Nina," the singer is determined to ride the momentum of her recent experiences to achieve her goals.
As the release date for "Nina" approaches, the excitement surrounding Masada's journey continues to build. Her fans eagerly await not only the new music but also the inspiring story of a woman striving to conquer her fears and reach new heights in her career.
In summary, Naoki Masada's indoor skydiving challenge is more than just a publicity stunt; it symbolizes her determination to overcome personal fears and achieve her professional goals. With a new song on the horizon and a commitment to personal growth, Masada is poised to take her career to new heights.
