Utagokoro Rie, a rising star in the Japanese music scene, is set to make her major solo debut on April 2, 2025, at the age of 51. This highly anticipated debut coincides with the release of not one, but two albums, "SONGS" and "HEARTS," both priced at 3,500 yen (tax included). The announcement comes on the heels of her remarkable performance on the audition program "Trot Girls Japan," where she secured the runner-up position in 2024, showcasing her impressive vocal talent.
Utagokoro Rie has gained significant attention, particularly for her heartfelt cover of Mika Nakashima's hit song "Yuki no Hana," which has recently surpassed 10 million views on YouTube. This milestone has resonated with fans both domestically and internationally, with many expressing their emotional responses to her rendition. Comments on the video reveal how deeply her music has connected with listeners, with one viewer noting, "I start every morning with this song," while another shared, "My mother cried when she heard it." Such reactions highlight the profound impact her music has had on her audience.
In a recent statement, Utagokoro expressed her joy and disbelief at reaching such a significant milestone. "It feels like a dream that my song has been played 10 million times. Who could have imagined such a story? If we consider the population of Japan, that means one in every twelve people has watched it!" she remarked with a laugh. She further shared her aspirations, stating, "I aim for 100 million plays so that everyone in Japan can listen to it." Her passion for music and her desire to connect with others shine through in her words.
Utagokoro's journey to this moment has been marked by a series of impressive achievements. In January 2025, she recorded the highest score in the solo section of Fuji TV's "Uta Uma Queen Japan-Korea Battle - JAPAN ROUND-". This recognition further solidified her status as a formidable talent in the industry, paving the way for her upcoming debut.
On her debut day, fans can look forward to the premiere of four music videos, which are expected to showcase her artistic vision and vocal prowess. The anticipation surrounding these releases is palpable, as Utagokoro Rie prepares to share her music with a broader audience.
Both albums feature a variety of tracks that highlight her versatility as an artist. The "SONGS" album includes covers of beloved songs such as "Sonnet of the Clown" by Masashi Sada and "Melody" by Koji Tamaki, while "HEARTS" features renditions of classics like "Wings Please" by Akai Tori and "Love with a Bouquet" by Superfly. Each song has been carefully selected to showcase her unique interpretation and emotive singing style.
Utagokoro's rise to fame is a testament to her hard work and dedication. Her participation in the "Trot Girls" audition program, which debuted in Japan in 2024, provided her with a platform to showcase her talent and connect with fans. Since then, she has garnered a loyal following, with many praising her powerful voice and emotional delivery.
As Utagokoro Rie embarks on this new chapter in her career, she remains committed to her motto: "Song is heart." She aims to create music that resonates with people and provides comfort and companionship through her art. Her journey is not just about personal success; it’s about touching the hearts of others and sharing the joy of music.
With her major debut on the horizon, Utagokoro Rie is poised to become a significant figure in the Japanese music industry. Fans eagerly await the release of her albums and the accompanying music videos, excited to witness the next steps in her promising career. As she continues to break barriers and inspire others, Utagokoro Rie's story is one of hope, determination, and the transformative power of music.
