Why does Tamio Okuda not listen to much female vocal stuff?
When we come to music, Tamio's musicality, like his clothes, changes, but the core remains the same.
Okuda: Yes, I do. I still occasionally listen to songs on my iTunes that I used to listen to a lot, and the degree to which I like them has not changed. I like the sound of the guitar and the way they play. Of course, I know that there are better sounds and songs than back then, but the basic idea of "I like this song, so this is what I've become" has not changed. That has nothing to do with progress or evolution.
Do you listen to recent music or new genres?
Okuda: There are songs that I hear and wonder what they are, but I don't dare to listen to something new. As I mentioned earlier, one of the factors that determine whether I think a guitar sound or performance is cool or not is whether or not I can imitate it. That is why I don't listen to female vocalists very often. I feel that even if I tried to imitate them.... . And when I listen to music in this way, I find out what I can and cannot do, and that is why I cannot get involved in new things. . but it's still deep, and it's been 30 years since I started playing music.
I don't mean that in a negative way, but are you going to continue to keep yourself occupied and keep writing songs?
Okuda: Yes, I think the reasons for writing songs are gradually changing. At first, it was to show that I could do this kind of thing, that I could write this kind of song. But when there are a certain number of people who know Tamio Okuda, that changes. I don't write songs to show off my abilities, but for something, or to work with other people. At first glance, it may seem easier, but it is fun. . I don't think I am at the point in my life where I need to put myself out there anymore. I've already shown it, so I don't need to worry about it. However, it would be bad if I just keep saying that and keep playing the same old songs, so I have to work hard here (laughs). (Laughs.) I have the image of being lazy, but lately you have been really lazy, haven't you? (laugh)." That is not good for my work.
