[Honey’s Anime Interview] Nowlu singer of The Ice Guy and His Cool Female Colleague ending theme Linaria

Hello, nice to meet you! Please let us know about yourself. Why did you decide to become a singer? Were you interested in music from a young age?

Although I had always wanted to become a performer, it wasn't until a meeting with my teacher, parents, and myself during my third year of high school when I suddenly realized and expressed my desire to pursue this path. This may have been the moment that led me here. After that, I participated in auditions and pursued independent activities, which led me to meet a producer from a label, and that is where I am today.

You contributed to the composition of some of the songs of your EP “Rasen”. Can you tell us what things inspire your songwriting?

I find inspiration not only from movies and novels but also by imagining what might come next from things that happen in everyday life. When I want to write lyrics, I go through the ideas I've accumulated and expand upon them until a story quickly emerges.

You participated in the audition “THE OVERSEA TREASURE 2021”. Can you tell us about this process and your feelings at the time?

I approached this audition with the mindset that it could be my last chance. The day before I applied, I had a big fight with my sister while discussing my career. The tough but loving words from her, "If you're not ready to make that kind of commitment, then you should just quit!" gave me the motivation I needed to decide to go all-in for this opportunity.

Your latest song “Linaria”, released on February 22nd, is the ending theme for "The Ice Guy and His Cool Female Colleague". Likewise, your song “Stuck on you” was used as the ending theme for “More than a Married Couple, but Not Lovers." last year. How does it feel to have the songs you sing be part of these projects?

Even though I can hear my voice from the TV, I still feel like I'm floating, as if in a dreamlike state. It’s still kinda unbelievable and that feeling has been with me for a long time. I don't want to forget this feeling of "dreamlike happiness" even as I continue to advance in my career.

Speaking of anime, tell us about your favorites!, if you have any.

I'd like to recommend "Orange"!

From the early scene of the letter, “Orange” grabs your heart and pulls you into the story. Despite having an element of parallel worlds, it feels very real and can make your heart ache unbearably. It also makes you realize the importance of cherishing the present. The way Naho and her friends come together to protect Kakeru is truly moving, and it's hard to hold back tears.

I think it's a very gentle work, so I like to watch it on days when it's okay to cry, or when I want to cry. By the end of it, you'll feel inspired to cherish your daily life even more. It's a beautiful work that touches the heart.

Please tell us about your life outside of work. How do you like to spend your days off?

I tend to visit coffee shops a lot! I feel calm when I'm in a place with a warm, dark atmosphere that suits dark antique colors. I also gather inspiration for my lyrics in these places. Being in these kinds of places makes it easy for me to come up with lyrics.

Tell us about your future plans! Are there any new things you plan on trying this 2023? What are some of the things you are looking forward to?

I want to perform live! I think it could be a way to give back to the people who support and love my music.

If given the opportunity, I would love to perform in the United States too! I would also like to try doing a session with local musicians there!

I feel very lucky to have this opportunity to get to know Nowlu and her music very early in her career. I would like to recommend to everyone to watch her Owl Singing Tonight live session series on her Youtube channel. Lately, Nowlu's is the only music I've been listening to. I can't wait for her future projects!