 |
|
Kaori Asada

Vocals, Guitar, Piano |
One of the most
touching voices I have had the pleasure of hearing in my life. I started
listening to her songs around the same time as Judy
and Mary. Since hers were not as catchy, I will admit
I failed to quickly acknowledge her remarkable talent. But the more I
listened to her heart-warming voice, the deeper it got under my skin. Now,
I can without a doubt say I value her to her true worth.
It does not
matter if she sings in English or Japanese, the lyrics reach your soul
whether you understand them or not. English-singing from a Japanese artist
is not always a great combination but Bonnie Pink is
fairly bilingual and besides, her small accent gives her even more
charm… if that is even possible; her girl-next-door style already does
so much for me.
Bonnie Pink
is, of course, much more than just a pretty voice with a pretty face and
pretty hair: She is a consummate songwriter and musician to boot! All the
powerful lyrics you hear in her songs are hers. Such poignant words in
such a soft tone are a treat and the jazzy, bass-heavy music that goes
with them only make things better. Bonnie also actively participates in
the music writing and, boy, does she have flair for that, as well. It has
so many coatings of passionate notes and beats it just makes you want to
close your eyes and stop whatever you are doing, which makes it very hard
for me to write this profile.
The mood is, more often than not, that of a
hot bath: The kind of tunes you listen to when you are alone at home one
evening. Not to say they are depressing; even if some express sadness many
of Bonnie’s songs are about moving on and enjoying
life. So, sad, happy or any shade of grey, I always find the suiting piece
for my mood in any of her albums.
You may have unknowingly heard a song of
hers before. Have you ever wondered whom that beautiful voice interpreting
the ending theme, It’s Gonna Rain, in the animated series Rurouni
Kenshin belonged to? Even if this not a personal favourite of mine, it was
a great addition to the show and a great way to reach more fans. Hey, it
worked for me, hasn’t it?
Kaori Asada
always had a knack for music. She was still in college and playing her
guitar here and there when she was approached by recording companies.
Her nickname, Bonnie Pink, came from her then pink hairdo and musical
influence.
Her first album, Blue Jam, did not shatter records but
caught the ear of more influential producer who eventually financed her
second album two years later. This second album, Heaven’s kitchen,
was not only as good as the first but got the recognition it deserved,
making Bonnie Pink one of Japan’s most acclaimed solo artists. Many other
works (she now has eight original albums), showcasing her immense flexibility,
has helped her keep her fanbase, while various collaborations, which recently
included Ryo of The Brilliant Green on the track
Above the Clouds, has made it
expand tenfold.
Bonnie has grownup quite a bit since I first discovered her touch.
Old-school pink seems to be what is best tailored for my taste but I cannot
deny she has written and performed tunes recently that truly deserve praise.
Sampling of the singles off of Golden Tears and Even So, will
quickly determined if established Bonnie Pink is still a-ok in your
book.
|