BABYMETAL's SU-METAL and MOAMETAL chat about their successes and achievements of 2019, while looking ahead to the next stage of the phenomenon
In October BABYMETAL introduced their new album METAL GALAXY to the world, putting the challenges of recent times behind them as they started afresh as a duo. It’s been a big year for the kawaii metal stars…
What was the highlight of your 2019?
SU-METAL: “Our headline show at Brixton Academy, London. We played there before, but I felt that the audience was closer this time, and I felt such great energy there. I enjoyed every single moment of it. I felt that I was home. It was great to be back.”
In what ways has the bond between each of you become stronger?
SU-METAL: “Because we’ve been working together for a long time, we have a special connection that naturally allows us to know what the other is thinking without having to speak. But this year, we made the time to communicate an important part of our process. By doing that we made sure we were on the same page about everything. We support each other and we work together through anything.”
READ THIS: Why BABYMETAL are stronger than ever
How much did you grow as musicians and performers?
MOAMETAL: “I feel that 2019 was the start of a new beginning and transformation for BABYMETAL. We wanted to pursue this new path together with a strong heart. Words cannot describe how thankful we are for each and every fan who continues to believe in us, and it is because of them that we are able to continue as BABYMETAL. So 2019 became a year of appreciation. I absolutely love seeing our fans smiling, and I want to deliver more smiles around the world.”
What did you learn about the world in 2019?
MOAMETAL: “I am constantly eager to know more about the world. The world is so vast and there are a multitude of things I don’t know about. It is such a privilege for us to have the opportunity to travel outside of Japan and do what we love. Regardless of nationality, age or gender, we want to deliver power and happiness through our music and performance, and to share it with everyone around the globe. I am passionate about spreading happiness. I believe that music has the power to connect people and bring joy. There are no borders when it comes to music. It creates endless possibilities.”
What made you feel proud this year?
SU-METAL: “Performing at Glastonbury. It was one of those festivals that I had always admired, and to have the privilege of being there was remarkable. I will never forget the faces of the audience. They were in shock at first, but as the performance carried on, they started to smile and dance with us.”
What was BABYMETAL’s biggest achievement in the past 12 months?
SU-METAL: “The recent U.S. tour. That lasted approximately a month-and-a-half, and it became a very important experience for us. We hadn’t toured that long before. My body was pretty tired, but I had adrenalin that carried over for an entire week after finishing the tour. I now realise that this adrenalin was from all the positive energy our fans gave us throughout the tour. That long touring experience allowed me to recognise a lot of new things about myself, too.”
What do you wish you could have done more of in 2019?
MOAMETAL: “It’s a little personal, but I regret not being able to eat some foods I would have loved to try out! During the U.S. run, I missed out on food and desserts I definitely wanted to try. Because I’m usually in the U.S. for work, it’s difficult to eat whatever I want to, so I think I need to visit again in the future. I really love to eat and I think about food so much. In 2020 I would like to focus on eating!”
BABYMETAL have encountered many famous people in the past. Who stands out as special from the band’s travels in 2019?
MOAMETAL: “I couldn’t choose! Every person I have ever met is special. And I feel that meeting people is a miracle. Each and every person is important to me. This year, I am grateful that I had the opportunity to meet so many people. I hope that I get to continue to meet many more in 2020.”
How excited are you for the upcoming METAL GALAXY Tour?
MOAMETAL: “Extending both my arms as far as I can would not be enough to illustrate the size of my excitement. I can’t wait to see our fans again. Every time we have the chance to visit new places, see new people and to have new experiences, we get so excited. I also look forward to trying out new food. Just thinking about it all makes me so happy.”
READ THIS: 10 moments that made BABYMETAL global superstars
In what ways will the band evolve in 2020?
SU-METAL: “That is something we don’t know. Presently, all we can do is to continue pursuing the path we’ve chosen to take. Although our album METAL GALAXY has now been released, our odyssey is ongoing. I hope to enjoy performing the tracks on our new record, and I hope that the audience enjoys our performance.”
What is BABYMETAL’s message to fans for the new year?
SU-METAL: “Happy New Year! BABYMETAL will be approaching its 10th year since the formation of the group. We have been able to accomplish a lot so far, all thanks to everyone who has supported us throughout these years. We want 2020 be a year of giving back to all of our fans. And next year is also a year where we are able to tour multiple cities in the UK, so I just can’t wait.”
Catch BABYMETAL in the UK later this year – get your tickets now.
BABYMETAL UK tour 2020
February
19 Glasgow Barrowland
20 Cardiff The Great Hall
22 Manchester O2 Apollo
23 London Eventim Apollo Hammersmith
And see the band performing at Download Festival 2020, alongside KISS, Iron Maiden, System Of A Down and more! Get your tickets now.
