Kumi Koda Reflects on 25th Anniversary Reveals Post-Live Phone Call and Maintains Sexy-Cool Image

Kumi Koda established her style with the theme song of “Cutie Honey”.

Singer Kumi Koda (42) marked her 25th anniversary in the industry and appeared at the “KODA KUMI 25th Anniversary Documentary Film walk Screening” event in Tokyo on December 6.

“Walk” is a documentary film that chronicles Koda’s journey of overcoming struggles throughout her career, and it was screened for a limited two-day release. Upon hearing the cheers from her fans, Koda wiped away tears, saying, “I can’t stop crying,” while smiling brightly.

Koda won the semi-grand prize in the 1999 “avex dream 2000” audition organized by Avex, which led to an exclusive contract with the company. However, due to the company’s policy of not allowing her to appear on television, she spent years building her career by performing at clubs and other venues. In 2004, her 11th single “LOVE & HONEY” entered the top 10, and its cover of the “Cutie Honey” theme song became a massive hit.

Her unique sexy-cool style was solidified, and between 2005 and 2006, she achieved the remarkable feat of releasing 12 consecutive singles, with three of them simultaneously charting in the top 10— a first for a female artist. Her album “BEST second session” featuring 12 tracks sold 1.8 million copies. (Music magazine editor)

“FRIDAY” began following Koda’s rise to popularity around 2006, during her “sexy-cool” phase. The magazine covered her bold outfits at the “Best Jeanist 2006” award ceremony and her eye-catching blue dress, which outshone even the Blue Man. One of the most memorable moments reported was Koda’s appearance at an after-party following a live performance during the 2008 Avex shareholder meeting. This was featured in the July 11, 2008 issue, and we look back on that article.