Hikaru Utada is currently on her highly anticipated tour SCIENCE FICTION TOUR 2024, her first set of concerts since 2018. The tour commenced with a dazzling performance in Fukuoka and has since traveled to five locations, including Aichi, Saitama, Miyagi, and Tokyo. The buzz on social media reflects the excitement surrounding the live performances, showcasing an enthusiastic response from fans.
On 10 August, Utada made history with their first solo overseas concert in Asia, held at Taipei Arena. The event was met with excitement, with long lines for photo opportunities and merchandise. Utada, clad in a striking white outfit, captivated 10,000 fans with their stage presence.
During the concert, Utada performed a dynamic setlist featuring 22 songs, including 'traveling (Re-recording)' and new track 'Electricity'. Utada wore three outfits during the performance, the second being a vibrant ensemble made using Brewed Protein fibers courtesy of the biotech company Spiber.
At the beginning of the show, Utada greeted the audience in Chinese, saying, “How are you, everyone? Hello, I’m Hikaru Utada. I’m so happy to be in Taipei. Thank you all for coming today! Let’s have a great time together.” Utada then performed the re-recorded version of her popular worldwide hit 'Hikari'.
Following a lively rendition of the 2024 update of 'traveling'. which had the audience on their feet, Utada spoke to the fans again, reminding them, “It’s hot, so don’t forget to stay hydrated. Please enjoy the next song.” Utada then performed 'First Love' to a rapturous ovation.
In the middle of the concert, Utada said, “This is my first time performing in a country where I don’t know the language, so I was worried, but I can really feel your emotions, and it makes me so happy. Thank you.” She added, “This tour is to celebrate my 25th anniversary, but I want to celebrate all of our 25 years together. I’ve always felt your support, even though I’ve never been here before. I knew you were listening to my new songs, and I always wanted to come here, so I’m really happy to be here today.' Utada then sang 'Hanataba o Kimi ni', serving as a token of gratitude to their fans.
Before the encore, Utada asked the audience, “Before I head back home, what should I eat?” After receiving responses like "tapioca" and "xiao long bao" from the fans, Utada playfully added, “Isn’t everyone hungry? Are you okay? Right now, I’m already full with everyone’s love!”
Utada then then mixed Chinese and Japanese by saying, “The next song will be the last one, but I want to keep singing and stay here with you longer. I really, truly want to say it again and again—thank you for coming today. Let’s sing together!” Utada closed with 'Kimi ni Muchuu', bringing the concert to a close amidst thunderous applause.
Following the performance, the playlist ENCORE Hikaru Utada featuring the songs appearing on the tour’s setlist, was made available on streaming platforms.
The HIKARU UTADA SCIENCE FICTION TOUR 2024 will continue to dazzle fans with upcoming shows, including her first performances in Hong Kong on 17 and 18 August, and Osaka on 27 and 28 August, leading up to the grand finale at K Arena in Kanagawa on 1 September.
For more information on the tour click here.
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