Kiyoharu makes Australian debut on “Heavy Rock Breakfast” tour

In 1994, the music realm witnessed the explosive debut of Kiyoharu (清春), the vocal maestro behind the famed bands Kuroyume (黒夢) and Sads.

Undoubtedly, Kiyoharu has made an enduring impact on Japan’s cultural landscape—achieving chart-topping albums, drawing thousands of fans to his shows, and establishing himself as a national trendsetter with his iconic look that graced the glossy covers of prestigious magazines. After his solo debut in 2003, he even had the honor of opening for David Bowie during the “A REALITY” tour in Osaka. Continuing as a solo artist, Kiyoharu’s music is defined by profound lyrics and a captivating stage presence.

Now, he is gearing up for his first-ever performance in Australia, sharing the stage with the influential rock band Boris. Join us as we catch up with this musical pioneer, on the brink of his upcoming “Heavy Rock Breakfast” Australia tour.

Your collaboration with Boris for the “Heavy Rock Breakfast” Australia tour marks your first live appearance in Australia. What excites you the most about debuting your music in Australia?

I’m excited because it’s my first full-scale live performance overseas. I’ve been to the Gold Coast several times on family trips [laughs].

Both Boris and Kiyoharu are prominent figures in Japanese rock with distinct musical legacies and styles. What led to the decision to collaborate on this tour?

It’s from the mutual respect I have with Atsuo, the drummer and vocalist of Boris.

You have been involved in many activities with Kuroyume, Sads, and solo, but which songs will you play on this tour? Will there be any live collaborations with Boris?

I think there will be collaborations. Due to the arrangement of instruments, the songs will be those we’ve been playing on recent domestic tours.

As part of the “Heavy Rock Breakfast” Australia tour, there appears to be a theme of showcasing Japan’s rock history. In what way do you, as “Kiyoharu”, represent that concept?

The impression of Japanese rock, regardless of genre, seems to be that it’s highly business-oriented. However, I think that Boris and I are among the artists who have been making music as part of our expression for many years.

Throughout your career, you’ve significantly influenced the visual kei scene. From your perspective, what makes visual kei music unique, and how does it specifically connect with Japanese culture?

I think it’s similar to Japanese anime, though on a different scale. The essence of visual kei music closely resembles rock music that incorporates melodies and chord progressions of Japanese pop songs that were popular in the 1970s and 1980s.

Many Jrock artists see you as a pioneer and mentor. Are there any current bands you would like to spotlight or introduce to the international audience?

DURAN and Omori Seiko (大森靖子).

Your upcoming album, ETERNAL, is set to release on March 20. Could you tell us more about it, for example, the themes or vibe?

It reflects my current views on life and death at my age.

Will you debut any new songs from ETERNAL on the “Heavy Rock Breakfast” tour?

Just a little.

We watched your recent music video, Saint, released on January 26. The video has a folksy ethnic vibe. Can you share the inspiration behind the composition and lyrics of Saint?

Thank you for watching the music video. I think it’s the chord progressions and melody that are uniquely Japanese. I’m curious to see how it resonates with Australians [laughs].

Please leave a message to all the fans awaiting your performance in Australia, and our readers around the world.

Even in Japan, there are musicians who have been singing and creating for 30 years domestically. I want everyone to enjoy it, regardless of nationality, gender, or age, but when you’re in Japan, there aren’t many opportunities for that. I would like to perform in various countries if possible.

The “Heavy Rock Breakfast” Australia tour kicks off on March 6, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. For ticket and festival information, please check out the chart below. Please note that Kiyoharu will not appear on March 9 at the Golden Plains Festival.

To our friends in Australia getting pumped for the tour, sit tight! We have an interview with heavy music trailblazers Boris coming up soon.