Mina Okabe is a 22 year old songwriter who has become one of the most credible new artists out of Denmark. The Danish-Japanese songbird is acclaimed for her diary-like bedroom pop with sounds of jazz and soul that are destined to take you away to azure blue coasts and eternal, warm nights under the stars.
What first got you into music? And what inspires you?
Music has always been a huge part of my life. I have always sung and played an instrument. I started with piano but switched to guitar when I was about 12. Lyrically, it is mostly my own personal experiences and thoughts that inspire my music, but I also get inspiration from constantly listening to new music and finding new artists and songs.
If we were to look at the artists you are listening to, who would be on your playlist?
I have been listening to Orion Sun a lot lately. I love her sound and the way she writes her lyrics. I have also been listening to Cleo Sol and Snoh Alegra.
Your song ‘Every Second’ was a massive hit on Instagram Reels. What do you think sets your music apart and makes people listen?
I think it is hard to say what exactly it is that makes people listen to my music and what sets it apart, but I often receive messages from people saying that they can relate to my songs. When I listen to music, I find that I am most drawn to songs that feel personal to the artist. My songs are honest and about personal experiences that many can relate to – and I guess that is why so many people have been listening.
What would you be doing right now if it weren’t for your music career?
I have no idea. Music has always been my biggest and only interest. I just hope that I continue to make music people want to listen to!
What was the last TV series you watched?
Friends. I love that show! It always puts me in a good and relaxed mood.
You are a new addition to a crayon box. What color would you be and why?
I think I would be orange. I hope I bring warm energy to social situations.
Which fictional character do you wish was real?
The flying carpet from Aladdin. Would be fun 🙂
Do you have any lucky items, objects, or traditions?
I do! But I am very private about them.
Do you have any superstitions?
I have a lot of superstitions, but I like to keep them to myself. I guess that is an example of one 🙂
Congrats on your new EP, ‘Spinning Around’!! Now that it’s out, what are your musical plans or dreams for the next 12 months?
Thank you! I have always dreamt of traveling with my music, playing concerts abroad and meeting people who listen to my music. I already have some concerts planned in Asia, but hope for even more! I am really looking forward to releasing more music and hope people will continue to listen.
‘Spinning Around’ includes three previously released singles from 2022 –‘Take It Further’, ‘Waiting Is A Waste’ and ‘Rain’ –and three new songs. On the lead single, ‘Talk to Me’, Mina Okabe finds confidence in an irresistible bossa nova groove.“’
Talk to Me’ is about the frustrating feeling that comes when someone you’re interested in is not opening up and is hard to read. I like how it stands out among my other songs –both lyrically and with the playful production –but most of all, because it gives me a feeling of confidence.”