Crystal Kay

[on her struggles with racism and her cultural identity] I remember going to a summer camp and that sucked. I couldn't make friends and was kind of bullied. It was just things like 'you're black' and 'your hair's strange,' so I wasn't depressed by it or anything, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't bother me. Of course, it can be advantageous to be 'unique' in the music industry, but I never saw it that way. It felt more like people couldn't relate to me. Japan's a largely homogeneous country and I was nothing like the performers they were used to. There were negative comments online; I was called the N-word, and derogatory things were said about my Korean heritage. Being a sensitive soul, it did get to me. As you get older you realize you've got to go your own way, and if people still say [racist] things that's their problem. I feel there's more acceptance now and a growing sense that it's cool to be multi-cultural and multilingual in Japan. Having so many positive role models in various industries has certainly helped. You've now got [mixed-race] actors thriving Hollywood, and sports stars such as [tennis player] Naomi Osaka and [sprinter] Sani Brown doing well. There are also many biracial musicians. It's inspiring for younger generations. Show less «

[on interviewing Janet Jackson and Alicia Keys] I almost peed myself for both [laughs], but Janet was probably more terrifying as she was always a huge idol of mine. I was prepped before; don't ask this or mention that, but in the end, I didn't need to say much because she just talked, which was great. Alicia was also amazing. She's an inspiring and humble person who wants to help people. I'd love to have had more time with her. Show less «

I can speak just a teeny bit of Korean. My reading and writing are perfect, but learning vocabulary is sooo hard! It's no good that I don't do listening or speaking. I'll think about a Korean debut! I'd like to be able to sing in Korean. Show less «

[on self-promotion in the American music industry, June 2018] I didn't have those skills-the hustle mentality-in me. So whenever I would have the chance to meet, I don't know, Gaga's manager or somebody important in the industry, I wouldn't be able to pitch myself. Show less «

[on her duet with Lionel Richie] This was another highlight. It was for the Japanese version of Lionel Richie's Tuskegee album. We recorded ["Endless Love"] separately, but I then flew out to his house in Beverly Hills, where he has his own studio, to make the video. Lionel's such a pro and so good at making you feel relaxed. We keep in contact via WhatsApp and he sends me funny memes and things. I love him. Show less «

I consider myself a Japanese artist because I was born and raised here, but nationality-wise I look, and am, foreign. Show less «

[on her favorite cities] I love traveling, though don't do it enough. I'm particularly interested in the old buildings of Europe. Mallorca was the place I enjoyed most. I had an amazing time there. In Japan, I'm biased, but the number-one city has to be Yokohama. It's big and exciting yet has a laid-back, family-friendly vibe to it, unlike Tokyo. There's a nice mix of Western and Eastern cultures, plus some wonderful places to eat, especially Shatenki in Chinatown. Show less «

[on her musical influences] The music I listen to is varied and depends on my mood. Right now, I'm quite into future bass, people like [Dutch DJ] San Holo. Growing up I loved Beyoncé, Quincy Jones, Janet Jackson, and of course Michael [Jackson]. His music had a significant impact on me. My favorite tune is probably 'Human Nature.' It's soft and embracing with deep lyrics. I just wish I could have met him. Show less «

[on the layers of challenges faced by her mother, June 2018] Growing up as a Korean in Japan, marrying a black man, and raising me on her own...and taking care of me as a manager and as a CEO of our management company back in the day...she had to be a mom, a dad, a manager, a boss-all of that. Show less «

[on performing at the Royal Albert Hall] I was asked to sing 'All Eyes on Me,' Final Fantasy VIII's theme tune, for the game's 25th anniversary album and tour including shows in Japan and London's Royal Albert Hall. To sing such a popular song at one of the world's most iconic venues was incredibly nerve-wracking, and I wasn't sure if the Final Fantasy family would accept my version. They ended up giving me a standing ovation which was one of my career highlights to date. Show less «

I had something that felt like a quarter-life crisis around the age of 25, and then another one three years later. I think most people go through it, especially women. Though I've never considered changing careers, I was questioning where my life was going when everyone else seemed to be on the right path. It's tough, but you find your way and these difficulties can be a catalyst for good music. That said, my songs are usually positive and uplifting. Show less «

[on her mother] Once I started professionally, Mom became my best critic. As a child it was hard to take at times, but I really appreciate it now. You don't get that honest criticism from people in the industry. If something is terrible she'll let me know right away, and that's important to hear. She's such a strong lady who was initially shut out by her strict Korean family after having me. Both she and my dad, who now lives in America, have supported me throughout my career. Show less «

There is still some racial thing on, [but] people are getting used to it. You can see a lot more mixed people on TV, and even (among) models in magazines. Show less «

[on how her exposure to international music at a young age shaped her musical style, June 2018] Music equaled the world to me, as a kid. [...] My dream has always been to be the bridge between the East and the West. Show less «