Japanese singer Yuko Ando returns to Taiwan for first concert, seeking old mentors and local flavors

Japanese singer-songwriter Yuko Ando, acclaimed for her powerful vocals and her contribution to the "Attack on Titan: The Final Season" soundtrack with the song "Shock," is preparing for her debut performance in Taipei on August 8. This concert marks a significant return to Taiwan for the artist, who lived in the country during her youth and participated in the popular variety show "Super Sunday." Ando expressed her excitement, describing the upcoming performance as fulfilling a long-held promise.

"Shock," released during the pandemic, resonated globally and has garnered tens of millions of streams on Spotify. Ando recalled the challenging period of its release, marked by widespread cancellations of overseas performances, which significantly impacted her morale. Now, she eagerly anticipates bringing this song, which provided solace to many during difficult times, to a Taipei audience, aiming for a direct and meaningful connection through her music.

Reflecting on her time in Taiwan in the early 2000s, Ando shared fond memories of living with other aspiring young artists. She recalled the camaraderie, occasional disagreements, and late-night chats that defined their shared experience. A particularly touching moment was receiving a jade necklace from a staff member before her departure, accompanied by a fortune teller's prediction that she would return to Taiwan – a prophecy that has now come true over two decades later.

During this visit, Ando is eager to reunite with former mentors, including "Super Sunday" producer Zuo Hongshun and Jeanne Chao. She fondly remembers Zuo Hongshun's kindness, recalling a time he met her in Tokyo and took her to a KISS concert. Beyond reconnecting with old friends, Ando plans to bring back Taiwanese delicacies like mullet roe and is keen to savor xiaolongbao. She has also invited fans to recommend hidden culinary gems, hoping to immerse herself once again in Taiwan's renowned hospitality and vibrant food scene.

In addition to her music career, Yuko Ando has expanded her creative endeavors into painting, acting, and literature, recently releasing her first short story collection, "Hitotsuchou Dai," adding "novelist" to her multifaceted identity.