Since debuting on July 28, Hikaru Utada’s newest single, “Gold -Mata Au Hi Made-” has soared to the top of digital music platforms domestically and internationally. Amidst the buzz generated by the recently dropped teaser video, the highly anticipated music video for “Gold -Mata Au Hi Made-” debuted on YouTube.
Filmed this summer in Japan, it is the first attempt for Utada to shoot their music video in Japan and right in the middle of a metropolis. Directed by filmmaker Tomokazu Yamada, the music video unfolds against a nighttime cityscape illuminated by alluring neon lights. This visual masterpiece immerses the audience even deeper into the captivating world of the track.
“Guided by Utada’s music and performance, the shooting was wonderful – it was as if the entire team were meticulously searching for something important, much like on a treasure hunt,” said Tomokazu Yamada, Director. “I hope there is a cherished doorway somewhere in our beloved everyday life.”
With this track serving as its theme song, the film “KINGDOM: The Flame of Destiny” continues to surge, drawing in audiences since its premiere on the same day as the single’s release. Attracting an impressive 1.57 million viewers and accumulating over 2.27 billion yen in box-office earnings after only ten days, the movie has secured the top spot in the weekly attendance ranking for two consecutive weeks.
Release Information
Gold -Mata Au Hi Made-
Released on July 28, 2023
About Hikaru Utada
Japanese singer-songwriter and producer Hikaru Utada is one of the most influential artists in the J-pop and global music scene. Since debuting on 9 December 1998, Utada has achieved many remarkable milestones in their career.
Their first single, “Automatic/time will tell,” sold over two million copies, propelling them to become one of Japan’s top artists at 15. Just months later, their debut full-length First Love shattered domestic CD sales figures, holding the record for best-selling album ever in the country today. Their 2001 album, Distance, further established their status as the 21st century’s first Japanese superstar, breaking numerous records.
Utada’s creations boast a unique blend of pop, R&B, rock, and electronic music elements topped with innovation and timelessness. Beyond their mesmerizing sound, Utada’s songwriting is a hallmark of their career, crafting profoundly introspective and emotionally charged lyrics that resonate with their audience on a profound level.
Utada’s ethereal vocals effortlessly convey vulnerability, strength, and rawness. They are actively involved in music production and maintain creative control over their artistic vision, including directing the recording process.
Throughout their career, Utada has received many awards and accolades, including multiple Japan Gold Disc Awards, Japan Record Awards, and recognition as the Best Asian Artist at the MTV Asia Awards.
Recently, Utada’s artistry reached new heights with the release of the eighth album, BAD MODE, which garnered high domestic and international praise. Multiple music outlets included it on their “Best of 2022” lists, including prominent American outlet Pitchfork.
In 2022, Utada made their festival debut at the globally recognized Coachella Festival in California, joining celebrated label 88rising as part of their exhilarating showcase. Additionally, Netflix debuted the series First Love, inspired by Utada’s eponymous single, in late 2022.
They achieved tremendous success in Japan and across Asia, prompting their older songs to chart on streaming rankings.
With their exceptional talent, innovative sound, introspective lyrics, and emotional vocal registry, Utada continues to leave an indelible mark on contemporary music, inspiring generations of global audiences. Their artistry remains a shining example of the power of art to push boundaries, break fresh ground and reach new milestones.
About “KINGDOM: The Flame of Destiny”
Plot:
War orphan Shin embarks on a journey with the young king, Eisei, to unify China. Suddenly, a large enemy force led by Zhao starts to invade Qin. Eisei assigns the great general Ohki to lead the battle as commander-in-chief to solve this national crisis.
Shin is named Hishintai for his squad and a reckless special mission from Ohki. While Ohki’s return to the battlefield leaves a mystery, the story reveals Eisei’s formerly unknown past. Shin’s destiny moves toward the dream he shared with his lost friend – to become a great general.
Release date: July 28, 2023
Director: Shinsuke Sato
Writers: Tsutomu Kuroiwa & Yasuhisa Hara
Music: Yutaka Yamada
Cast:
Kento Yamazaki, Ryo Yoshizawa, Kanna Hashimoto, Nana Seino, Shinnosuke Mitsushima, Amane Okayama, Takahiro Miura, Anne, Yuki Yamada, Masahiro Takashima, Jun Kaname, Masaya Kato, Mitsuomi Takahashi, Yusuke Hirayama, Ainosuke Kataoka, Koji Yamamoto, Masami Nagasawa, Hiroshi Tamaki, Koichi Sato, Takao Osawa
Based on: “KINGDOM” by Yasuhisa Hara (Serialized in Weekly Young Jump by SHUEISHA)
Credits: ©Yasuhisa Hara/SHUEISHA ©2023 “KINGDOM” Film Partners
