Behind the scenes of "Isn't cute enough?"
In recent years, when I'm at home, I play hit songs from 1970 to 2007 from morning until night, constantly learning about music. I'm sure there's a reason why hit songs are hits. I think that because I'm constantly exposed to such songs, the songs I write end up being more pop and catchy.
I had been acquainted with KAWAII LAB. producer Misa Kimura since before the formation of FRUITS ZIPPER, and I received an offer to compose music for CUTIE STREET before its formation.
The request was for a catchy song that would attract attention. As soon as we received the request, we started working on the song with Watanabe Toshihiko. Among the demos we had at that time were "Isn't it enough to just be cute?" and a prototype of SWEET STEADY's "Pajama Party!"
After that, the members of CUTIE STREET were decided and we started polishing the song. Watanabe's first demo was high quality, elegant, and didn't even have any dialogue. We added punch to the song with the arrangement, dialogue, and words like Ono no Komachi and Cleopatra, and moved the phrase "vertical, horizontal, diagonal" to a more prominent part. We packed it with elements that would create a buzz.
I think it was a good thing that we were able to create characters and messages at the same time as the group was being formed. Incidentally, the catchphrase "Ka-chi-n!" and the line "Isn't it enough to just be cute?" were inspired by the shout "Shinnosuke!" from the song "I'm Popular" that was playing at the time.
Three memorable songs by Hirotaka Hayakawa
The 22nd single, released in 2018. Composed by Toshihiko Watanabe, with arrangement by Hayakawa and Watanabe. "The lyrics and melody, of course, but also the strings, rhythm, and vocal arrangement. Everything about it is so emotional and I love it."
A single released in 2022. "This song is composed from the words of Chinzei Suzuka. The song title includes the initials of the members, and the 'fee' part includes the names of Every Fan, Every Staff, and Manaka Mana (Manafi)."
The first single CD was released in 2024. "I made the demo for this at the same time as Kyusuto's "Kawadame." It took a while to get it out, but I'm glad it became a song that fans love."
