Mayu Wakisaka A few words with Japanese singer-songwriter Mayu Wakisaka. Some biographical info: A native of Japan?'s second largest city, Osaka, jazz and pop music singer-songwriter Maya Wakisaka has followed an interesting route to her life of music. Originally she studied at law school and during that time passed an audition for a Japanese reality show. She later quit both and moved to L.A. to do her own music. While writing songs and playing with her band, she studied at the L.A. Music Academy in Pasadena. She has played at various festivals in the California area including MAKE MUSIC PASEDENA. Her music is a heart-warming mix of folk, pop and jazz, with well-written English lyrics. She is currently touring and playing with her band in America and Japan. Be sure to check out her songs on her MySpace page and discover this exciting new singer. Leicester Bangs: How did you start out making music? Mayu: I started writing music late… when I was 19 I started writing but since then I love it and it's my life. LB: Who did you grow up listening to and how do they influence what you’re doing now? Mayu: I am influenced greatly by great female singer songwriters such as Carol King, Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morissette, and Jonatha Brooke. LB: Tell us about your latest release. Mayu: My first and self-produced EP, Stars Won’t Fall, came out 3/1/2010 and is available on CD Baby. LB: Do you get out and play your music live, and if so, what can an audience expect at one of your shows? Mayu: I just toured in Japan (Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo). Right now I'm back in L.A. trying to out together a show. My show is a very intimate moment with the audience. LB: What aspects of playing and recording music do you most enjoy? Mayu: It allows me to be ME, myself being honest and pure. It also requires me to do so. LB: Where can people find (and buy) your music? Mayu: CD Baby and MySpace www.cdbaby.com/cd/MayuWakisaka www.myspace.com/mayuwakisaka