Virtual yet phenomenal

SHE’S not even human but with 100,000 songs under her belt, Japanese virtual singer Hatsune Miku has millions of fans from all over the world. Besides holding sold-out concerts of her own, she also has opened for Lady Gaga’s world tour and appeared in Pharrell Williams’ music video!

Malaysian fans of this global sensation now have a chance to see her perform “live” in Kuala Lumpur in a first-of-its-kind-inMalaysia concert. Astro in partnership with Hatsune Miku developer Crypton Future Media is bringing the Hatsune Miku Expo 2017 In Malaysia to Axiata Arena Bukit Jalil on Dec 16.

“Three years ago, Hatsune Miku Expo kicked off in Southeast Asia with a historic live performance and exhibition in Jakarta that set the foundations of this fan-centred event, celebrating collaborative creativity,” said Kimitaka Nishio, chief executive officer of Crypton Future Media at the concert’s Press conference.

SOLE CONCERT

“This year, after 48 performances in seven countries around the world, we are happy to be back in the region for Hatsune Miku Expo 2017 In Malaysia. We know Miku already has a strong fan base in the country but we also hope to introduce her and the culture around her to many more people.”

Astro chief operating officer Henry Tan said: “It’s the only performance in Southeast Asia this year so do not miss this experience. It’s something that you can’t watch on YouTube to enjoy. You have to be there.”

For those who don’t know Miku, here’s the 411. “Born” on Aug 31, 2007, she is 16 years old, has teal-coloured hair. She has a unique voice and is full of energy.

Her name is the combination of the Japanese words Hatsu (First), Ne (Sound) and Miku (Future). But that’s only the exterior.

She is actually a synthesised character (called a vocaloid). Not only is her image on stage generated by computer but her singing is completely synthesised too.

“Crypton had created a software that can sing the melodies and lyrics that you put into it,” said Nishio. This is how Miku’s repertoire is entirely a widespread fan effort, where individual songwriters use the software to orchestrate songs for her - in different languages.

EXTRA FUN

For the Hatsune Miku Expo 2017 Live In Malaysia, Miku will be accompanied by a live band and will be singing her classic hits

The Hatsune Miku Expo will be held on Dec 16.

such as The World Is Mine, Tell Your World and Rollin’ Girl.

Also expect to hear new songs as well as a special performance in Bahasa Malaysia!

“Since we have received encouraging feedback from fans, we realised the need to create a lot of onground events to reward them. So you can expect to see lots of things happening outside the arena,” said Ng Yubin, representative of eGG Network, concert co-organiser.

“We’re bringing in Japanese deejays and will set up some Xbox 360 Kinect and Crypton games; cosplayers can share their creativity, and fans can showcase their Hatsune Miku merchandise.

“In addition, we’ll be organising a

Hatsune Miku Expo 2017 In Malaysia T-shirt designing contest. The winning design will be printed on the official concert T-shirts.” Hatsune Miku Expo 2017 In Malaysia’s opening acts are Malaysian actor, comedian and singer Zizan Razak and Thai-British singer Chaleeda Gilbert.

Tickets will be available at www. myticket.asia starting Oct 8 at 10am. The prices are RM439 (VIP Rockzone free standing), RM339 (Rockzone free standing), RM269 (Cat 1 free seating) and RM169 (Cat 2 free seating).

Find out more on mikuexpo.com and fb.com/mikuexpo2017mys.