Meet Kira Takei | Musician, Songwriter & Dancer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kira Takei and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kira, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Put simply, I’m inspired by everything. By friendships, summer heat, morning light, winter air, rain, my dog, heartbreak, my sister’s laugh, etc… I find life in everything, and I always have.

Having an open heart and mind is important for many reasons, but even more so for creatives. The creative process isn’t linear, or something you can plan out, and neither is life – I think accepting that factor can allow creatives to find the life, joy, connection, and art in every detail of life. I am most inspired by things that simply exist as they are, with no filter or attempt at being something else; it may seem like that’s hard to come by, but if you really practice being present in every moment, more and more beauty begins to unveil itself. Even now, as I write this, I can hear the laughter of two friends talking, the smell of coffee brewing, feel the natural sun coming through the window… how beautiful.

There is always room to be inspired, and opportunity to inspire others – it may sound cheesy, but just living authentically allows others to do the same.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an artist in many fields; musician, songwriter, dancer, makeup artist, etc.. and I love to use all areas of art to support the other. I am working to create music that’s bigger than just songs – I want to create a universe you step into with my music, complete with dance, visual art, and makeup artistry. Right now, I am in the process of writing and recording an album, which will explore the human experience, and all sides of it. As I record for the songs, concepts of videos and visuals pay in my head as well. I am so excited to share this project with the world, and explore all it has to offer!

Getting to the point of recording an album with a producer has been a journey of trusting the process. I am thankful for all the things that needed to happen in order for me to be where I am today. In a literal sense, but also creatively. If I were to have recorded an album when I first started writing music, or even last year, it would be a totally different process. And, with that I know all my future projects will contrast this one. If I were to give any advice to creatives wanting to pursue a project, I would say don’t rush it, or feel like you’re doing it wrong. As I mentioned earlier, life and the creative process are not linear – it’s near impossible to schedule creativity. Trust yourself, and take the best next step.

I want people who listen to my music to know my mission: Connection. My drive behind everything I do is for connection. You know when you hear a song that reminds you of childhood friends? Of a loved one who passes away? From your wedding? That you scream in the car? That helped you heal? That’s the power of music. Creating connections within the listener to themselves and others. The concept of a concert is so emotional to me – people from all walks of life, regardless of any factors come together in a space to sing and celebrate music that all means something different to them. If my art can help anyone create those kids of connections, my mission is complete.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would first take them to Bar Taco in North Hills… they never miss! Such an amazing atmosphere, staff, and food. Then, we’re going to drive to the NCMA (North Carolina Museum of Art) to take in all the incredible work. There’s such a range of inspiring artworks that live there, ranging from styles and periods. Once we finish inside, we’ll take a nice long walk on the many outdoor trails they offer, and enjoy art along the way! Once the moon creeps its way into the sky, we are going downtown to Legends! My favorite LGBTQ+ club in the area. Always has current music, a great atmosphere, and incredible performers! They also bring in famous Drag Queens to perform, and do events. The next day, we’ll need to recover, so we head to Raleigh’s Best Gym, GLOW Fitness for some Sound Healing. Sound healing is my favorite self care activity, and one of the many classes GLOW Fitness offers! Once we finish up, we’re headed to First Watch for some brunch. Always a fun atmosphere, with delicious brunch foods and drinks!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give my shout out to GLOW Fitness! I teach Barre there, and the community, vibes, and empowerment is on another level. Marisa Huffman, the owner, has cultivated a loving, supportive space for people to grow their confidence in a safe space for all. GLOW makes fitness welcoming, inclusive, and fun!

Website: https://kiratakei.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiratakei/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kiratakei7588?si=fJf9xtOwIND6RTFG