While attending the German anime convention AnimagiC, we sat down with singer‑songwriter VK Blanka. The artist gave two performances in the venue’s Mozart Hall throughout the weekend, plus held signing sessions at the Black Screen Records booth. We had previously spoken with him back in 2024, which marked his inaugural North American tour.
In this interview we discussed VK Blanka’s inspirations, his experiences playing overseas, and his tracks for Black Clover and Fruits Basket.
Portions of this interview have been lightly edited for clarity.
Q: If you could pick any magic from Black Clover, which would you choose? Why?
A: I’m a big fan of Luck, so I’d love to have that speed. Thundering powers work well for me, too.
Q: If you could compose music for an anime about your own life, how would it sound?
A: It would be a blend of rock and a cappella—my life is full of twists, like “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Q: I saw you’re a fan of Queen and Michael Jackson. Have you seen the latest movie?
A: Absolutely! I got an invite to a private screening for everyone involved in the film and got to watch it. After that I was asked to appear on a Japanese TV show that featured a Michael Jackson special.
Q: You’ve been playing instruments since you were a kid, including piano because your sister had one at home. Were you inspired by your family in any other ways?
A: My songs draw from my family, and even from my relationships with friends and girlfriends.
Q: You also play many instruments, which you learned on your own as a self‑taught artist. Was it difficult for you?
A: Yes, in Japanese we call it “gaaryu.” It depends on the artist, but I prefer being a gaaryu because formal lessons enforce a single mold for everyone. Being a gaaryu lets me play and act the way I want. The source of curiosity is our own mind, which I think is better for me.
Q: Do you plan to learn a new instrument?
A: I’m currently practicing drums, which I already know, but I want to sharpen my skills even more. I aim to be ready for stage performances.
Q: Why do you think “Black Rover” [opening 3 of Black Clover] was successful? Were you worried about how it would be received?
A: No, I wasn’t concerned. I’m always confident, so I was excited for the chance.
Q: For “Black Catcher” [opening 10 of Black Clover], I found it interesting that you were the one reaching out to the anime staff to perform it. How much of the melody or lyrics did you have in mind when you contacted them?
A: I didn’t have a set melody or lyrics ready. I just called them and said, “Hey, I hear you need a new opening for episode 10, so pick me,” and they agreed.
Q: Were either of the two openings composed from the perspective of any of the characters?
A: Absolutely! Yami was a key character for me while writing both songs. His line “surpassing your limits here and now” is the big theme of both tracks. But I wish I had Luck’s ability [laughs].
Q: Is there any chance we may see you in Season 2?
A: I hope so, I keep calling them [laughs].
Q: That would be nice, as many fans, including me, started the anime because of the songs. Another one of your anime songs is “Lucky Ending” for Fruits Basket. You mentioned your sister had a lot of shojo manga. How much of the shojo manga world inspired the song?
A: Growing up in my house we had many shojo manga. I read a lot of them, like “Good Morning Call.” That’s why writing the lyrics for “Lucky Ending” felt natural.
Q: I read that you’re also a gamer. Have you ever gotten inspiration from any video game soundtrack or song?
A: Yes! I have a track called “Mirage” inspired by the character of the same name from Apex Legends. Also in my song “Death Dance” I was influenced by the line “I am not just a shadow” from Omen in Valorant. Overall, I pour the essence of gaming into my music everywhere.
Q: Are there any video games you would like to compose music for? Any from your childhood?
A: Yes, every game I play. These days I’m back into Overwatch. I’d also love to write the League of Legends seasonal theme song. From my childhood, all Japanese kids grew up with Nintendo titles like Super Mario, Donkey Kong, and Captain Falcon. We were huge into games.
Q: Regarding your live performances, I have to say that they feel like a party as you have this DJ side. How much of this did you plan for your overseas concerts?
A: I already did this style in Japan, but when I took it overseas the crowds got even more excited, making it feel even more like a party.
Q: Has performing overseas helped you grow as an artist?
A: Absolutely! Every experience abroad, whether it’s Germany, Spain, France, the US, or any other country, makes me tougher and more adaptable at the same time.
Q: Even with the language barrier, overseas fans get excited by the live performances. What would be your advice to Japanese artists who want to perform overseas?
A: Even though there’s a certain degree of “language barrier,” there’s really no barrier in music. If an artist has the courage to go abroad even once and see it for themselves, they’ll experience amazing things. Sometimes Japanese artists overthink these facts or how hard it could be.
Q: In Europe, we’re always happy when a Japanese artist confirms a tour here. Are you working on any project or goal?
A: Yes, I’m juggling many projects these days. I’m a busy guy. I’m wondering when it will end [laughs]. You’ll be surprised by future news, no spoilers [laughs]. Wish me luck!
Q: When you were on your US tour, you released your latest album around the same time. That was impressive. Do you have any current anime or manga you are a fan of?
A: Witch Hat Atelier. I’d love to do the theme song. I also read and watch Baki the Grappler.
Q: Have you read the last chapter of the Black Clover manga?
A: Oh, not yet, please no spoilers [laughs].
Q: Finally, could you share a final message to your fans?
A: Very nice to meet you. I hope you keep listening to my songs and wait for my new band. See you soon!
We want to thank VK Blanka and Black Screen Records for the opportunity to explore the singer’s career and the production process behind some of his popular anime songs.
VK Blanka will also be performing “Kan Peki no Peki,” the ending theme for the upcoming Dragon Ball Super: Beerus anime.
Concert photos by: @cdecasa_s (me)
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