We had the privilege of speaking with Japanese singer‑songwriter ZAQ while she was in the Philippines for Cosplay Mania 2026. She will also take the stage at the yearly Japanese Anime Music (JAM) Concert on October 4, sharing the bill with MindaRyn.
ZAQ is celebrated as a dynamic singer, lyricist, composer, and arranger who has influenced contemporary anime soundtracks. She has delivered memorable tracks through her distinctive approach, including “Sparkling Daydream” for the Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! series, “Soranone” for Sound! Euphonium, “Last Proof” from Trinity Seven: Eternal Library & Alchemic Gir, and several pieces for the Classroom of the Elite franchise. This brief interview explores her creative workflow and her experience visiting the Philippines.
This interview has been modestly revised for better readability.
Q: Your sound is strikingly original and crosses many genres. How do you craft songs and compose pieces so they resonate strongly with both anime enthusiasts and general listeners?
ZAQ: I start by immersing myself in the characters’ world and emotions when penning a song. At the same time, I aim to make the track appealing even to listeners who aren’t anime fans, hoping they’ll find it intriguing. I strive to blend my personal style with the unique possibilities of anime music, creating parts that work both within the theme and stand alone as enjoyable music.
Q: Which of your anime songs or concerts hold the most personal meaning for you as an artist?
ZAQ: The track that truly stands out for me is the theme for Animelo Summer Live 2017, “Playing The World.” Crafting a song for the largest anime music festival in Japan, a massive stage shared by countless performers, was an unforgettable opportunity. I was delighted that many artists performed my composition.
(Note: “Playing The World” served as the theme for Anisong Summer Live 2017, the world’s premier anime music festival. The track featured performances by Masayoshi Ooishi (OxT), KISHOW (GRANRODEO), Konomi Suzuki, Minori Chihara, TRUE, DRAMATIC STARS (Idolmaster SideM), Megumi Nakajima, Yoshino Nanjo (fripSide), Wataru Hatano, Saori Hayami, Luna Haruna, Pyxis, Machico, Minami, Suzuko Mimori, and Milky Holmes.)
Q: How did you feel when you learned you’d be performing in the Philippines? Is there a special message you’d like to give to your Filipino fans?
ZAQ: Upon hearing about my Philippine show, I felt tremendous excitement and thought, “At last I can meet the fans in the Philippines!” I’m eager to sing live for everyone who enjoys Japanese anime and my music. Let’s make the performance day unforgettable together!
Our gratitude goes to ZAQ for sharing her time with us! Be sure to follow her on X (Twitter), YouTube, and her official website. We also appreciate Cosplay.ph for organizing this interview. For additional news on upcoming anime and cosplay happenings, check out the Cosplay Mania Facebook page and X (Twitter) accounts.
Featured Image: © Bandai Namco Music Live
Disclaimer: Anime Corner collaborates as a media partner for Cosplay Mania 2026
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