M O M O's cels
News

Mari Iijima Live 2006!
last modified: Tuesday, April 25, 2006 (11:41:02 PM)
On an otherwise lazy Sunday afternoon in the city of San Francisco, overcast clouds gave way to the warmth of the sun. Gazing into the crowds, I could see lush pink cherry blossoms dancing in the wind, landing on the manmade waterfalls in Japantown's Peace Plaza. Sunday marked the final day of the 100 year anniversary of San Francisco's Cherry Blossom Festival and the faithful day for a live performance I have waited 20 years for.

As Mari performed all of her songs, I recall fondly the first time I heard her voice and the emotions that stirred within from long ago, during the Summer of 1984. In a sold out Hong Kong theatre I watched for the first time a magnificant movie that splendidly blended excellent animation and music into a film called Macross Do You Remember Love. Macross Ai oboeteimasuka is THE animated film that changed my life and first inspired me to explore the creative arts and become an animator.

Sadly, however, for the majority of the audience who watched Mari's performance, she was but an unknown Asian singer. Far be it from the truth, Mari's song writing, creative and performance talents are extraordinary; her involvement on the music scene spans over 19 albums! To me, Mari's music is painfully honest and speaks directly to the heart. I look forward to her soon to be released 20th album later this year! I wish her the absolute best of luck as she continues to promote her own musical creations and to gain widespread recognition as a true artist. And I too will work hard to do likewise and remember the example you set. Again, a heartfelt thanks to Mari for taking the time to visit the Bay Area and sharing her little slice of heaven.