Yoko Kanno Talks Music, Iconic Soundtracks, and Her First Trip to Lucca Comics & Games

For decades, the name Yoko Kanno has been synonymous with the absolute pinnacle of anime and video game composition. Whether it is the frantic, genre-defying jazz of Cowboy Bebop, the sweeping orchestral wonder of The Vision of Escaflowne, the cerebral electronic soundscapes of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, or memorable contributions to titles like Aquarion EVOL, Our Little Sister, and Terror in Resonance, Kanno’s work has shaped the auditory landscape of modern pop culture.

As she prepares for a landmark appearance at Lucca Comics & Games 2026, Kanno took some time to sit down and discuss her legendary career, her creative process, recent high-profile projects, and her excitement over visiting Italy for the first time in two decades.

A Global Urge to Perform Live

Kanno’s creative momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Reflecting on her recent activities and how she has spent her time over the past year, the celebrated composer pointed to a distinct shift toward live performance and international engagement.

"Since I visited Spain for the first time and performed there at the end of last year, I’ve been wanting to go to many different places and perform live," Kanno shared, expressing a growing eagerness to connect directly with global audiences who have cherished her music for years.

When asked about what currently inspires her musically, Kanno offered an answer as organic and unconventional as one might expect from a sonic visionary: "The cry of a stray cat — fighting over territory, or calling for a mate."

Despite technological advancements in music production over the years, Kanno’s core approach to composition has remained entirely consistent. While many modern artists rely heavily on digital workstations, software plugins, and complex studio setups, Kanno prefers a tactile, traditional method.

"It hasn’t changed at all over the years," she explained regarding her creative process. "I picture the performer and the scene in my mind, write the score by hand, and create a demo by playing it myself. Even if I buy equipment that seems convenient, I rarely end up using it."

Recent Ventures: From Expo 2025 to "Cadence"

Kanno’s recent portfolio highlights her versatility across different mediums and cultural collaborations. Last year, she took on the ambitious task of composing Under the Midnight Rainbow for Expo 2025 in Osaka, a unique showcase that presented fresh logistical and artistic challenges.

"I had wanted to try creating music for a show, so everything — from the first meeting through to the finishing touches, and the adjustments we made while watching how audiences responded — was a very enjoyable experience," Kanno said.

Working alongside a French production team provided a fascinating contrast to her usual workflow in Japan. "Creating something from scratch with the French production team was quite different from the way things are done in Japan. I was able to experiment with new technologies, and because it was outdoors, the piece was affected by the weather and the wind, which was refreshing too."

In addition to large-scale event pieces, Kanno recently revisited one of her most famous creations, breathing new life into Cowboy Bebop with an extended take on the iconic opening theme song, "TANK!", alongside her band, SEATBELTS. Revisiting the classic track was driven as much by personal enjoyment as it was by a desire to celebrate the musicians who have stood by her.

"When I’m playing it live myself, I always find myself wanting to keep dancing for longer, so this is purely an arrangement for myself," she noted. "Many of the members who played with me back then are still performing and going strong, so I also wanted to show them off to everyone."

Most recently, Kanno composed, arranged, and produced the song "Cadence" in collaboration with vocalist Chen Yuting for a project initiated by director Ma Jin. The partnership blossomed from mutual admiration and artistic passion.

"This project came about after director Ma Jin reached out to me. The theme was very unique, and I was moved by the passion of Director Ma and all the staff involved," Kanno said. Praising her collaborator, she added, "Yuting is a frighteningly talented singer, but also a very lovely person. Performing with her was a truly heart-stirring experience. I am grateful for this encounter."

Anticipating Lucca Comics & Games 2026

Kanno’s upcoming appearance at Lucca Comics & Games 2026 marks her first-ever visit to the renowned Italian festival. Though she has fond memories of working in Italy—having visited cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples for recording sessions roughly two decades ago—Lucca represents an entirely new chapter.

"I feel honored to have been invited in this landmark anniversary year. My heart is racing at the thought of how everyone will welcome me. I love Italian food, so I’m really looking forward to it," she said.

Fans attending her special concert dedicated to her career-spanning catalog can expect a deeply personal and carefully curated setlist. For her performance in Milan on November 3rd, Kanno has handpicked pieces designed to resonate deeply with longtime supporters, including surprises she has never played live before.

"I selected them hoping that my fans would enjoy them. Some of them are pieces that even I will be playing for the first time. I’m putting a lot of thought into making it a special experience for everyone who comes," she explained. Rather than relying on a rigid performance structure, Kanno hopes to foster a reciprocal energy with the crowd. "I’d like there to be a world we can build together, while watching how the audience responds, and I want to prepare music that allows for that."

As for her downtime during the massive convention, Kanno prefers to keep her itinerary loose and spontaneous, letting curiosity guide her steps through the historic streets of Lucca. "It depends on my mood, but I plan to wander around, drawn in by whatever smells good. I try not to pack my schedule too tightly, and I like to go with how I feel on the day, in the moment."

Looking beyond the convention and toward the remainder of 2026, Kanno remains focused on exploration and artistic discovery. True to form, her ambitions for the future are straightforward yet expansive: she hopes to continue sharing her music with new corners of the world, keeping alive the spirit of adventure that has defined her extraordinary career.