Unveiling the Path to Stardom: Insights from Music Industry Giants
The “STAR RISE AUDITION podcast,” a collaboration between Styrism and Pony Canyon, has launched, offering aspiring vocalists an unprecedented look into what it takes to create “music that will last for the future.” This illuminating series features a lineup of influential figures from the Japanese music scene, sharing their invaluable perspectives on the evolving industry.
A Deep Dive into Tomorrow’s Sound
The inaugural episodes welcomed two titans of music media: Daisuke Koyanagi, former editor-in-chief of Rockin’On Japan and current head of Interview inc., and Jun Hayashi, editor-in-chief of Spincoaster, a media platform renowned for introducing cutting-edge domestic and international artists. These experts engaged in candid discussions, exploring the ideal singer profile sought in auditions, current trends shaping the music landscape, and the essential qualities for the next generation of artists. The conversations offer a rare glimpse into the minds of those who have shaped and continue to influence popular music.
The podcast, hosted by Styrism CEO Takayuki Morinaka and moderated by music critic Mino Music, delves into the aspirations behind the “STAR RISE AUDITION” and Styrism’s vision for nurturing future talent. Listeners can tune into J-WAVE Podcast’s STAR RISE AUDITION podcast every Friday at 10:00 PM (JST) for new episodes.
You can catch some exciting moments from the discussions:
-
“What are the deep worries singers face today?” on YouTube Shorts: https://youtube.com/shorts/t9PQRYHtFA
-
Daisuke Koyanagi’s thoughts on “How to Create Music That Lasts for the Future” on YouTube Shorts: https://youtube.com/shorts/XSUyiyHS_YE
-
Jun Hayashi’s perspective on “How to Create Music That Lasts for the Future” on YouTube Shorts: https://youtube.com/shorts/9GRtacRIyKA
The “STAR RISE AUDITION”: Your Chance for a Major Debut
Currently accepting applications, the “STAR RISE AUDITION” is a joint venture by Styrism, celebrating its 20th anniversary, and Pony Canyon. This vocalist audition, themed “Creating music that will last for the future,” offers the grand prize winner a major debut opportunity through Pony Canyon, with comprehensive production by Styrism, known for managing and producing artists like Jazztronik and SIRUP.
Applications are open until March 31, 2026, via the official LINE account.
To guide aspiring artists, the official website features a curated playlist showcasing the desired musical direction, emphasizing dance music with strong melodic elements from both domestic and international artists.
The audition also provides original challenge songs composed by Jazztronik and GAL D. These tracks are available in both a 60-second audition version and full-size streaming versions, giving participants a clear benchmark for their submissions.
-
Challenge Song A: “Take Me To The Moon” (Sound Produced by Jazztronik, Singer: MAKI (VIDA Hollywood))
-
60-second audition version: https://youtu.be/W99MRY0JMGo
-
Full-size streaming (released January 30, 2026): https://starrise.lnk.to/takemetothemoon
-
-
Challenge Song B: “Sunlight” (Sound Produced by GAL D, Singer: EINN)
-
60-second audition version: https://youtu.be/_STgdaNJMEk
-
Full-size streaming (released February 6, 2026): https://starrise.lnk.to/sunlight
-
Essential Information for Aspiring Singers
The podcast offers valuable insights into the professional judging criteria and the vision behind “music that will last for the future,” providing crucial hints for potential applicants. Those aiming to become the next big singer should register with the official LINE account to stay updated.
Audition Details:
-
Application Period: January 30, 2026, 12:00 PM – March 31, 2026, 11:59 PM (JST)
-
Eligibility:
-
Males and females aged 18 and above.
-
Not exclusively contracted with any entertainment agency or music label.
-
Capable of conducting future production activities based in Tokyo.
-
Official Links:
-
STAR RISE AUDITION Official Website: https://starrise-auditon.jp/
-
Official LINE (Audition Application): https://lin.ee/7EKAQZ9
-
STAR RISE AUDITION podcast (J-WAVE Podcast): https://j-wave.podcast.sonicbowl.cloud/podcast/2d5aca53-a535-4f30-9f46-0d2816a3c201/
-
Official X: https://x.com/starrise2026
-
Official TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@starrise_audition
-
Official YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@STARRISEAUDITION
-
STAR RISE Artist Image Play List: https://lnk.to/STARRISE
This audition represents a significant opportunity for emerging artists to not only gain exposure but also to learn from the best in the business, potentially shaping the sound of tomorrow’s music.
