Inspiring Japanese idol STEFFI talks of her time thus far as an idol, music releases, playing live, and all there is to do and know about being an "idol", find all she had to talk about below!
1. Where did you get the idea for your idol name Steffi, is it your everyday name or a stage name?
My full name is Stephanie, but when I joined SCK GIRLS I was worried it would be too long and hard to say in Japanese, so I decided to use Steffi. I use both in daily life these days. My current project name “Steff Airy” – the name I release on Spotify under – was inspired by various pop culture favorites like Legend of Zelda, Peter Pan, and Pokemon.
2. Why did you want to be and play live as an idol?
I’ve always loved musical theatre, but when I moved to Japan, the chances to perform were limited. Performing with SCK GIRLS was an opportunity to get back on stage and I ended up really falling in love with the idol world.
3. To those who are not familiar with idols, can you describe it for us?
Idols are performers most known for high energy acts that include singing, dancing, audience interaction, and elaborate costumes. They can be anything from cute to cool, or solo artists to large groups.
4. Where are you based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local acts or bands you could recommend?
I’m currently based out of Tokyo for my solo work and return monthly to Miyagi for group performances with SCK GIRLS. The Tokyo scene has so many idols performing and the fans have such wonderful energy. Miyagi holds its own with livehouses and idol events, but the opportunity to perform at local festivals and events that foster community is an absolute blessing. In Tokyo, I highly recommend Crazy Fantasy and Miniwacha.
5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?
Due to my musical theatre history, strong emotions inspire me to write music. It is said that a song happens in a show when the emotions a character is feeling are too big to only put into words and so they must be sung. That has always been how I have expressed myself. I write to deal with whatever I’m feeling. The base of a song will often come to me when I’m feeling sad or frustrated, then as I spend time with the lyrics, I work my way to a happy ending, something that can inspire people to keep fighting. It’s a really cathartic experience.
6. Do you write your own songs? What are your songs about?
I write the top line and lyrics of most of my songs, then send them to composers to arrange and add the instrumentals. My songs are often about overcoming a strong feeling and finding healing within the music. My goal is to write songs that give people the power to smile again.
7. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?
Over the course of my Steff Airy project, I have released 3 originals: “Sweet Dream Recipe,” “Focus,” and “My Lane,” as well as a few covers. (“Moonlight Densetsu,” “Dear Maria, Count Me In”). Additionally, I wrote a song for SCK GIRLS called “Merry-Go-Round” that has not been released online yet.
8. Besides your new song "My Lane", anymore newer music in the works?
I’m working on the online release of a collaboration song with another wonderful idol, Marmalade, called “Digital Bridge,” written by the fabulous producer another Shiro. I also have at least two new originals and three covers in the works. In addition, I’m planning to release Japanese versions of all my music.
9. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?
At the moment I perform mainly solo in Tokyo with once-a-month trips to Miyagi to perform with SCK GIRLS. I would love to perform at a convention overseas, but no official plans to report just yet. My next big event is on July 8th, 2026, at the Ueno Waterside Music Hall!
10. Do you have a "call and response" at your live performances, if you do, what is it and can you discuss what exactly a "call and a response" is to those not in the know?
A “call and response” is a set phrase an idol will say that fans can react to with a set answer. It often happens when an idol introduces herself. At the moment mine is simple. In Japanese I say “I’m the idol here to heal your heart with the power of music. I’m Steffi! Please call me Steffi. Ready, go!” Then the fans reply by calling “Steffi!”
11. What plans do you have for this year that is 2026?
For now, I’m working hard on preparing for my performance on July 8th! It's my biggest solo stage yet so I want to give everyone a performance to remember. After that, I plan to release more originals and covers and look into performing at conventions overseas this year.
12. Where can we listen to your music, buy merch, and find you online?
I am active on most forms of social media @steffairy_flying. Music videos are available on YouTube and songs are available on Spotify, iTunes, and more. At the moment, my merch can only be purchased in person at live events, but my online store is in the works, so I hope you’ll stay tuned! In the meantime, many of my shows are streamed with a 2-week archive, so anyone who can’t make it in person can still support me that way.
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