Mana Nagase

Yes! I have to feel energized during the day, so I eat a lot.

What is the best food to have in the morning for breakfast?

Curry rice!

Isn't that a bit heavy for the morning?

It's fine. Dancing and singing takes up a lot of my energy, and I can digest it quickly.

What is your favorite dessert?

It's probably apricot pudding~

What is your favorite drink?

Milk!

So, what is the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

I have to get ready for work properly! But it takes about 30 minutes, so I'm always asleep until the very last minute.

Is there a place where you feel comfortable, even within your hectic life, Mana-san?

I guess my home, because my family is there. Ah, and at the office. I'm so close with everyone it's almost like I'm at home there too.

They both sound like comfortable places. Do you have a favorite place in Hoshimi City, where your office is located?

I like all the local places! I like the park on the hill, and the road where my old high school is, but I think the best spot is the beach.

Oh, is there a reason for that?

Hehe, I have some good memories there.

I guess I shouldn't ask you too much about that. Then, how do you spend your days off?

I used to hang out with my sister often... but these days I sleep a lot and prepare for my next show!

When you go out, what are the essential things to bring, aside from your phone and wallet?

My manager said "You've got no self-awareness; you're an idol, you know!" and got angry at me. Because of that, I'll at least bring a hat and some sunglasses.

So, let's talk a little bit about your school days. How did you spend your free time at school?

I used to chat with my friends and run around with the boys. Oh, and I sung at the school festival once. This is bringing back memories.

I see, that's a rare live performance, isn't it? Did you have fun?

The class were really supportive, so it was a huge success!

How were your grades?

Well I was living a double life as a student and an idol... so you can probably guess what they looked like...

Balancing school and homework is something everyone worries about, isn't it? Next, let's talk about idols. What made you want to become an idol?

I've always liked to sing, but I was scouted at first. After I was approached, I thought hard about whether or not I could really do it, and what idol I wanted to be.

What do you think is the most important aspect of being an idol?

You must stand on stage and sing for your audience, no matter what it takes!

You have a "No one can beat me at this!" attitude, but what are your strengths as an idol, Mana-san?

Hmm, I don't think about it too much. I'm always focusing on how I can put all my energy into my performances.

Then, what are the fans like for you, Mana-san?

They're my source of energy. I'll sing wherever an audience will come see me!

Which do you like better, singing or dancing?

If I had to choose, it would probably be singing.

What do you think you would be doing if you hadn't become an idol?

I guess I would have gone to college like all my friends, but I'm glad I chose to become an idol.

Did you have a dream as a child?

It never occurred to me to become an idol, but I always loved singing, so I guess a part of me had the desire to become one somewhere along the line.

You loved to sing, so maybe you did have the desire. What is your favorite memory from your childhood?

When my younger sister was crying so hard, I sung a popular song that made her stop crying straight away; it made me so happy. I remember that like it was yesterday.

That's a wonderful memory. What is the best thing you've ever done?

I have had hard practice lessons every day, but I think the most important part was before my debut. I was handing out leaflets and singing on the streets with my manager all the time, trying to get the audience to watch my performances. I thought to myself that being an idol was really tough.

But it was good experience. How did you feel when you went on stage for the first time?

The scene in front of me was even better than I had imagined and I'm so glad I worked this hard to get to the place where I am today.

What does a live performance mean to you?

It is a place where we must not disappoint people's expectations. I'm always thinking that we have to make sure everyone in the audience goes home with a smile.

What has been the moment when you felt a close bond with someone, during your activities so far?

When my fans sing along to my songs with me, I feel so connected to them. And also the staff who have supported me along the way.

Do you have any idols who are rivals to you, within your heart?

I try not to dwell on it too much, but there is someone. I think they're so cool and impressive.

Can I ask you what their name is?

I can't tell you that!

Is there someone who you consider to be your best friend?

We only get to meet up occasionally now, but they're a friend from high school. When I'm with them, I don't have to worry and I can just be myself.

What was the happiest moment in your life?

It would be when I had my debut. You only get to experience it once. I was also happy when I sang at a local festival that I had been attending with my sister since we were young.

What has been the most frustrating moment for you?

I overworked myself once to the point I physically injured myself. I remember I couldn't sleep that entire day because I was so frustrated with how I caused trouble for the staff and the customers.

What are you looking forward to the most, right now?

I'm looking forward to having a full day off soon, but I don't know what I'd even do on my day off. But I'll have to decide soon, otherwise I'll end up sleeping. I'll have a think about it later!

You seem to be quite a busy person. Have you had any troubles lately?

I'm a really deep sleeper, but my manager's phone still won't stop ringing in the mornings!

So, let me ask you about your song. What was your impression of "First Step", when you heard it for the first time?

I'm excited to sing it in front of everyone! I asked my manager "So when is the first performance!?"

If you could explain "First Step" in one word, how would you describe it?

Just as it is. The song is a first step for me.

Do you have a favorite lyric from the song?

I'll choose "Look, it's light. Let's move up to the future. Let's run".

What do you like about those lyrics?

The lyrics of the song are positive, so they get me really excited when I sing it.

Do you have a favorite genre of music, Mana-san?

I don't have a particular genre in mind, but I've been watching idol TV shows with my sister for a long time, so I used to sing along to the songs in the shows.

I understand. What would you like to say to yourself, in 10 years time?

I have somehow managed to make my biggest dream come true, haven't I? If I haven't already, good luck! You'll get there one day!".

What is the most important dream you have?

Hehe, I can't tell.

If that dream came true, who would you want to tell first?

I would want to tell everyone who supports me.

What is your ideal image of an idol, Mana-san?

I want to be an idol who can make everyone who comes to see me feel amazing with my singing and dancing, during a performance!

Last question. What does it mean to you, to be an idol?

If there is someone waiting for me, no matter how beaten or hurt I am, I would crawl on stage for them. And I'd sing with my entire heart and soul.

And lastly, a message for your fans.

Thank you so much for the endless support. I want there to be more opportunities to meet you all and share the best moments with you guys! I'll continue to do my best to help you out!