Loyola Greyhound

Issue date: 2/12/08 Section: Arts & Society

Media Credit: Koji Andrew "Koji"Shiraki is based in Pennsylvania.

College students constantly search for ways to express themselves. Music oftentimes seems to be a common outlet for this. Andrew Shiraki does just that. Onstage, he goes by the name Koji. The positive way he portrays for himself onstage keeps his audiences interested. His positive lyrics speak to all kinds of people, and keep them coming for more. He took some time out of his busy schedule to let me interview him.
Meghan Hole: How did you get started in music?
Andrew Koji Shiraki: I got started in music like most people--through my family and school. My parents' taste in music influenced me quite a bit. I think you can hear oldies and Hawaiian influences in some of my work today.

MH: When did you first start performing?
AKS: I first started performing in bands when I was 12 or 13 years old.

MH: What are your inspirations for songs?
AKS: Inspiration; for me I am very interested in different relationships. I like exploring how I relate to the world, all the places and its people. I think wanting to uplift myself and the people around has something to do with it too.

MH: What are your favorite kinds of venues to play at?
AKS: My favorite venues are venues run and attended by good people!

MH: Where is the name Koji from (as your first name is Andrew)?
AKS: Koji is my middle name!

MH: When did you start doing shows at multiple schools?
AKS: I started playing universities and schools a couple years back. I really enjoy playing at Millersville and Penn State Universities and some schools in New England.

MH: What is it like performing abroad?
AKS: Performing abroad is very interesting and exciting! It's a great adventure and I love seeing new cultures and communities. The main reason I perform professionally is that music enables me to travel and to have these special experiences where I can relate and participate in different communities.

MH: What is your most memorable experience from on the road?
AKS: There's so much that I think of when trying to answer this question! I wish I had a highlight reel for you, hahaha... (explosions, car accidents, near accidents, good food, bad food. I love food. The people! The music!)

MH: I've seen you perform a few times, and you really like audience participation. Why is that?

Continued...

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