The year was 1984 when a 16-year-old girl took Japan by storm with her crystal-clear, ethereal voice. By the following year, she had set a record as the youngest artist ever to perform at the legendary Nippon Budokan. She is Momoko Kikuchi—the eternal symbol of "purity" in the hearts of millions.

Fast forward forty years, and this legendary singer remains as elegant as ever. From her early days as a quintessential idol to her later works that exude a sophisticated, urban charm, she has always cherished and protected one core value: thoughtfulness and gentleness. In the spring of 2026, the moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived. Momoko Kikuchi will bring four decades of musical mastery to Taipei for the very first time—a "first meeting" half a lifetime in the making.

1. How do you feel about performing in Taipei for the first time in your 40-year career? What kind of performance do you look forward to bringing to the newly opened Billboard Live TAIPEI?

"This will be my first time singing in Taipei. After so many years, I feel incredibly happy to stand on a brand-new stage in a new place for the first time. In the special atmosphere of Billboard Live TAIPEI, I hope to sing with all my heart to connect with everyone's soul."

2. At 17, you performed at the Budokan and solidified your superstar status. Having conquered countless stages, do you have a personal philosophy for performing? With many new venues opening globally, is there one you are particularly excited about?

"Through internet streaming, people all over the world have discovered my music, which brings me both surprise and joy. On overseas stages, it often starts with a 'nice to meet you,' so I take the stage with the feeling of introducing myself. While enjoying music across borders and languages, I want to actively visit places I’ve never been to before."

3. Having built such a deep legacy over 40 years, what do you consider an essential skill for an artist facing rapidly changing times and musical styles?

"What I cherish most are 'thoughtfulness' and 'gentleness.' I believe that keeping these values in one's heart and continuing to convey them is essential for a long-lasting career in music."

4. There is a rising star in a Taiwanese baseball cheerleading squad with the same name as you. Have you noticed her? What do you do for leisure, and do you follow sports? Would you like to collaborate if given the chance?

"I haven't met her in person, but I was very happy to hear we share the same name. If there is ever an opportunity for us to work together or meet somewhere, I think it would be a wonderful stroke of fate."

5. Have you visited Taiwan before? Are there any foods or sights you’d like to revisit, or has anyone recommended any 'must-try' spots to you?

"This is my first time visiting Taiwan, so I hope to get to know the city little by little. I’d be happy to experience the local atmosphere and food culture. My friends told me that 'everything tastes good in Taiwan, no matter where you eat' (laughs), so I’m really looking forward to that."

6. As a new year begins, have you set any goals for yourself? Regarding music, are there any styles you’d like to challenge but haven't tried yet?

"My goal for this year is 'not to overextend myself, but never to stop.' I want to cherish my own pace while engaging with music with sincerity."

"Not to overextend myself, but never to stop." This is the goal Momoko Kikuchi has set for herself and for Taipei. On February 13th, Billboard Live TAIPEI will host this momentous performance. Whether you are there to relive your youthful memories or to experience the legendary voice rediscovered by the streaming era, these two consecutive shows will weave together a tapestry of pure, blissful surprises.