Hikaru Utada has officially released “PAPPAPARADISE” feat. Hiroto Komoto, accompanied by a brand-new music video and the PAPPAPARADISE EP. Both the digital EP and its lead visual arrived on June 24, giving fans a fresh take on one of the artist’s latest songs through a collaboration with legendary Japanese rock vocalist Hiroto Komoto.
The release also includes a special conversation video between Hikaru Utada and Komoto, offering fans an in-depth look at the artists’ creative exchange. The collaboration has already generated significant excitement online, with listeners praising the pairing of two influential figures in Japanese music.
New music video brings a fresh story to “PAPPAPARADISE”
The newly released music video was directed by filmmaker Tomokazu Yamada, who also directed the original version of “PAPPAPARADISE.” While the first video featured Hikaru Utada as a taxi driver and unfolded around that setting, the latest version introduces a different narrative centered on Utada and Hiroto Komoto riding together on a motorcycle.
The visual offers a new perspective on the song while maintaining the cinematic style that characterized the original release. By placing both artists at the center of the story, the video emphasizes the collaboration that has become the focus of the new EP.
Following the announcement, fans quickly shared their reactions across social media. Many described the collaboration as nostalgic while expressing excitement about seeing two iconic artists come together, with comments calling it a “dream collaboration” and praising the emotional atmosphere surrounding the project.
EP features three versions of the song
Released digitally on June 24, the PAPPAPARADISE EP contains three tracks. The project opens with “PAPPAPARADISE feat. Hiroto Komoto,” followed by the original version of the song and an instrumental edition.
To coincide with the EP’s release, Hikaru Utada and Hiroto Komoto also premiered a special conversation video on June 24. Running approximately 40 minutes, the discussion gives fans a rare opportunity to hear the two musicians reflect on their collaboration and creative process.
Komoto remains one of Japan’s most influential rock vocalists. He first gained nationwide recognition as the frontman of The Blue Hearts, whose hit song “Linda Linda” became one of the country’s defining rock anthems. Following the band’s disbandment, he performed with The High-Lows before forming The Cro-Magnons in 2006.
The Cro-Magnons are set to celebrate their 20th anniversary on July 23, 2026, marking another milestone in Komoto’s decades-long career. He also recently released the live album Boogiru Kokoro with guitarist Kantaro Uchida under the unit Boogie Ren, while another live release, The Cro-Magnons Tour JAMBO JAPAN 2025–2026, is scheduled to arrive on July 22.
