In a remarkable milestone for Japanese singer-songwriter Soushi Sakiyama, Sony Music Records proudly announced on March 4th that his third CD single, “Akari,” has achieved a momentous feat by surpassing 100 million views globally.
This cumulative count encompasses streams, downloads, and YouTube views, solidifying “Akari” as the pinnacle of Sakiyama’s burgeoning career.
Released in Japan on July 19, 2023, “Akari” marked Sakiyama’s third major single under Sony Music Records and quickly made its mark, securing the tenth spot on Oricon’s weekend single charts.
However, the true resonance of the song extended beyond national borders, as it became the inaugural ending theme for the second season of the immensely popular JUJUTSU KAISEN TV anime.
Notably, the song clinched the prestigious “Best Anime Ending Sequence” award at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024, adding another accolade to Sakiyama’s growing list of achievements.
Expressing his gratitude and excitement, Sakiyama shared his reflections on the success of “Akari”: “‘Akari’ has now surpassed 100 million streams and received the honor of winning the Best Ending award at an international anime festival.
This song allowed me to convey a myriad of thoughts and emotions, intricately woven into its creation through the JUJUTSU KAISEN anime. I extend my heartfelt thanks once again to everyone involved in the production of JUJUTSU KAISEN and to those who have embraced my music.”
The accompanying music video for “Akari” has garnered substantial attention, amassing over 25 million views on Sakiyama’s official YouTube channel.
The visual representation of the song serves as a testament to its universal appeal, captivating audiences worldwide with its compelling narrative and artistic expression.
Soushi Sakiyama’s journey with “Akari” not only highlights his artistic prowess but also underscores the symbiotic relationship between music and animation, showcasing the profound impact that collaborations between musicians and anime productions can have on global audiences.
As “Akari” continues to resonate with fans, Sakiyama remains poised to explore new heights in his musical career, leaving an indelible mark on the international music scene.
