We had the good fortune of connecting with Mimi Star and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mimi, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
One of the most difficult decisions I ever made was leaving Japan to pursue my dream of playing in a band and truly being myself. I was born and raised in a very traditional family, where following a conventional path was expected. But I wanted something different—I wanted freedom, creativity, and a life in music.

Moving to the U.S. was my destination, but it wasn’t an easy choice. I couldn’t fully explain or convince my family, so I just left in 1998 with two suitcases and my bass guitar. It was a leap into the unknown, but it was the decision that shaped my life and career.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
II’m most proud of the fact that I’ve been playing bass professionally for over 15 years, touring across the UK, Europe, Japan, and North America.

One of the most meaningful moments in my career was my Japan tour in 2009 with a U.S. band. It was the first time I could show my family the reality of my dream—something they had once doubted. Since all my family and relatives were against me becoming a musician, proving to them that I had built a career doing what I love was a powerful and emotional moment.

A highlight of that tour was playing a show in Tokyo with a capacity of 5,000 people. Standing on that stage, in my home country, was an unforgettable experience that reinforced everything I had worked for.

The journey to where I am today was anything but easy. When I first moved to the U.S., I didn’t speak any English, and the first five years were incredibly tough—both mentally, financially. I experienced intense culture shock while trying to adapt to a completely different world and pursue my dream in music at the same time. There were many moments when I felt completely broken, and I didn’t have many friends who truly understood my struggles.

What helped me overcome these challenges was playing in band after band. Music became my way of communicating, and through it, I found confidence—not just in my playing, but in my daily life as well. The more I played, the more I grew. I learned to push through difficulties, adapt, and trust in my passion.

Many successful people say, “Believe in yourself,” and I’ve learned that this is absolutely true. When you truly believe in what you love and what you want to become, your path starts to reveal itself. You become creative in finding ways to make your dream happen.

I am just one of millions of immigrants who moved here chasing the American dream. My journey is unique, but my struggles and determination are shared by so many who take the risk to build a new life in pursuit of something greater.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my friends or family visit, I always take them to Griffith Park Observatory for a hike. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy nature while taking in an incredible view of Los Angeles. Also Rancho Palos Verdes is my favotite place for a scenic hike with stunning ocean views.

For food and drinks, I love taking them to Arts District Brewing Company for craft beer and If they’re into live music, we’ll check out Harvard & Stone, where they can experience some local bands and the energy of LA’s music scene.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
After a couple of years, I moved to Los Angeles. When I was struggling to find the right path, my mother told me, “初心を忘れず”—which means, “Never forget the humble and sincere mindset you had when you first started.” Her words reminded me why I came here and what makes me who I am.

I also want to say a big thank you to all the musicians I’ve played with since 1998. Each person’s passion for music is unique, just as everyone’s lifestyle is different. Sometimes I learned from them, sometimes I was influenced by them. Every collaboration has shaped me in some way, and I’m grateful for the experiences and connections music has given me.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mimistar44

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MimiStar4444/

Image Credits
Tony Smith
Jack Lue
Ken Mannet

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