Eri Blossom’s “Breakthrough” is a captivating blend that seamlessly marries the traditional sounds of Japanese music with the contemporary beats of R&B and hip-hop, creating a musical experience that evokes the spirit of artists like Missy Elliott, Ludacris, and Chaka Khan. The song delves deep into the theme of how women are perceived across various societies and cultures, a theme that struck a chord with Eri after witnessing the aftermath of the 2022 Academy Awards incident involving Will Smith, particularly within her Japanese community.

Eri expresses her astonishment, saying, “I came across messages on Twitter from Japanese individuals, including women, who expressed support for Mr. Smith. It was genuinely surprising. Does the perception of women in Japan still revolve around dependence on men and a lack of individual achievement? What’s even more astonishing is that some women seem to embrace this viewpoint. I believe this is a vestige of Japanese traditions where women were historically expected to unquestioningly trust and follow their men, a mindset dating back to the Edo era, some 300 to 400 years ago. These views are out of sync with modern life and urgently need to evolve, which is what inspired me to create this song.”

Based in the vibrant city of New York, Eri Blossom is a versatile artist, equally at home as a singer, rapper, and songwriter. Her music effortlessly blends Japanese and English, delivering a mix of sassy attitude and raw, heartfelt emotion. Her unique sound reflects her multicultural influences, drawing from both Japanese and American cultures, offering listeners a fresh and distinctive perspective.

Growing up in Japan, with parents who held a deep appreciation for American and British culture, she developed a love for iconic figures in R&B and hip-hop, such as Chaka Khan, Whitney Houston, TLC, Tupac, and Janet Jackson. After moving from her hometown to Tokyo to pursue her music studies, Eri had opportunities to perform in nightclubs and even to travel to New York City for classes with Sheila Raye Charles, the daughter of the legendary Ray Charles.

Her journey included engaging in street performances and forming direct connections with audiences, eventually solidifying her decision to make a bold move to New York City. Since her relocation, she has earned a bachelor’s degree in Jazz studies from the City College of New York, further broadening her musical horizons to encompass the world of Jazz. Eri’s musical journey also led to performances at renowned music venues in the city, such as the Village Underground, Ashford and Simpson’s Sugar Bar, Harlem Nights, The Groove, and Negril BK, establishing her presence within the dynamic and diverse music scene of New York.