From Bruno Mars & Number_i to The Weeknd: How Live Nation H.I.P.’s Kaori Hayashi Keeps Japan on the Global Touring Map
Categoria: Musica
Billboard Japan interviewed Hayashi in recognition of her selection for the list for the fourth consecutive year.
Por Billboard | 31/08/2026
Billboard ‘s Billboard Global Power Players list recognizes leaders driving the success of the music business outside of the U.S. Kaori Hayashi of Live Nation H.I.P. is the only Japanese woman on the list. Billboard Japan interviewed her in recognition of her selection for the list for the fourth consecutive year, discussing her work bringing some of the world’s biggest artists, including The Weeknd and Bruno Mars – to Japan and her outlook for the country’s live music industry. Since Live Nation acquired H.I.P. in April 2025, what results or outcomes have you seen so far? Japan is the world’s second largest music market, but it is also one of the most relationship driven. Whether you are promoting an international artist or helping a Japanese artist grow overseas, success is built over time through trust, consistency and a deep understanding of fans. For over 40 years, H.I.P. has worked to bring international artists to Japan and create memorable experiences for audiences across the country. Now, as part of Live Nation, we are able to combine the knowledge and networks we have nurtured in the Japanese market with Live Nation’s global network. This really opens up new opportunities for us. There are a lot of plans for overseas artists to perform in Japan in 2026, as well. Lady Gaga performed earlier this year in January and The Weeknd will play in September. In January 2027, Bruno Mars will embark on a history-making dome tour, with 12 shows at 6 domes across the country, including two performances in Sapporo, which will be a first for an overseas artist. It’s rare even for Japanese artists. By becoming Live Nation H.I.P., we’ve deepened our ties with other Live Nation teams around the globe, and now we’re involved in tours and projects from the initial planning stages. Because of that, we can now support artists more effectively and create greater scale where it makes sense. We are also doing a lot more work to help Japanese artists, including Number_i, to connect with international audiences, and this remains a priority for us. Live Nation HIP was involved in a tie up with Don Quijote and Bruno Mars. Do you see your company as more than just a music promoter? Absolutely. Live music remains at the centre of what we do, but artists today are looking for deeper ways to connect with fans, and brands are looking for authentic cultural partnerships. Because of the relationships we have built over many years, we are often well positioned to bring those opportunities together. The Bruno Mars and Don Quixote collaboration is a good example. It was more than just a simple advertisement, it was a partnership made possible because of a strong understanding of the Japanese culture and fans. I think that’s why it resonated with people so much. Going forward, I believe these types of collaborations will become increasingly important as the worlds of entertainment, culture and brands continue to converge. How does Live Nation H.I.