Interview: ZAQ on Composing Anisongs and Visiting the Philippines

We had the honor of chatting with the Japanese singer-songwriter ZAQ during her visit to the Philippines for Cosplay Mania 2026. She is also set to perform at the annual Japanese Anime Music (JAM) Concert on October 4, alongside MindaRyn.

ZAQ is well-known as a powerhouse singer, songwriter, composer, and arranger who has shaped the soundscapes of modern anime. She’s created iconic themes with her unique musical style, such as “Sparkling Daydream” from Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! anime, “Soranone” from Sound! Euphonium, “Last Proof” from Trinity Seven: Eternal Library & Alchemic Gir, and multiple songs in the Classroom of the Elite anime franchise. In this short interview, ZAQ talks about her music process and visit to the Philippines.

Parts of this interview have been lightly edited for clarity.

Q: Your musical style is very unique and genre-defying. How do you approach songwriting, composing, and making sure that your music connects deeply with both anime fans and music listeners?

ZAQ: First of all, I fully consider the world and the feelings of characters then write the songs. But, I also put great importance on getting the other people, who will listen to the song and are not familiar with anime, to say “this song is interesting!”. I take into my mind to write music where I put my own style on the expressions that are possible because it’s an anime song and the parts that can be genuinely enjoyed as music.

Q: Which of your anisongs or live performances resonate with you the most as an artist?

ZAQ: What particularly left a lasting impression on me was making the Animelo Summer Live 2017’s theme song: “Playing The World.” Making the song for Japanese anime’s biggest festival and the big stage where lots of artists gather was a valuable experience. I was also very happy that a lot of artists were singing my song.

(Note: “Playing The World” was the theme song for Anisong Summer Live 2017, the largest anime music festival in the world. It was performed by Masayoshi Ooishi (OxT), KISHOW (GRANRODEO), Konomi Suzuki, Minori Chihara, TRUE, DRAMATIC STARS (Idolmaster SideM), Megumi Nakajima, Yoshino Nanjo (fripSide), Wataru Hatano, Saori Hayami, Luna Haruna, Pyxis, Machico, Minami, Suzuko Mimori, and Milky Holmes.)

Q: What was your reaction when you found out that you were going to perform in the Philippines? Do you have a message that you want to share with your Filipino fans?

ZAQ: When I heard that I could perform in the Philippines, I was very happy and  I thought “Finally, I can meet everyone in the Philippines!”. I look forward to being able to sing in person for everyone who loves Japanese anime and my music. Let’s enjoy the performance day together to the fullest!

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We’d like to thank ZAQ for taking the time to speak to us! Follow her on X (Twitter), YouTube, and her official website. Thank you as well to Cosplay.ph for arranging this interview. Visit the Cosplay Mania Facebook page and X (Twitter) for more updates on their future anime and cosplay events.

Feature Image: © Bandai Namco Music Live
Disclaimer: Anime Corner is a media partner for Cosplay Mania 2026