Shinko Music Entertainment (Japan) and Little Akihabara (Los Angeles) have unveiled AKIBA MUSIC, a new transpacific music label focused on celebrating Japanese pop culture talent based in North America. Leading the label’s first release is rising idol and YouTuber Hamu Cotton, with her debut single “Hamu Energy ☆” set to launch globally on 3 July 2025 across all major streaming platforms.
Hamu Cotton has amassed over 500,000 followers worldwide across platforms through her dance covers, livestreams, and self-produced live events. Born in Japan and raised in Southern California, her performances draw inspiration from anime culture and 2.5D stage plays – a style she encountered firsthand while attending local events like Anime Expo.
Described as a “Wotaku anthem,” Hamu Energy ☆ aims to resonate with fans immersed in anime and idol fandom. Featuring lyrics written by Hamu herself, the track is composed by Hiroko Yamazaki (Boukyaku Battery) and Rei Kamiya (Love Live! Sunshine!!), while its choreography and vocal performance seek to reflect Hamu’s signature high-energy, fan-forward style. Commenting on their upcoming song:
Creating a place where fans feel safe and seen has always been my priority
I’m thrilled to connect with my Hamustars in this new way.
Visuals for the music video were created by LA-based illustrator Harumishiri, a key member of Hamu’s creative team. A sneak peek of the video will be shown at Anime Expo 2025, ahead of her live performance on the IDOL SUMMER ESCAPE stage at 7:00 PM on 4 July.
