When you think about the countless pop singers out there, both past and present, it’s not hard to understand the truth in her assessment. It is the first music genre that people notice, especially as children, and it’s so widespread in its reach and extensive in its fame that, to an extent, it’s become difficult for many pop artists to stand out, to find their identity amidst other artists in the same genre.
So what makes ena mori and her brand of fun pop music that you can dance to repeatedly different from the rest? To get the answer, let’s get to know the artist herself.
Her Filipino-Japanese Heritage
ena mori is of half-Filipino and half-Japanese descent. She grew up in Japan (where she currently resides with her family as the pandemic rages on) and only moved to the Philippines at the age of 15. She didn’t really think she’d be a singer-songwriter growing up. In fact, she thought she’d be a pianist.
“I was certain that I would be a pianist,” she says. “I started playing classical piano when I was six, and I changed my mind once I was in college.”
Living in two different countries had a pretty profound impact when she made the choice to become a singer-songwriter. “What I used to listen to when I was a child and what I listened to after I moved were totally different so I believe there was a big impact from both heritage in my music,” ena explains. “I think during my transition and figuring out where to fit in as a kid was hard, and during that time, music was my only identity that I held onto. I think that had an impact on a lot of my music that I write.”
Her Decision to Go Solo
For a time, she was part of a band called Dayaw, which she describes as “an ethnic fusion band” she had so much fun sessioning with. But deep down, she’s always had an idea that singing and songwriting were things she’d like to do on her own. Wanting to pursue that, she decided to go solo.“The best part [about being a singer-songwriter] is that I can utilize both lyrics and melodies to send messages to people,” says ena. “Coming from a former instrumentalist, it is very fascinating how songwriting works and seeing people getting inspired by my songs is what keeps me motivated as well.”
Ever since going solo, she’s released a couple of singles as well as her first album last year. But if she had to pick, she’d go for her FALL INLOVE! as her favorite release thus far. “At first, I felt silly to release a relatively happy sounding song during the time of a crisis, and I wasn't planning to release it at all,” she says of her favorite single. “But I followed my calling and decided to release FALL INLOVE! and the response was magical.”
In a time full of uncertainties and one too many bad news, her fun, catchy tunes have provided a lot of respite for those looking for a little bit of joy in the middle of a pandemic. “I got a lot of messages saying that this song makes people dance at home,” ena shares. “To me, that was enough to feel fulfilled with my release.”
Her Next Steps
“It is hard to say when but I hope this year I will be able to show you a glimpse of what I am working on,” she hopes.
As she continues to do music, it’s her dream for her music to be a “turning point” for people. “I am just a human and I don’t wish to change the world for the better (if I can, then that will be awesome),” ena admits. “But rather, I want my music to be a chance for people to see something beautiful within themselves.”
And for those who dream to be singer-songwriters sharing their own creations, she advises them to just work hard and enjoy the experience.
“I think my message for them is to never give up on your creation. All of the creations that you make are priceless, and whether people like them or not, it doesn’t matter because it came out from you,” ena reminds. “Enjoy the process of creating and pursue peace, not success!”
