Studio Ghibli Concert Series Expands with New Performers: Kato Tokiko and Masuda Takahisa Join the Lineup
The highly anticipated second installment of the “Utau Ghibli” (Singing Ghibli) tribute album is set for release on February 25th, accompanied by a special concert series in Tokyo and Osaka in March. The latest artist announcement adds two significant names to the already impressive roster: Kato Tokiko and NEWS member Masuda Takahisa.
Kato Tokiko Returns to the World of Ghibli
Kato Tokiko, celebrating her 60th anniversary as a singer in 2025, has a strong connection to Studio Ghibli’s work. She voiced the admired female character Madame Gina in the 1992 film Porco Rosso and performed both the theme song, “Sakuranbo no Mi wo Miru Koro,” and the ending theme, “Tokidoki Bokura no Hanashi wo.” Her participation promises a nostalgic and powerful performance.
Masuda Takahisa Brings Fresh Energy to the Stage
Masuda Takahisa, known for his vocal talent with NEWS, has a pre-existing relationship with music producer Takebe Satoshi, who is also at the helm of this concert series. Takebe Satoshi arranged Masuda’s song “Oyasuminasai” from his solo album, Kikannshōgakutai. Masuda will perform in both the Tokyo and Osaka concerts.
Complete Lineup and Ticket Information
With these additions, the artist lineups for both the Tokyo and Osaka concerts are now complete. Tickets go on general sale at noon on February 7th. The Tokyo concert will feature performances by Ohara Sakura, Kato Tokiko, Kalafina, GLIM SPANKY, Momoiro Clover Z’s Momoi Shiiori, Naniwa Danshi’s Shimao Tetaro and Oshima Mafu (Penthouse), Masuda Takahisa, and Morizaki Win. The Osaka concert will include Ohara Sakura, Kalafina, GLIM SPANKY, Momoi Shiiori, Shimao Tetaro and Oshima Mafu (Penthouse), Masuda Takahisa, and Morizaki Win.
Artist Quotes:
Kato Tokiko shared, “Singing ‘Sakuranbo no Mi wo Miru Koro’ and ‘Tokidoki Bokura no Hanashi wo’ makes me feel like I’m together with Gina during her lifetime. It’s wonderful to sing! What did 100-year-old Gina and Porco dream of? Please listen while imagining your dreams. People always try to live with hope!”
Masuda Takahisa expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m thrilled to be participating in the ‘Utau Ghibli’ concert! Just thinking about the scenes from the films brings the songs to mind, and these are songs that have been ingrained in me since childhood. I want to enjoy it as an audience member too! Hey, Takebe-san, are there any seats available? (laughs) I’m very happy to be a part of Takebe-san’s entertainment, and I’ll do my best to get everyone hyped up!”
■‘Utau Ghibli’ Concert Series
●Tokyo Performance●
March 13th (Wednesday) Tokyo International Forum Hall A
Open 6:00 PM / Start 7:00 PM
Performers: Ohara Sakura / Kato Tokiko / Kalafina / GLIM SPANKY / Momoi Shiiori (Momoiro Clover Z) / Naniwa Danshi’s Shimao Tetaro & Oshima Mafu (Penthouse) / Masuda Takahisa / Morizaki Win (Artist order is subject to change)
(Inquiries) Kyodo Tokyo 0570-550-799
●Osaka Performance●
March 20th (Wednesday Holiday) Grand Cube Osaka (Osaka Prefectural International Convention Center)
Open 5:00 PM / Start 6:00 PM
Performers: Ohara Sakura / Kalafina / GLIM SPANKY / Momoi Shiiori (Momoiro Clover Z) / Naniwa Danshi’s Shimao Tetaro & Oshima Mafu (Penthouse) / Masuda Takahisa / Morizaki Win (Artist order is subject to change)
(Inquiries) Kyodo Information 0570-200-888
Produce/Music Director: Takebe Satoshi
*Participation of all artists from the album ‘Utau Ghibli 2’ is not guaranteed.
*The artist lineup and order may differ between the Tokyo and Osaka performances.
▼Tickets
Tokyo Performance: SS Seat 14,000 yen / S Seat 11,000 yen / Student Seat 2,500 yen
Osaka Performance: General Seat 13,000 yen / Student Seat 2,500 yen
General Sale (First-Come, First-Served): February 7th (Saturday) 12:00 PM
Reception URL: https://w.pia.jp/t/ghibliwoutau2/
Tokyo Performance Organizer: WOWOW / Kyodo Tokyo / Wise Connection / Victor Entertainment
Osaka Performance Organizer: WOWOW / Liberty Concerts / Wise Connection / Victor Entertainment
Sponsorship/Cooperation: Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd.
Planning/Production: WOWOW / Wise Connection / Halftone Music
Support: TBS Radio / FM802 / FM COCOLO
・Official Website: https://ghibliwoutau-concert.com
・Official X: https://x.com/gu_concert
・Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ghibli_wo_utau_concert
■Studio Ghibli Tribute Album ‘Utau Ghibli 2’
Release Date: February 25th, 2026 (Wednesday)
*A tribute album to Studio Ghibli, fully produced by music producer Takebe Satoshi, following the success of the first installment.
Related Links:
◆‘Utau Ghibli’ Concert Series Official Website
◆Album ‘Utau Ghibli 2’ Official Website
