In a vibrant cultural fusion, Japanese performers Aaayah (Ayako Hirayama) and Ann G (Angella Giustini) have unveiled their collaborative single “Wasabi Wine,” creating a musical bridge between Japanese identity and Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival traditions. The energetic dance composition merges Japanese and English lyrics, with the duo embracing the moniker “Japanese Spice Girls” while characterizing their sound as “hot and spicy like wasabi.
The track represents more than musical entertainment—it serves as a declaration of cultural participation and self-assurance. “This song embodies confidence, joy and cultural pride,” explained Ann G. “It demonstrates that Japanese women are not merely observers of Carnival culture, but genuine participants who feel the rhythm, understand the freedom and celebrate soca in our unique manner.”
Aaayah revealed the project originated from their desire to express femininity in its purest form: “We aimed to showcase our strength and passion for soca while remaining authentic to our Japanese heritage. Wasabi Wine is fun, fearless and unapologetically Japanese.”
The production features Japanese producer Imachi’s hybrid sound engineering, providing authentic fete credibility, with mixing and mastering handled by Trinidadian producer Luke Samerson of Lujoe & The Gifted. The accompanying music video, directed by Hotta Vybz, captures the dynamic energy of dancers Iyona, Nanako and Nathania, supported by fashion direction from Mayu of Fetable and hair/makeup artistry by Haruka Ishida.
This musical initiative reflects broader cultural exchanges between Japan and the Caribbean. Annually growing numbers of Japanese visitors immerse themselves in Trinidad’s Carnival activities—participating in mas bands, performing in steelband competitions, DJing fetes and gracing live stages. Ann G, recognized as Japan’s carnival ambassador, has spent over a decade building cultural connections through performances, event hosting and her Soca Magic platform.
Meanwhile, Aaayah continues establishing her presence as a Tokyo-based dancehall and soca fusion artist, having performed at major events including Expo 2025 Osaka and Japan Soca Weekend. Her collaborations with Jamaican artists and video productions in Kingston have further strengthened musical ties between Japan and the Caribbean region.
The single is now available across all major digital streaming platforms.