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Nana Kitade
Nana Kitade
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Nana Kitade (北出 菜奈, Kitade Nana; born May 2, 1987) is a Japanese singer-songwriter and musician. In addition to being the lead singer of the rock band The Teenage Kissers, she has success as a solo artist, model, actress, and fashion designer. Kitade is particularly known for her songs appearing in various anime, TV shows, doramas and movie opening and endings. Kitade was featured on the cover of the Gothic & Lolita Bible, as well as featured in Neo and Kera magazines. She has toured Asia, Europe, and North America.

Life and career

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1987–2001: early life

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As a child, Kitade wanted to be a singer and/or an anime artist. She started learning the piano at the age of three and wrote her own lyrics at twelve. In junior high school, she became a fan of Ringo Shiina and learned to play the guitar, traveling frequently to Tokyo for singing lessons.[citation needed]

2002–05: debut and 18: Eighteen

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In February 2002 Kitade passed a Sony Music Japan audition and was chosen as the Sapporo area representative and was given the opportunity to debut as a singer.

In March 2003, the demo which she submitted caught the attention of Susumu Nishikawa, session guitarist and Ringo Shina's sideman at the time of the debut. She signed a deal with SME Records, a subgroup of Sony Music Japan. On October 29, 2003, she debuted with the single "Kesenai Tsumi", which was used as the first ending theme song of the popular anime Fullmetal Alchemist. The single reached number 14 on the Oricon charts and stayed on the charts for twenty-two weeks. With the success of "Kesenai Tsumi", Kitade then released "Kesenai Tsumi: Raw 'Breath' Track", a slower version of the song, which charted on the Oricon charts and peaked at number 87. On November 1, Kitade appeared on the NHK television program Pop-jam.

Her second single, "Utareru Ame", was released February 4, 2004, and peaked at No. 55 on the Oricon singles chart. Her third single was released July 22, called "Hold Heart", which peaked at No. 95 on the Oricon chart. From July 25 to August 15 Kitade had her first tour, touring 7 cities, performing 8 shows. Starting September 30, the song "Pureness" was featured as the ending theme of the anime Beet the Vandel Buster. "Pureness" was released as a single on November 17, and peaked at No. 60 on the Oricon chart.

On June 1, 2005, Kitade's fifth single, "Kiss or Kiss" was released. The song was used as the theme song of the Nippon Television drama Anego, and peaked at No. 11 on the Oricon singles chart, becoming Kitade's highest charting single to date. Her sixth single, "Kanashimi no Kizu", was released July 20 and peaked at No. 26 on the Oricon chart. The song was used as the theme song of PS2 game Fullmetal Alchemist 3: Kami wo Tsugu Shoujo. On August 1 Kitade participated in the 2005 Hong Kong Comic Festival as the first ever Japanese artist to appear.

On August 24, 2005, Kitade's debut album, 18: Eighteen, was released. The album ranked number 16 on the Oricon albums chart. The song "Alice" from the album was used as the image song for the movie Shinku. On August 28, she participated in Bokura no Ongaku Live on the Odaiba Bouken'ou specially installed stage. A part of this was shown to the public on Bokura no Ongaku 2. On September 7, she held her first one-man live show, which was titled Nana Kitade Live Showcase '18: Eighteen', in Shibuya-Ax. On December 7, she released a DVD called Nana Kitade: 18Movies. The DVD consists of all her music videos up until this point, clips from her one-man live show, commercials for her releases, and a studio recording of "Kesenai Tsumi".

Nana Kitade at Amoeba Music San Francisco, August 2, 2006

2006: Slave of Kiss, Cutie Bunny, and I Scream

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On February 8, 2006, Kitade released her first EP, Slave of Kiss, which peaked at No. 79 on the Oricon chart. The EP included a cover of the Princess Princess song, "Kiss". The cover also appeared on the Princess Princess tribute album, 14 Princess: Princess Princess Children. Beginning on April 27, 2006, Kitade released 13 songs in a row. These were available exclusively via cell phone downloads, each for 100 yen. Each song was released on the 7th, 17th, or 27th of each month until August 27, 2006. Most of the songs were covers of 1980s hit songs, but a few tracks were new. On June 6 American anime convention Otakon announced that Kitade would be a musical guest for Otakon 2006 in August. 18: Eighteen was released in the United States through Tofu Records on July 11, 2006. On July 12 Kitade released her second EP, Cutie Bunny, which contained six of the released cell phone songs. On August 2, she made an in-store performance at San Francisco's Virgin Megastore and gave her first US radio interview with EigoMANGA's radio program, Shibuya Airwaves. Then, on August 4, she made her first East Coast performance at the Ram's Head Live at Otakon.

On October 4, 2006, Kitade released her eighth single,"Kibou no Kakera", which was used as the opening theme song for the anime Demashita! Powerpuff Girls Z. The single peaked at No. 64 on the Oricon singles chart. On December 6, she released her second studio album, I Scream, which featured a cover of Green Day's "Basket Case".

Nana Kitade in the 5th Japan Expo convention in Paris, France

2007–09: Berry Berry Singles and Bondage

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On July 3, 2007, the song "Antoinette Blue" began being used as the fourth ending theme for the anime D.Gray-man On July 7, Kitade performed at fifth annual Japan Expo in Paris, France. "Antoinette Blue" was released as Kitade's ninth single on September 5. On November 14 she released her first compilation album, Berry Berry Singles.

Kitade's tenth single, "Suicides Love Story" was released March 5, 2008. The song was used as the ending theme to the Aniplex anime Persona: Trinity Soul, and peaked at No. 64 on the Oricon singles chart. On March 26, Kitade released her 11th single, "Siren", under the alias, Ruby Gloom. The song peaked at No. 189 on the Oricon chart and was used as the theme song to the Japanese dub of the Canadian cartoon, Ruby Gloom. Her 12th single, "Punk&Baby's" was released July 23. The song peaked at No. 108 on the Oricon chart and was used as the introduction theme song to the TV program Rank Okoku for June and July 2008. On the same day a tribute album to Cyndi Lauper was released, titled We Love Cyndi – Tribute to Cyndi Lauper, which featured Kitade doing a cover of the 1983 hit song "She Bop". On August 1 Nana Kitade was announced as a musical guest at the 10th AnimagiC convention in Bonn, Germany. Starting October 4, the song "Tsukihana" was used as the opening theme to the Aniplex anime Jigoku Shoujo Mitsuganae.

"Tsukihana" was released as Kitade's 13th single on February 4, 2009. It peaked at No. 22 on the Oricon singles chart. On March 11, 2009, Kitade released her third studio album, Bondage. Bondage peaked at No. 85 on the Oricon albums chart. On May 5, it was announced on Kitade's official website that she had to cancel an upcoming live show due to poor physical health. On June 1, Sony Music Japan announced Kitade was taking a break from all activities.

2009–12: Loveless and Ai to Hate

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On October 2, 2009, Kitade announced she would begin working on a duo project with Japanese guitarist, Taizo, called Loveless. On October 11 it was announced on Loveless's official site that Kitade's contract with Sony Music Japan has come to an end. Throughout 2010, Kitade toured Tokyo, Japan, promoting Loveless. Due to increased interest and popularity from fans overseas, Kitade released a live video on October 24 of her October 9 performance at Shinjuku Marz. In December, Kitade and Taizo traveled to Germany where Loveless was signed to German-based label, Spark & Shine, and began recording new material.

In 2011, the songs "Little Tears" and "Love. Lust Free" were released on the duo's official Myspace page. Starting April 8, Kitade and Taizo set out on a European tour, titled Nana Kitade feat. Loveless Europe Tour. The tour began in France and ended May 4 in the Netherlands. During the tour, Kitade also performed in Germany, Poland, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Morocco, the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Spain. On June 10, Loveless released their first (and only) EP, Ai to Hate.

In December 2012 it was announced that Loveless had been disbanded and that Kitade and Loveless had been dropped from Spark and Shine.

2012–2016: The Teenage Kissers

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On December 24, 2012, Kitade announced she was forming a new band along with drummer Mai Koike and bassist Hideo Nekota, called The Teenage Kissers.[1]

The band's debut single "Ghost Bitch" was released in a special physical edition February 20, 2013, and was distributed only at live shows.[2] On April 6, 2013, Tsubasa Nakada joined the band as lead guitarist.[1] On June 16, 2013 "Ghost Bitch" was re-released in digital format through the Media Factory music label.[3] The band's second single, "Night Night Night" was released July 5, 2013.[4] The band's third single, "TYTD", was released July 7, 2013.[5] The band's first EP, Perfectly Dirty, was released in Japan October 16, 2013, and internationally October 30, 2013.[6] The EP was well received in Japan as well as overseas. Also the EP is the first Nana's EP to receive the Parental Advisory Explicit Content label in its jacket, making this CD the first in her career to have that label on it. The EP peaked at number 224 on the Oricon Albums Chart.[7]

In 2014, THE TEENAGE KISSERS announced their first full-length album, Virgin Field on May 9, with a July 9, 2014, release date. The album consists of 13 tracks, including a cover of Velvet Underground song "Sunday Morning" on May 29, 2014, the band announced their first national tour RIPE TOMATO TOUR. On June 6, 2014, THE TEENAGE KISSERS released a single titled I Love You and Kiss Me exclusively on the Japanese iTunes store, the single quickly rose up the ranks and peaked at rank 6 on the Japanese iTunes store alternative music category.

The band released their fourth single, "Feel Sick" November 10, 2013.[8] On May 9, 2014, the band announced their first full-length studio album, Virgin Field. The band's fifth single, "I Love You and Kiss Me" was released exclusively through the iTunes Store June 6, 2014.[9] The song was previously included as a bonus track on the special edition of the single "Ghost Bitch". The song was used as the opening song for the show Rank Kingdom for the months of June and July 2014.[10] The song became the most successful for the band, peaking at rank 6 on the Japanese iTunes store alternative music category. The band's sixth single, a double a-side vinyl, "Needle / Crystal Swan" was released June 30, 2014.[11] Virgin Field was released July 9, 2014.[12] The album features the previous singles "Feel Sick", "I Love You and Kiss Me", "Needle" and "Crystal Swan" as well as a cover of the song "Sunday Morning" by The Velvet Underground.[13] The album peaked at No. 242 on the Oricon Albums Chart.[14]

The Teenage Kissers released their seventh single, a double a-side, "Howl / Magical Forest" January 16, 2015, as an exclusive cassette tape available only at the band's One Man Tour.[15] On June 19, 2015, the band announced their second EP, Lightning Machine to be released August 5, 2015, through Gaze Records. The EP will feature the previous single, "Night Night Night".[16] The music video for "Psychic Haze", a song from the EP, was posted to the band's official YouTube page July 20, 2015.

The band's final single was released September 23, 2015. It is a double a-side single featuring a remix of "Violent Lips" by Araki of Storoboy and a remix of "Out of Control" by Toru Matsumoto of TRMTRM. On May 20, 2016, the band announced they would be going on hiatus to focus on their respective solo projects.

2016–present: return to solo career and 4th album

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In September 2016 Nana Kitade returned to her solo career with the release of her 13th single, "Bad Babe's Dreamer". Kitade released her 14th single, "Last Snowdome", December 19, 2016. Nana released her fourth album, "Violet Blaze", on May 3, 2017.

Fashion and modeling

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With the 2005 release of "Kiss or Kiss", Kitade revealed her new Gothic Lolita inspired look. She gained the interest of Lolita clothing companies such as Baby, The Stars Shine Bright, of which she has repeatedly stated to be her favorite brand. In 2007 she began appearing monthly prints of Kera Magazine wearing Gothic Lolita styled clothes. In February 2008 Kitade did a cover feature interview for the US edition of Gothic & Lolita Bible. In Europe, Nana Kitade was featured in the 50th Issue of Neo Magazine in August 2008. Kitade was considered a Lolita fashion icon for many teenage girls around the world. After her first 2009 hiatus and her rebranding with Loveless, she started to adopt a more adult-like/ero/gothic and aristocrat style, before going back to a more girlish and grungy style with The teenage kissers. Her 4th studio album, Violet Blaze, and more precisely her music videos of her songs Bad Babe's Dreamer, Make Believe and Just A Day marked her collaboration with Japanese director and fashion designer Kanae Higashi, who owns the brand rurumu. Nana Kitade will keep on showcasing a very strong and personal sense of feminine fashion, often going back to lolita - as she from time to time will be seen modeling for japanese brands such as Victorian Maiden and Moi Même Moitié over the years - as seen on her socials.

Discography

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Tours

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  • Nana Kitade Tour (2004)
  • Nana Kitade feat. Loveless Europe Tour (2011)

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Nana Kitade (born May 2, 1987) is a Japanese singer-songwriter, , model, and fashion designer known for her J-rock solo work and gothic lolita aesthetic. She gained initial fame after passing a competitive Sony Music Japan audition in 2002 out of 40,000 entrants, leading to her debut single "Kesenai Tsumi" on October 29, 2003, which served as the first ending theme for the Fullmetal Alchemist. Throughout her over two-decade career, Kitade has released multiple solo albums, including 18 (2005) and Cutie Bunny (2006), often drawing lyrical inspiration from , , and themes of resilience and emotion, influenced by artists like Garbage and her upbringing. From 2009 to 2012, she fronted the band , releasing the EP Ai to Hate (2011), before forming the grunge band The Teenage Kissers in 2012, with whom she recorded albums like Virgin Field (2014) until the group's hiatus in 2016. As a model, she has been featured in publications such as Gothic & Lolita Bible and Kera, and she designs custom gothic lolita outfits, blending her music and fashion interests. In recent years, Kitade has resumed solo activities, including international tours celebrating her 20th anniversary in 2023, and announced the reformation of for the album Labyrection on November 24, 2025, alongside live performances in and .

Life and career

1987–2001: Early life

Nana Kitade was born on May 2, 1987, in , , . Growing up in the region's expansive natural landscapes, she drew early inspiration from the wide skies and serene environment, which later influenced her artistic expressions. From a young age, Kitade showed a strong interest in music, beginning piano lessons at the age of three. She continued practicing the instrument through her childhood, though she eventually shifted focus as her tastes evolved toward . By age twelve, she had started writing her own lyrics, marking the beginning of her creative songwriting journey. In junior high school, Kitade became an avid fan of singer-songwriter Ringo Shiina, whose work motivated her to pick up the guitar and pursue vocal training. She frequently traveled from to for singing lessons, demonstrating her growing commitment to a musical path. This period solidified her aspiration to become a professional artist, leading her to audition opportunities by the early 2000s.

2002–2005: Debut and 18: Eighteen

In 2002, at the age of 15, Nana Kitade passed the Sony Music Japan audition held across the country, earning selection as the representative from the region and securing a with the label. This breakthrough marked her transition from local performances to a professional music career under SME Records, a subsidiary of Sony Music Japan. Kitade made her major debut with the single "Kesenai Tsumi" (Indelible Sin) on October 29, 2003, which served as the first ending theme for the anime series and quickly gained popularity among viewers. The track, blending punk-rock energy with emotional lyrics about guilt and redemption, peaked at number 14 on the weekly singles chart and sold over 30,000 copies in its first week. Follow-up singles included "Utareru Ame" (Shot Rain) on February 4, 2004, a melancholic rock reflecting themes of isolation, and "Hold Heart" on July 22, 2004, which explored resilience amid heartbreak. These releases established her signature style of melodic infused with raw emotional intensity. On August 24, 2005, Kitade released her debut studio album 18: Eighteen, a collection of 12 tracks that captured the and defiance of youth through gothic-tinged aesthetics and rebellious . Produced primarily by Akimitsu Honma and Susumu Nishikawa, the album featured re-recorded versions of her earlier singles alongside new songs like "Alice" and "Rasen" (Spiral), emphasizing personal struggles and empowerment. It debuted at number 16 on the weekly albums chart, remaining on the ranking for five weeks and selling approximately 15,000 copies in its opening week. During this period, Kitade gained early visibility through television appearances, including performances on major programs like Music Station, where she promoted tracks such as "Kiss or Kiss" from the album. The tie-in with Fullmetal Alchemist further amplified her exposure, introducing her gothic lolita fashion and punk attitude to a broader anime and music audience in Japan.

2006: Slave of Kiss, Cutie Bunny, and I Scream

In early 2006, Nana Kitade released her first EP, Slave of Kiss, on , featuring a cover of Princess Princess's "" alongside original tracks that blended her rock style with romantic and edgy themes. The EP peaked at number 79 on the and remained on the chart for one week, reflecting her continued exploration of youthful, kiss-themed motifs while incorporating stronger punk elements compared to her debut album. Following a series of 13 cell phone-exclusive singles released between April and August—each priced at 100 yen and available only via mobile downloads—Kitade issued her second EP, Cutie Bunny Nanateki Rock Daisakusen Code Name wa C.B.R., on July 12. This mini-album, which reached number 89 on the chart, primarily consisted of punk-infused covers of opening themes, including "Ramu no Love Song" from and "" from , highlighting her ability to reinterpret classic tracks with a raw, -inspired edge. The release underscored her growing affinity for cover versions and contributed to an expanding fanbase within Japan's community, drawn to her gothic lolita aesthetic and energetic live performances. Kitade capped the year with her second studio album, I Scream, on December 6, which debuted at number 150 on the and charted for one week. The 13-track collection mixed original compositions, such as "Star Killer" and "Watashi wa Jigen Bakudan," with covers like Green Day's "Basket Case" (titled "Ronyori Shōko"), emphasizing a maturation in her sound toward darker, more aggressive influences while retaining playful, high-energy vocals. Produced by a team including arrangers Kazunori Watanabe and composers like Masaki Iehara, the album solidified her position in the scene, where fans appreciated the fusion of anime-inspired elements and rebellious punk attitudes.

2007–2009: Berry Berry Singles and Bondage

In 2007, Nana Kitade released her first compilation album, Berry Berry Singles, on November 14, which collected remixed versions of her previous hit singles such as "Kesenai Tsumi," "Kiss or Kiss," and "Antoinette Blue," alongside new footage from her performance at Japan Expo in Paris. The album marked a reflective pause in her solo career, blending her earlier punk-influenced tracks from the 2006 EPs like Slave of Kiss and I Scream with updated arrangements to showcase her evolving sound. This release highlighted her growing international appeal, particularly in Europe, where her Gothic Lolita aesthetic had garnered attention among fans. Building on the punk elements of her prior work, Kitade's music during this period shifted toward darker, more mature themes, evident in singles like "Suicides Love Story" (March 5, 2008) and "Punk&Baby's" (July 23, 2008), which explored emotional turmoil and rebellious energy. These tracks incorporated heavier rock influences and introspective lyrics, aligning with her visual style that increasingly drew from bondage-inspired aesthetics, including restrained, provocative imagery in promotional materials. Her fashion choices, rooted in Gothic Lolita designs she often wore and later contributed to, reinforced this thematic depth, blending innocence with edginess. Kitade's third studio album, Bondage, arrived on March 11, 2009, serving as her final release under Sony Music Japan and encapsulating this maturation in sound and presentation. The album debuted at number 85 on the weekly charts, featuring 12 tracks including "Femme Fatale," "Tsukihana," and "Antoinette Blue," with production emphasizing atmospheric rock elements and themes of liberation, desire, and inner conflict—reflected in the title's nod to restraint and release. Songs like "Death Showcase" and "Under Babydoll" delved into psychological tension, supported by visuals of leather accents, corsets, and shadowy motifs that amplified her shift to a bolder, more sensual persona. On February 4, 2009, Kitade issued the single "Tsukihana," which peaked at number 22 on the and previewed Bondage's darker tone with its moonlit, ethereal melody. This period also saw her deepening ties to , as she performed at events integrating her music with Lolita-style shows, further establishing her as an icon in Japan's alternative streetwear scene.

2009–2012: Loveless and Ai to Hate

In 2009, following the conclusion of her solo activities centered on the album Bondage, Nana Kitade transitioned toward collaborative work by forming the band . The project was announced on October 2, 2009, via her official website, positioning Kitade as the alongside Taizo (also stylized as Taizer) and Shintaro. This marked a shift from her prior solo gothic and style to a group dynamic emphasizing aesthetics and international outreach, building on the darker, more mature themes explored in her Bondage era. Loveless debuted with a focus on live performances, culminating in an extensive European tour in early 2011 that spanned 16 shows across countries including , , and the . The tour served as a promotional platform ahead of their sole release, the EP Ai to Hate (stylized as 愛とHate Ai to Hate), issued on June 10, 2011, through the German label Spark & Shine. Comprising five tracks—"Swallowtail," "Ai to Hate," "Gensoumamire," "," and "Snow Hell"—the EP blended with subtle electronic elements, reflecting Kitade's evolving sound while maintaining her signature emotive vocals and lyrical introspection on love, loss, and duality. Track "Ai to Hate" was highlighted as the , underscoring the project's thematic core of contrasting emotions. Though framed as a band effort, Ai to Hate was credited to Nana Kitade / , effectively serving as a hybrid solo-band venture that allowed Kitade to experiment with production influences from Taizo. The release received limited distribution, primarily in , and did not chart prominently in , aligning with Loveless's overseas-oriented . Post-release, the band conducted additional promotional activities, but internal tensions emerged, leading to the announcement of their disbandment on December 28, 2012. The split was attributed to creative differences among members, concluding the project's brief but influential run in Kitade's career.

2012–2016: The Teenage Kissers

In 2012, Nana Kitade formed the band The Teenage Kissers as lead vocalist, recruiting bassist Hideo Nekota and drummer Mai Koike, with guitarist Tsubasa Nakada joining shortly thereafter. The group drew stylistic influences from Kitade's prior experience with the band , blending raw energy with melodic elements. Their debut EP, Perfectly Dirty, was released on October 16, 2013, via , featuring tracks that showcased a grunge-infused sound centered on themes of youthful and romance. The band followed with their first full-length album, Virgin Field, on July 9, 2014, which included the single "I Love You and Kiss Me" and expanded on aggression paired with romantic lyricism, earning praise for its abrasive yet accessible style reminiscent of 1990s acts. In 2015, they issued the mini-album Lightning Machine on August 5 through Records, highlighting songs like "Psychic Haze" and "Milky" that continued to explore punk-driven romance and emotional intensity. After completing a nationwide tour, The Teenage Kissers announced an indefinite hiatus on May 20, 2016, citing the members' desire to pursue individual solo projects and evolving personal schedules.

2016–2022: Return to solo career and Violet Blaze

In 2016, following the hiatus of her band The Teenage Kissers, Nana Kitade announced her return to a solo career through her official website. This marked a shift back to independent work after years focused on group projects, with her solo sound incorporating elements of rock intensity learned from band collaborations. She resumed releases with her 13th single, "Bad Babe's Dreamer / Isolation," on September 21, 2016, a double A-side blending upbeat pop-rock with introspective themes. Later that year, on December 19, she issued her 14th single, "Last Snowdome," which featured a more melancholic, winter-inspired arrangement and was performed at a sold-out solo live show in . These singles served as precursors to her long-awaited fourth studio album, building anticipation among fans for her individual artistic voice. Kitade released Violet Blaze on May 3, 2017, her first solo album in eight years and a digital-only offering that fused rock foundations with electronic and elements, creating a dynamic of danceable tracks and emotional depth. In an , she described the album as an expression of "anger at oppression," reflecting personal growth and a transition from her earlier rock-heavy style toward more processed, pop-oriented production. The record included contributions from the lead singles, but promotion was relatively subdued, limited to a TV commercial, behind-the-scenes videos, and a one-off at Mount Rainier Hall on June 3, 2017. This approach allowed the album to resonate with core listeners while emphasizing its thematic intensity over widespread touring. From 2018 to 2022, Kitade maintained a lower public profile, releasing sporadic digital singles amid a period of reduced visibility. Notable among these was "Omoi" on October 31, 2018, a collaborative track with Susumu Nishikawa that explored themes of longing through acoustic-infused pop. She followed with a mini-album, New Dawn, in May 2020, adapting to the by shifting to livestreams for fan interactions rather than live performances. Further digital releases included "Kesenai Tsumi / Tsukihana BEST Tag" on March 23, 2022, signaling her continued focus on songwriting and selective output during this quieter phase, with minimal in-person appearances.

2023–present: 20th anniversary tour and Loveless reunion

In April 2023, Kitade embarked on her "Dive to the 20th Anniversary Nana Kitade & Tour," marking her return to international performances after a decade-long hiatus from European stages. The tour included stops in cities such as , , , , and culminated in appearances at conventions like AniNite in , , where she performed on August 12 and 13. This series of shows celebrated her two decades in music, featuring sets drawn from her solo catalog and early hits, with the European leg emphasizing her enduring appeal among global fans. Building on the gothic and influences from her Violet Blaze project, Kitade continued her convention appearances into 2025 with a performance at Animefest in , , on May 24, delivering a high-energy set to an enthusiastic crowd at the largest pop culture festival in the country. In parallel, she relaunched memberships for her official , "NANA KITADE BITCH CLUB," in August 2025, offering exclusive perks like premium T-shirts and membership cards to supporters through the end of 2026. A significant highlight of the period was the reunion of her early band Loveless in 2025, featuring Kitade on vocals alongside original members Taizer on guitar and Shintaro on drums. The group marked their return with a worldwide streaming live performance titled "Vanity Tears" on May 4, 2025, streamed via ZAIKO and archived for a week. This was followed by the release of their new album Labyrection on November 24, 2025, a limited-edition CD comprising eight tracks including "Gate for Falling," "Psycho Bitch," "Hallucination Cry," and "Endless Dream." The album launch featured another streaming concert on November 25, 2025, at Shibuya Club Malcolm, with special guest WOLFGRIEF, blending the band's signature aggressive rock sound with fresh material.

Fashion and modeling

Modeling career

Nana Kitade's modeling career emerged alongside her musical endeavors in the mid-2000s, establishing her as an icon within Japan's gothic lolita subculture. Beginning in 2005, she featured prominently in Gothic & Lolita Bible, a leading publication on the style, where she appeared in editorial spreads showcasing ensembles from prominent brands and participated in interviews highlighting her affinity for the aesthetic. These early appearances solidified her role as a reader model and trend influencer, blending her punk-infused lolita look with the magazine's focus on doll-like elegance and Victorian-inspired designs. Her professional modeling extended to promotional campaigns tied to her solo albums, including 18: Eighteen (2005) and Bondage (2009), where she posed for editorials and that emphasized her signature porcelain-doll appearance. These efforts often involved collaborations with brands, such as a special portrait series for Victorian Maiden, capturing her in elaborate, layered outfits that mirrored the thematic darkness of her music. Kitade's work in these promotions not only boosted album visibility but also positioned her as a bridge between J-rock and street , with her imagery frequently reprinted in related magazines like Kera. During the , Kitade's modeling reached international audiences through gigs aligned with her European tours, particularly as part of her duo in 2011. She showcased her doll-like aesthetic at convention appearances and events in countries like and the , adapting gothic elements to appeal to global fans while promoting Japanese abroad. This phase underscored her versatility, as her modeling complemented live performances and reinforced her status as a multifaceted artist in the visual kei and alternative scenes.

Fashion design and personal style

Nana Kitade's personal style has been a defining aspect of her public image, prominently featuring gothic lolita aesthetics that fuse Victorian-inspired frills, dark color palettes, and punk elements, thereby influencing the visual kei subculture among fans and artists alike. In the early 2000s, her look embodied a rebellious punk schoolgirl vibe, characterized by tartan patterns, studded accessories, and disheveled uniforms, as seen in her music videos and live performances that captured the raw energy of her debut era. This aesthetic evolved post-2010 into a more refined gothic elegance, with layered corsets, lace details, and monochromatic ensembles that conveyed maturity while retaining an edgy, subversive undertone. Kitade ventured into through collaborations with prominent brands, notably partnering with Baby, the Stars Shine Bright in 2007 for the limited-edition Nana Kitade x Charmmy Kitty collection, which included punk-inspired skirts, cutsews, chokers, and accessories drawing from her album themes and signature style. These pieces, such as the Bontage Nana Charmmy Skirt with its bondage straps and cartoon motifs, highlighted her ability to blend pop culture with subcultural fashion. Reflecting her ongoing influence, Kitade's 2025 fan club merchandise via the official store incorporates elements of her mature gothic aesthetic, featuring premium T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts in black and dark tones, and accessories like silver rings designed for her anniversary celebrations.

Solo studio albums

Nana Kitade's solo studio albums span her evolution from gothic-tinged pop-rock to more experimental and electronic sounds, reflecting her personal growth and shifts in musical style over nearly two decades. Her debut full-length release established her as a promising artist with ties to soundtracks, while subsequent works explored covers, darker themes, and eventual reinvention. These albums, released under major and independent labels, often incorporated Kitade's songwriting alongside collaborations with producers, though commercial success varied, with early efforts charting modestly on before a hiatus and digital comeback. 18 -eighteen-
Released on August 24, 2005, by , 18 -eighteen- marked Kitade's debut as a solo artist at age 18, compiling tracks from her initial singles and introducing her signature blend of rock-infused pop with emotional, youthful themes of love, regret, and self-discovery. The album was produced primarily by Akimitsu Honma for select tracks (1, 4–6) and Susumu Nishikawa for others (2, 3, 7–11), with Kitade contributing lyrics throughout, emphasizing raw, confessional storytelling inspired by her early career breakthroughs like the anime tie-in "Kesenai Tsumi." It peaked at #16 on the weekly albums chart and remained for five weeks, indicating solid initial reception among listeners. Critically, the album was praised for its cohesive energy and Kitade's versatile vocals, though some noted its reliance on single remixes limited deeper innovation.
No.TitleLength
1Kiss or Kiss3:58
2Kesenai Tsumi4:14
3Rasen4:10
4Pureness3:49
5Hold Heart4:00
6Alice4:25
7Kanashimi no Kizu4:47
8Utareru Ame4:28
9Fake4:15
10Shunkan4:50
11Eighteen Sky3:59
I Scream
Kitade's second studio album, I Scream, arrived on December 6, 2006, via , shifting toward edgier rock elements with a mix of originals and covers of hits, exploring themes of , isolation, and inner turmoil amid her growing interest in punk influences. The project followed a series of berry-themed singles and mini-releases, incorporating playful yet dark motifs like time bombs and forbidden love, with production emphasizing dynamic arrangements to highlight Kitade's maturing vocal delivery. It debuted at #150 on the chart, charting for just one week, reflecting declining sales amid label changes but earning appreciation for its bold cover selections, such as "Ramu no Lovesong" from . Reception noted the album's transitional feel, bridging her pop origins with harder sounds, though commercial underperformance signaled challenges in maintaining momentum.
No.TitleLength
1Star Killer4:08
2Watashi wa Jigen Bakudan3:40
3Ramu no Lovesong3:09
4Ron yori Shoko4:25
513-nichi no Kinyobi4:26
6Dark Snow Angel5:38
7Sweet Frozen Kiss3:44
8Akai Kami no Onnanoko3:32
9M'aider4:10
10Kibou no Kakera4:45
11Innocent World5:05
12Fujiyuu na Asa3:57
13Basket Case (Bonus)3:25
Bondage
Issued on March 11, 2009, by Sony Music, Bondage represented Kitade's third full-length effort, delving into gothic and dramatic themes of liberation, seduction, and existential angst, shortly before her announced hiatus for health reasons. The album featured collaborations like the outro theme "Antoinette Blue" for D.Gray-man and a cover of Cyndi Lauper's "She Bop," with production handled internally at Sony and mastered at their Tokyo studios, showcasing a polished, theatrical sound. It peaked at #85 on the Oricon weekly albums chart but did not sustain high chart placement, aligning with Kitade's evolving darker aesthetic amid personal struggles. Critics viewed it as a mature pivot, appreciating tracks like "Femme Fatale" for their intensity, though the impending break tempered broader promotion and reception.
No.TitleLength
1Redemption - Kaihou -3:30
24:53
3Tsukihana5:04
4Antoinette Blue4:14
5Death Showcase3:14
6Aether4:41
7Under 4:47
8Lamia -Vivace Ver.-6:01
9Punk & Babys3:25
10She Bop -Bondage Ver.-3:15
11Suicides Love Story4:59
12My Dear Maria4:56
Violet Blaze
After an eight-year absence from solo releases, Kitade returned with Violet Blaze on May 7, 2017, through independent label Fabtone, embracing and dance elements to explore vulnerability, fleeting romance, and resilience, produced largely by Robert de Boron with Kitade co-writing key tracks. This digital-first album topped the Eroctronic-Charts, signaling a successful niche revival without major label support. Themes centered on emotional , as in "Saddest Song," blending her rock roots with polished electronic production that reviewers hailed as a "drastic improvement" in vocal maturity and clarity. The shift from punk to pop was lauded for its accessibility, attracting new audiences while retaining core fans, with standout energy in "Nasty Radio" bridging eras.
No.TitleLength
1Make-Believe3:41
2Saddest Song3:34
3One Night Story3:51
4Borrowed Time3:49
5Canary3:45
6Bad Babe's Dreamer3:48
7Nasty Radio3:37
83:57
9Violet Blaze (Instrumental)3:41
10Shed One Tear3:29
11Shine Drops3:30

Solo singles

Nana Kitade released her debut solo single, "Kesenai Tsumi", on October 29, 2003, under Sony Music Japan. The track served as the first ending theme for the anime and peaked at number 14 on the weekly singles chart, remaining on the chart for 22 weeks. This release marked her entry into the J-pop scene with a gothic rock sound, accompanied by a B-side titled "raw 'breath' track", a raw version emphasizing her vocal intensity. Subsequent singles built on this momentum, blending with tie-ins. "Utareru Ame", released February 4, 2004, featured emotional lyrics and peaked at number 28 on . "HOLD HEART", out on July 22, 2004, was promoted alongside her growing modeling career in . The double A-side "pureness / Nanairo" followed on November 17, 2004, debuting at number 60 on and charting for three weeks; "pureness" highlighted her softer side, while "Nanairo" (Seven Colors) incorporated colorful imagery in its music video. Kitade's fifth single, "Kiss or Kiss", arrived on June 1, 2005, as the theme song for the Nippon Television drama Anego. It became her highest-charting release, reaching number 11 on the Oricon weekly chart. The B-side "Sick Sad World" added a darker punk edge, tying into her evolving style during the promotion of her debut album 18: Eighteen. Later, "Slave of Kiss" (February 8, 2006) peaked at number 79 on Oricon, with its intense rock arrangement and B-side "Love is Dead", reflecting themes of obsession. "Kibou no Kakera" (October 4, 2006), used as the opening theme for the anime xxxHolic, debuted at number 64 and featured hopeful lyrics amid her shift toward more mature themes. In 2007, "Candy Girl" (April 18, 2007) brought a playful yet edgy vibe, peaking at number 28 on and serving as a for her Berry Berry Singles compilation. "Ram no Love Song" (January 17, 2007) earlier incorporated electronic elements. By 2008, "Siren" (March 26, 2008) tied to the Japanese dub of the cartoon , debuting at number 189 on , with B-side "Himitsu". "Punk&Baby's" (July 23, 2008), inspired by British punk, was the outro theme for Asahi's Switch Girl!! and peaked at number 108; its B-side "Evergreen" offered a contrasting . These releases were part of her "Berry Berry" monthly single series, emphasizing affordable, cover-influenced tracks for fans. After a hiatus focused on band work, Kitade resumed solo releases in 2016 with the double A-side "Bad Babe's Dreamer / Isolation" on , sold exclusively at her "Bad Grrrls' Night Out #1" live event in before wider digital distribution. "Bad Babe's Dreamer" evoked rebellious rock energy, while "Isolation" delivered introspective , promoting her comeback album Violet Blaze. No physical chart entry was recorded due to its limited initial format. "Last Snowdome" followed digitally on December 19, 2016, as her 14th single, focusing on themes of closure and nostalgia in a minimalist production. These later singles shifted toward independent digital promotion, aligning with her 20th anniversary activities.
TitleRelease DateOricon PeakTie-inB-side(s)
Kesenai Tsumi2003-10-29#14Fullmetal Alchemist endingraw "breath" track
Utareru Ame2004-02-04#28NoneN/A
HOLD HEART2004-07-22#95NoneN/A
pureness / Nanairo2004-11-17#60NoneN/A
Kiss or Kiss2005-06-01#11Anego themeSick Sad World
Slave of Kiss2006-02-08#79NoneLove is Dead
Kibou no Kakera2006-10-04#64 openingN/A
Candy Girl2007-04-18#28NoneN/A
Siren2008-03-26#189Ruby Gloom (JP dub) themeHimitsu
Punk&Baby's2008-07-23#108Switch Girl!! outroEvergreen
Bad Babe's Dreamer / Isolation2016-09-19Uncharted (digital/limited)None(Double A-side)
Last Snowdome2016-12-19Uncharted (digital)NoneN/A

Work with bands

Nana Kitade began her band career as the of , formed in September 2009 alongside Taizo. The duo's sound blended J-rock elements with emotional , often exploring themes of love and inner conflict. Their sole release during this period was the EP Ai to Hate, issued on June 10, 2011, by Spark & Shine Records. This five-track mini-album marked Kitade's shift toward heavier, band-oriented compositions compared to her earlier solo work, featuring raw guitar riffs and dynamic vocal performances. The tracklist includes "Swallowtail" (5:14), "Ai to Hate" (2:58), "Gensoumamire" (5:57), "" (4:26), and "Snow Hell" (4:54), with "Ai to Hate" serving as the title track and a standout for its intense emotional delivery. The band toured extensively in 2010–2011 to promote their music but disbanded in December 2012. In 2012, Kitade formed The Teenage Kissers, a -influenced rock band from , with bassist Hideo Nekota, drummer Mai Koike, and guitarist Tsubasa Nakada. Drawing from aesthetics, the group's sound emphasized distorted guitars, powerful drums, and Kitade's versatile vocals, often addressing themes of youth, rebellion, and melancholy. Their debut EP, Perfectly Dirty, was released on October 16, 2013, via , capturing their raw energy with six tracks: "Black Skinny Bird" (5:06), "Ghost Bitch" (3:07), "Flower Bed" (3:29), "Violent Lips" (4:25), "Daydreamer" (5:57), and "Wendy." Representative singles from this era included "Violent Lips," noted for its aggressive riffing and critique of superficiality. The Teenage Kissers followed with their first full-length album, Virgin Field, on July 9, 2014, also through . This eight-track release expanded their palette with more melodic elements, including "I Love You and Me" as a key single highlighting romantic tension through hazy . The album's tracklist comprises "Halt," "Damage," "Feel Sick," "Rain in My Heart," "Venus Hypnosis," "Jellyfish," "Unicorn Riders," and "I Love You and Me," establishing the band's reputation in Japan's alternative scene. Their final release, the EP Lightning Machine, arrived on August 5, 2015, via Gaze Records, featuring seven tracks such as "Psychic Haze" (4:40), "Out of Control" (5:27), "シャーロットの森 [Charlotte no Mori]" (6:06), "Shadow Queen" (3:51), "Night Night Night" (2:07), "Shooting Star" (4:17), and "" (6:04). The EP showcased experimental edges with psychedelic influences, exemplified by the sprawling "." The band went on indefinite hiatus in May 2016. Loveless reunited in 2025 for their first full-length album, Labyrection, released on November 24, 2025, as a limited-edition CD available through Kitade's official store. The reunion featured Kitade on vocals, original guitarist Taizer (Taizo), and new drummer Shintaro, reflecting on themes of chaos, rebirth, and emotional labyrinths amid the band's decade-long absence. This eight-track album serves as a conceptual evolution from their 2011 EP, blending alternative rock with matured production. The tracklist is: 1. "Gate for Falling," 2. "愛欲 FREE [Aiyoku Free]," 3. "Psycho Bitch," 4. "Hallucination Cry," 5. "Labyrection," 6. "虚飾の涙 [Kyosou no Namida]," 7. "Endless Dream," 8. "Empty Killing Me." A release show at Shibuya Club Malcolm on the same day included a split CD collaboration with Czech band WOLFGRIEF, limited to 100 copies.

Tours and live performances

Solo tours

Kitade's early solo tours primarily consisted of club performances in to promote her initial releases. In 2005, following the buildup to her debut album 18: Eighteen, she conducted a series of shows across Japanese venues, including a one-man live performance at AX on September 7, which showcased tracks like "Rasen" and "Kesenai Tsumi" from the album. Footage from this event was featured in the DVD NANA KITADE -18MOVIES-, released on December 7, 2005, highlighting her emerging style in intimate club settings. These performances marked the start of her independent live circuit, emphasizing high-energy sets with visual elements tied to her aesthetic. During the 2007–2009 phase of her solo career, Kitade focused on promotional lives for singles leading to her third album Bondage, released in March 2009. Although full tour documentation is limited, she performed in Japanese clubs throughout 2008, incorporating songs such as "Suicides Love Story" (the ending theme for Persona: Trinity Soul) and "Siren" into sets that previewed the darker, more experimental themes of Bondage. These club-based shows, often in venues like those in Shibuya and other urban centers, served as precursors to her brief hiatus after the album's release, blending rock anthems with theatrical staging to engage fans during her Sony Music era. In 2017, Kitade returned to solo activities with promotional shows for her fourth album Violet Blaze, her first full-length release in eight years. The key event was the album's release party on June 3, 2017, at Mt. Rainier Hall in , , where she performed a setlist blending new material like "KISS or KISS" and "Antoinette Blue" with earlier hits such as "Candy Star" and "Lamia." This intimate hall show, attended by dedicated fans, underscored her shift toward pop-infused rock while maintaining her signature visual flair, and it sold out quickly, signaling strong support for her independent comeback under Fabtone Records. Kitade's 2023 20th anniversary celebrations culminated in the Dive to the 20th Anniversary Nana Kitade & Tour, her most extensive international solo endeavor to date, spanning multiple countries and focusing on career-spanning setlists. The tour began with performances from March 24 to 26 at Nadeshicon in , . The European leg kicked off on April 22, 2023, at Mang' Azur in , , followed by April 23 at FicZone in , ; April 26 at The Waiting Room in , UK; April 27 at Le Petit Journal in , ; and April 29 at Mondocon in , . Typical setlists featured 15–20 songs, including staples like "Rasen," "," and "Violet Blaze" tracks, performed with a backing band to evoke her solo phases from 2005 onward. This tour highlighted her global appeal, with venues ranging from convention halls to clubs, and concluded with a streamed final show in on October 28, 2023, at Chelsea Hotel in .

Band tours and reunions

Following the formation of Loveless in 2009 with guitarist Taizo, the duo conducted a promotional tour across in 2010 to build momentum for their sound. Performances included a notable show on October 9 at Marz, drawing growing local interest amid Kitade's transition from solo work. By late 2012, Loveless announced their disbandment, culminating in final shows that marked the end of the duo's activities under the Spark and Shine label. The group performed select tracks from their EP Ai to Hate during these disbandment events, reflecting on their brief but intense run. In 2013, Kitade formed the grunge-influenced band The Teenage Kissers with bassist Hideo Nekota and drummer Mai Koike, later adding guitarist Tsubasa Nakada. The group embarked on several Japan-wide tours from 2013 to 2016, including a national tour starting in July 2014 to support their debut full album Virgin Field. Additional outings like the 2016 Golden Sky Tour concluded their activities, with the band going on hiatus in May 2016 after performing songs from releases such as Virgin Field and earlier mini-albums. Loveless reunited in 2025 for the first time since 2012, featuring Kitade on vocals, Taizo (now stylized as TAIZER) on guitar, and new addition Shintaro on drums. The comeback included the streaming-exclusive show "Vanity Tears" on May 4 at Tokyo's Los Angeles Club, available worldwide via Zaiko with an archive until May 10. This was followed by the album release event for Labyrection (released November 24) on November 25 at Club Malcolm, also streamed globally and featuring special guest Wolfgrief.

Convention and international appearances

Nana Kitade has appeared at various international and pop culture conventions, where she has performed live sets and engaged with fans through meet-and-greets and interviews. In August 2023, Kitade performed a live concert at AniNite 2023, held at the from August 11 to 13, marking a key international appearance in her post-pandemic touring schedule. The event featured her as a highlighted musician guest, drawing enthusiasts for her performances. Kitade's 2025 convention activities centered on Animefest in , , the country's largest pop culture festival celebrating its 20th anniversary from May 23 to 25. She delivered a live set on May 24 at 8:30 p.m. at the Exhibition Center, featuring songs from that resonated with the crowd, followed by a meet-and-greet session on May 25 at noon. During the event, fans chanted her name enthusiastically, creating an emotional highlight for the performer. Tied to her Animefest visit, Kitade gave an exclusive to Asianstyle in late May 2025, discussing her performance, her 20th music anniversary, and her positive impressions of Czech and , which she described as among the world's most beautiful.

References

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