【Superstar Wo Utatte.】 Singing to Survive Poverty. Singing to Live!

“Superstar Wo Utatte.” is a stimulating and profound story where poverty intersects with music. Set in the harsh streets of Osaka, it portrays the life of 17-year-old protagonist Yukito Ojiro. His life is always adjacent to harsh realities. Having lost his mother and sister at a young age, the portrayal of him living as a dealer in loneliness and despair strongly captures the readers' hearts. However, hidden within him is a passionate love for music, and how he overcomes this pain with his songs is key to the story.

This story portrays people seeking salvation in music. Yukito's pursuit of his dream as a rapper influences those around him, inspiring them to also make their voices heard to the world. The unique atmosphere of Osaka, Japan, and their passionate involvement in hip-hop amidst their lived realities add depth and realism to the story.

The appeal of this work lies not only in its seriousness and darkness but also in the strong vitality and hope of its protagonists. The unique and seemingly rough drawing style enhances the rawness and realism of the story. Their struggles, conflicts, and love for music are portrayed realistically, sometimes intensely.

The rap of the snowman, as his living testament, is deeply engraved not only in the characters of the story but also in the hearts of the readers. The light of hope found in suffering is the charm of this manga. The story draws readers in strongly with the life revealed at the snowman's first live performance, leading them to the next development.

This work is not just a coming-of-age story but contains a deep message questioning the meaning of living. I hope that the cries of the young people, burdened by harsh realities and expressed through music, reach many people. In particular, the depiction of the rap scenes is very realistic, and the need for poetry (lyrics) to survive deeply resonates. Readers can feel their own sufferings and troubles through the rap of the snowman and his friends.

The author skillfully blends harsh realities with the creativity of young people, creating a new form of coming-of-age story. The comic style of the illustrations contrasts with the tragic reality of the story, drawing readers in further. With each episode's conclusion, anticipation builds as to what will happen next.
This manga offers more than just superficial entertainment. Through the portrayal of young people pursuing their dreams and making their voices heard even in tough situations, it questions the meaning of life. Their story may not appeal to everyone, but precisely for that reason, it leaves a lasting, profound impression on the heart.

'Superstar Wo Utatte' is not just a manga, but a work that deeply moves by capturing the essence of living and chasing dreams. Each reader can face their own inner self and gain new insights. I sincerely hope this story resonates with many people's hearts and becomes their salvation.