Akiba Music Launches with First Single from LA-Based Cosplay Idol 'Hamu Cotton'

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - June 30, 2025 - Shinko Music Entertainment (Japan) and Little Akihabara (Los Angeles) proudly announce the launch of AKIBA MUSIC, a new music label spotlighting Japanese pop culture talent from North America. The label's debut release, “Hamu Energy ☆”, is set to launch globally on July 3, 2025, across all major streaming platforms. At the forefront of this transpacific project is Hamu Cotton, a homegrown cosplay idol and YouTuber based in Southern California, with over 500,000 social followers worldwide.

Born in Japan and raised in California, Hamu Cotton began performing in 2021, inspired by 2.5D stage plays and anime culture she encountered in Los Angeles. She has captivated audiences through performances at events such as Anime Expo®, her self-produced live show HamuFest, and viral cosplay dance videos.

As a creator, she has dedicated herself to building a safe space for her fan community, known as Hamustars, a name inspired by the two things she loves most: hamsters and fluffy clouds. Her upcoming single continues that mission—delivering both joy and empowerment.

“Creating a place where fans feel safe and seen has always been my priority.” says Hamu Cotton. “I'm thrilled to connect with my Hamustars in this new way.”

Described as a wotaku anthem, “Hamu Energy ☆” is full of energetic lines drawn straight from the otaku experience. The song's composers have also composed music for Bōkyaku Battery and Love Live! Sunshine!!

Song: Hamu Energy ☆
Lyrics: Hamu Cotton
Composers: Hiroko Yamazaki (Bōkyaku Battery) and Rei Kamiya (Love Live! Sunshine!!)
Choreography: Hamu Cotton
Music Video Art: Harumishiri (LA-based illustrator and project team member)

A sneak preview of the music video will be presented at Anime Expo® 2025, where Hamu Cotton will also be performing live on the IDOL SUMMER ESCAPE stage at 7:00 PM on July 4.

About Hamu Cotton
Hamu Cotton is a Southern California-based cosplayer and YouTuber who brings anime characters to life through original choreography, music, and high-energy performances. A former “mute girl” who found her voice through fandom, Hamu now inspires thousands of fans—affectionately called “Hamustars”—with her passion, authenticity, and drive to create safe spaces for creative expression. With over 70 performances across multiple countries including her self-produced events called HamuFest, “Hamu Energy ☆” marks a bold new milestone in her journey.
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About AKIBA MUSIC
Akiba Music is a new initiative powered by Shinko Music (Tokyo) and Little Akihabara, (Los Angeles) to spotlight emerging local talent and connect the global anime music community through powerful performance-driven storytelling. Hamu Energy ☆ is the first original release under the label and sets the tone for future artist collaborations between Japan and the US.

About Little Akihabara
This slice of Downtown Los Angeles brings the heart of Japanese subculture to you. Experience the thrill of Japanese arcades, find merch of your favorite anime, and even meet an idol in-person in Little Akihabara! Everything in and around Little Akihabara, be it shopping, dining or entertainment, is brought to you by a passionate community who is personally invested in sharing this culture.
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About Shinko Music
Shinko Music Entertainment Co., Ltd. is actively involved in all areas of the music business, from copyright management, utilization of master recordings, band scores, song folios to artist bios, monthly magazines, and tutorial textbooks. As an independent music publisher, we have been at the forefront of the industry since 1932. While cherishing our long history in the music industry, we also produce a wide range of new music, making our presence felt not only in Japan but also in the global music scene.
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