Kanon Wakeshima: The Gothic Lolita Cellist

Japanese singer, songwriter, and classically trained cellist known for her unique blend of neoclassical darkwave, baroque pop, and gothic lolita aesthetics.Born in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, Kanon Wakeshima began playing cello at age three. Discovered by Malice Mizer's Mana while street performing in 2006, she debuted under his label Midi:Nette in 2008. Her music combines ethereal vocals with intricate cello melodies over electronic and rock elements. She gained significant attention through anime tie-ins and maintains a cult following internationally.

• Wakeshima was famously discovered by Malice Mizer and Moi dix Mois leader Mana while she was busking with her cello in Tokyo's trendy Harajuku district, leading to her immediate signing.
• Her debut single "Still Doll" was used as the ending theme for the popular anime "Vampire Knight," launching her career to a global audience and cementing her association with gothic visual styles.
• Despite her darkwave and electronic music output, Wakeshima received rigorous classical training in cello from a very young age at the prestigious Tokyo College of Music's affiliated school.
• She has performed internationally at major conventions like Anime Expo (Los Angeles) and Japan Expo (Paris), showcasing her unique live act where she simultaneously sings and plays cello.
• After her initial releases under Mana's Midi:Nette label (2008-2010), Wakeshima transitioned to Warner Music Japan, exploring slightly more mainstream pop and electronic sounds while retaining her core style on albums like "Lolitawork Libretto" and "Cocoon of Red."