Potomelli: Hironori Momoi’s Journey from New York Jazz Drummer to Tokyo Indie Pop Star
RISING
9 Lounges Team
6/20/2025
Life in the Big Apple: From Underground Clubs to Creative Breakthroughs
New York City has long been the beating heart of jazz culture, and for Momoi, it was a proving ground. Performing in underground clubs and studios across the city, he developed a tight command of rhythm, improvisation, and groove. Sharing spaces once frequented by greats like Miles Davis and John Coltrane, Momoi absorbed not just technique, but a philosophy—a belief in storytelling through sound.
“Jazz gave me the language. But I wanted to speak more than rhythm—I wanted to tell stories,” says Momoi.
In a world of ever-evolving music genres, Potomelli emerges as a bold fusion of past and present. Spearheaded by Tokyo-born musician Hironori Momoi, the solo project combines melodic indie pop with the rhythmic sophistication of modern jazz. It’s a rare blend—one that doesn’t just cross genres, but continents.
After six transformative years in New York City, where he worked as a professional jazz drummer, Momoi returned to Japan with more than just experience. He returned with a vision—to transform his deep-rooted jazz background into something more personal, expressive, and emotionally charged.
A Global Sound for a Global Audience
Potomelli’s sound is warm, intimate, and deeply human. It carries the complexity of jazz, but is wrapped in the approachable charm of indie pop. His songs explore themes of longing, identity, and reflection, with production that feels modern yet organic.
Since the project’s inception, Potomelli has gained a loyal following not just in Japan, but across Southeast Asia—particularly in Taiwan, Indonesia, the Philippines, and India. Platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and SoundCloud have played a major role in his reach, helping connect his unique sound to new listeners hungry for soulful, story-rich pop.
The Birth of Potomelli: A Sonic Transformation
Back in Tokyo, while working as a composer and producer for various artists and clients, a new idea began to form. The name Potomelli symbolizes more than a solo venture—it represents Momoi’s evolution. He began stepping out from behind the drum kit, taking on songwriting, vocals, and production—every note, every lyric, every beat shaped by his own hands.
Under Potomelli, he’s no longer just the rhythmic backbone—he’s the voice, the melody, the message.
The Future: Breaking Boundaries, Building Bridges
In a time where most artists chase algorithms, Potomelli offers something rare—authenticity. His journey from the jazz clubs of New York City to the indie stages of Tokyo reflects a deep commitment to artistry and emotion. His music doesn’t follow trends; it transcends them.
With upcoming releases and collaborations on the horizon, Potomelli is a name to watch. Whether you're a jazz purist, a pop enthusiast, or just someone who loves good storytelling through music, his catalogue invites you into a world that’s raw, real, and richly textured.
Why Potomelli Matters Right Now
He bridges jazz legacy with indie innovation
Offers full creative control as a songwriter, vocalist, and producer
Represents a rising wave of Asian indie artists going global
Resonates across cultures through emotion-driven music
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