Chilli Beans. spoke with Billboard Japan for the latest installment of its Women in Music series, a project launched in 2022 to spotlight female artists, producers and executives whose work has shaped the industry and inspired others. The series is a key component of Billboard Japan’s Women in Music initiative.

The trio is scheduled to perform at Billboard Live Yokohama for Women In Music vol. 3 this October. Formed in 2019, Chilli Beans. reached a milestone with a show at Nippon Budokan in 2024. Each member — Moto, Maika and Lily — previously pursued solo singer‑songwriter careers; in this interview with Rio Hirai they reflect on the creative bond that grew from their collaboration and on the gendered expectations they encounter in Japan’s music world.

Have you changed since your 2019 debut, and what has stayed the same?

Maika: After releasing our fifth EP, the outside wind, in June, I realized the subjects I’m drawn to haven’t shifted much. I feel I’ve matured, though: my perspective has deepened while the essence of what I want to express remains intact.

Moto: I still tend to overthink at times, but increasingly I notice a steady loosening up — a gradual move toward feeling freer rather than more constrained.

Does being a three‑person band help you find that freedom?

Moto: Onstage we each have our own way of tuning in, and when those approaches meet, even the darker moods become part of our sound. What might feel negative in daily life can transform into something expressive and uniquely ours — and that sense of acceptance is freeing.

Do you share emotional highs and lows with one another?

Moto: Not in any planned way — it happens naturally. We often just notice how the others are and respond.

Maika: We pick up on little signals, like if someone seems off or unusually happy. The other two often offer perspectives I wouldn’t have found alone; what I might interpret as a flaw they might call “human” or “endearing,” and that reframing helps me move forward.

Has that exchange led to personal and artistic growth?

Maika: Yes. Our growth comes from broadening how we interpret experiences rather than changing who we are at the core.

Where does the name “Chilli Beans.” come from?

Lily: We wanted a name that reflected a band where everyone could shine. We used to cover Red Hot Chili Peppers, so “Chilli” nods to them, and “Beans” suggests we’re still growing — like seedlings with room to develop.

Maika: Choosing a name made us feel like a unified group.

How do you feel about being labeled a “girl band” in Japan?

Maika: When we introduce ourselves we say “three‑piece band,” but because we’re women people often file us under “girl band,” and that prompts reflection.

Moto: I don’t take it personally. We make music as people — we hope listeners connect with the songs and moments we create. How others classify us is ultimately their choice.

Do you encounter gendered expectations or rigid attitudes while working?

Maika: Stereotypes do exist. I’ve heard people dismissively say they’re “not into girl bands” before hearing us. I like to challenge those assumptions and invite people to actually listen, because music shouldn’t be limited by gendered preconceptions.

What matters most to you when you face difficulties?

Moto: It’s not technical skill but honest communication: saying how you truly feel and trying to understand others. When people are candid and connect, you can get through things together.

Lily: You can’t assume others feel the same way you do. It’s vital to express your own experience clearly and listen, because guessing at someone’s emotions can be harmful.

What advice would you give women who want to form a band?

Maika: Try it — even once. I auditioned and that led me here. Small steps compound over time, so start with songs you love and see where it goes.

Moto: Don’t be afraid to put your thoughts out into the world, even if some people don’t like them. Vulnerability can attract the right listeners who resonate with what you have to say.

Lily: Tell the people around you about your ambitions. Sharing your goals can help turn them into reality in unexpected ways.

This interview by Rio Hirai (SOW SWEET PUBLISHING) first appeared on Billboard Japan.