Shihori releases survival anthem inspired by childhood bullying

Billboard-charting Japanese singer-songwriter SHIHORI released “When I Decided Not To Die” on June 5, a personal single built around her childhood decision to live after severe bullying pushed her toward suicide. The track leads her upcoming second U.S. album, ESCALATION, due this summer.

Why it matters: - SHIHORI is turning a deeply personal survival story into a public message about mental health, resilience and self-acceptance. - The single arrives as Mental Health Awareness Month closes, which gives the release added context and urgency. - “When I Decided Not To Die” also serves as the lead single for SHIHORI’s next U.S. album, ESCALATION, expected this summer.

What happened: - SHIHORI announced the release of “When I Decided Not To Die,” which arrived June 5. - The song draws from a childhood moment when severe bullying led SHIHORI to the brink of suicide, followed by a decision to keep living. - The track is framed as an anthem of survival and rebirth. - The refrain centers on “Ikitai,” the Japanese phrase for “I want to live.” - The release is available to listen to as the new single.

The details: - The song pairs a delicate piano motif with an upbeat pop arrangement. - The contrast in sound mirrors lyrics about trauma, survival and hope. - SHIHORI worked with mixing engineer Yoad Nevo, whose credits include Sia and Pet Shop Boys. - SHIHORI said the experience of childhood pain became “a scar of honor” that shaped her message to “Love who you are.” - SHIHORI said she hopes the song helps people who are struggling now and reminds them they can rise again.

Between the lines: - The release extends SHIHORI’s shift from behind-the-scenes writer to full artist identity. - SHIHORI has built much of her career on cross-cultural work that bridges Japanese and Western pop audiences. - The single’s message fits a broader pattern in SHIHORI’s work: personal identity, recovery and belonging.

What’s next: - SHIHORI’s second U.S. album, ESCALATION, is slated for release this summer. - The album is likely to expand on the themes of resilience and self-acceptance introduced in the single. - SHIHORI is continuing to present herself as a Los Angeles-based artist working across Eastern and Western music cultures.

The bottom line: - SHIHORI’s new single turns a childhood crisis into a statement of survival and a launch point for her next album.