Otamatone: Fusing Toys and Instruments via Technology

An invention from Japan, the Otamatone is a cute, quirky, fun-to-play electronic musical toy with an eighth note-shaped body, adorable moving mouth, and silly, buzzy, amusingly off-key voice. Shaped as a friendly musical note, it is enjoyed by all ages. Simply press and/or slide your fingers up and down the touch-sensitive stem to play different notes. You can also squeeze the Otamatone’s “face” to create a “wah” effect and shake the stem to add vibrato. It comes in over 30 colorful designs.

Recently Daiki Nakata, the Senior Manager of Hamee US Corp, discussed this product vi an exclusive interview.

Meagan Meehan (MM): How did you initially get interested in technology, and when did you first encounter the Otamatone?

Daiki Nakata (DN): I’ve known about the Otamatone since I grew up in Japan, where it’s recognized as a unique musical toy. However, it wasn’t until I moved to the U.S. 10 years ago that I realized just how special it is in the American market. It’s not just a toy, but an amazing gateway into the world of music. During my time as a teacher for 1st and 5th graders in both the U.S. and Japan, I saw firsthand how the Otamatone can be a fantastic educational tool for music classes.

MM: This product comes in many different colors and patterns, so which are the most popular with consumers?

DN: The white and black signature colors are our best-sellers. However, we’ve also had great success with character collaboration models, like Hello Kitty, Kirby, and Gudetama, which are especially popular among collectors and fans of these characters.

MM: Be honest, which is your favorite Otamatone design/pattern?

DN: The Hello Kitty version is definitely my favorite! We’re honored to collaborate with such a world-famous character! Link to Hello Kitty Otamatone

MM: What do you think is the coolest thing about the Otamatone?

DN: The Otamatone serves multiple purposes — from being a playful toy to a legitimate musical instrument. It’s an ideal gift for anyone looking for something unique, and collectors love the character-themed models. But most importantly, it’s a perfect entry-level instrument for those who want to explore music. It’s great for school-aged kids and musicians alike who want to add something different to their repertoire.

MM: What has been some of the most memorable feedback that you’ve received about the Otamatone?

DN: We have a program that supports teachers by providing free Otamatones for use in schools and classrooms. When we receive photos and videos from the community showing the students engaging with the instrument, it makes me proud to be part of the Otamatone community. Link to Otamatone Music Support Program

MM: What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far?

DN: My first career in the U.S. was with Tokyo Otaku Mode, where I sold Otamatones on their website. When I later joined Hamee, I learned that they had become the exclusive distributor of Otamatone outside of Japan, and now we are the master licensor internationally. It feels like destiny that my career has come full circle, allowing me to reconnect with the Otamatone in the U.S. market.

MM: How do you envision Otamatone evolving over the next five years?

DN: I envision Otamatone becoming a starting point for people interested in music. It can be a fun and easy way for beginners to start learning, playing, and enjoying music. I’d love to see music schools offering Otamatone classes, or even incorporating them into orchestras and bands. It would be exciting to see the Otamatone play a larger role in different musical settings. In the next few years, I hope to see this growth come to life.

MM: What are your ultimate goals for the future and is there anything else you’d like to mention?

DN: I began my career as an elementary school teacher in both Japan and the U.S., teaching 1st and 5th graders. I truly believe the Otamatone has great potential as a fun and educational tool. With its versatility — whether as a musical instrument or a collectible — I see it bringing joy to even more people in the future. My goal is for Otamatone to continue spreading happiness and creativity.