Frappuccinos vanilla and strawberry. That was how it all began. Maybe that's how most things in the world of Britney Spears begins. Takashi Murakami knows Britney! The Warhol of Japan knows the pop princess of the United States, two major pop icons and two different cultures collided - a combination that made the paradise of Pop.
In downtown Los Angeles at Milk Studios, ask us for hundreds of things. Asked us to buy the largest possible number of white flowers. We decided that white chrysanthemums would be a great idea, but when they arrived they told us that in Japan they symbolize mourning. A rush to the florist solved it.
Britney arrived quietly, with the team behind. A blonde girl and educated southern congratulated the team and then went straight to work. They showed her a large number of wedding dresses, and she was in her world. As a child, she played dress, dancing to Madonna, as she asked, was played throughout the day. Jamie Spears walked through the corridors, the entrepreneurs were reading past issues of Pop, the assistant got the Black Berry.
The next to arrive was Takashi, who brought toys Kaikai Kiki, his company, and Britney loved it. He also brought Japanese textbooks, and a Hello Kitty phone with which Britney was joking. Inspired by artist-sleeved Seiji Matsuyama, Murakami wanted to turn Britney into a girls' manga, one angelic, yet sexy, half-vulnerable, but strong inside.
On set, there was a technology that would make Steve Jobs proud, iPad, iPods, MacBooks. Britney has even used Twitter during his makeup. Murakami was intrigued - he's an obsessive fan-social network, with over 20,000 followers. But until then Britney won the world when it comes to followers - it is one of the most followed, with more than 5,500 million followers.
Five hours later, caffeine and white flowers, got what we wanted. Britney Murakami and published a photo of both on Twitter, and news of the collaboration was sent to the world.
What have you been doing lately?
"I just do my clothing line with Candie's, which was pretty cool. I also created a new perfume called Radiance, due out this autumn. Also, I'm spending time with my kids and relaxing. Writing here and there, but trying to take my time."
What did you think of working with Takashi?
"I loved working with him, especially as he incorporated the couture-style sleeve. We look at many characters from manga, so I have an idea of what he wanted. It was one of the most interesting photo essays I've ever done. He is a genius!"
Have you been in Japan? "I was in Japan on my last promotional tour and loved it. People there are very respectful. Wish I had had more time to explore the country. I was all the time in Tokyo because I was presenting there. I hope to return soon and learn more."
What did you like Japanese culture? "I visited some old temples in Tokyo, they were beautiful. I was amazed that these ancient temples were surrounded by the modern city. It was very beautiful."
His sexuality is a way you feel powerful? "I think my confidence is what makes me feel powerful, and that my sexuality also comes from my confidence."
Takashi child chose a character instead of a grown woman. You think people still see you as a little girl? "Early in my career I think so, but I grew up, my fans and my music also grew."
Have any famous blonde who inspire you? "Marilyn Monroe."
You are a people with more followers on twitter. What do you think?
"I am blessed with the most amazing, loyal, loving and passionate fans of the planet and I thank every day. They are the reason for my success."
Tell us five things legal in Los Angeles "The weather, shopping, restaurants, beaches. Creative people and a vibe legal to work."
And five things not so nice "There is so much smoke. The traffic, smoke, and the paparazzi. That's it."
Lady Gaga calls you and asks for a collaboration. What do you say?
"I am a big fan of it! Anything is possible."
What are your five favorite pop albums? "It's a difficult question and the answer would change every day. I love Purple Rain by Prince, Michael Jackson's Thriller, True Blue by Madonna, Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation and #1s Mariah Carey."
What is your favorite holiday? "Christmas is the best! I love seeing my kids opening the presents."
Last question, Britney. What do you most admire in a partner? "Trust and loyalty."
