Japanese Breakfast Gives an Outstanding Performance of ‘Paprika’ on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’

Michelle Zauner performs under the stage name Japanese Breakfast, delighting fans with their performance of “Paprika” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on July 8. “Paprika” is the opening track to Jubilee, Zauner’s third studio album released on June 4. Zauner performed live from the Sellersville Theater in Pennsylvania.

Jimmy Kimmel Live! had been guest-hosted by Wanda Sykes, a highly acclaimed actress, and comedian. Sykes introduced Zauner by showing off the colorful cover art and Jubilee vinyl. Zauner is seen wearing a stunning white dress and pigtail braids. Zauner is backed by a full band comprised of horns, violinists, and drummers. Zauner hits a gong throughout the performance, and at one point, solos off with a saxophonist.

The performance is compelling, as Zauner soars through the song sonically and vocally. Zauner performing “Paprika,” coupled with the lights and dress, shows just how ethereal it all is.

Ohhhh it’s a rush!@JimmyKimmelLive https://t.co/NoYh3F5eRb

— Japanese Breakfast (@Jbrekkie) July 8, 2021

Zauner’s Jubilee had been a follow-up to Soft Sounds from Another Planet, their second studio album from 2017. Over the last five years, Zauner has successfully put out three records, and this time Jubilee strays away from the past themes from their previous two albums. Zauner no longer wanted to be the “poster child” for grief, as grief is different for everyone. They wanted to write about joy, especially finding joy in the little things.

happy @Jbrekkie release day! listen to jubilee as soon as possible – it’s one of the best things to come out in a long time. just beautiful

— jackantonoff (@jackantonoff) June 4, 2021

Jubilee comes a few months after Zauner’s New York Times best-selling memoir, Crying in H Mart. The memoir explores Zauner’s coping with their mother’s tragic death with a terminal illness and their upbringing in Oregon. It has also been revealed that Zauner’s memoir has been given the green light to begin production as a film.

Many have praised Jubilee, such as Jeff Tweedy of Wilco. He performed a stripped-back version of “Kokomo, IN,” Zauner’s favorite track off the album. Zauner had been so surprised; They shared the beautiful cover on their social media. They then thanked Tweedy, one of their musical heroes.

Zauner has been having an incredible 2021 so far, and it keeps getting better. Zauner will be embarking on a very special tour in support of Jubilee. Be sure to stream the album on all music platforms. Tickets to Zauner’s tour can be found here.