As J-pop continues to gain global recognition, Japanese artists are making strides in international markets. Leading the charge is singer-songwriter Kenshi Younezu, who recently launched his first global tour, the JUNK World Tour. Following a successful, sold-out 16-date tour across Japan, Younezu made his highly anticipated U.S. debut, performing at Radio City Music Hall in New York and the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles.
Known for his distinctive mix of electronic and rock music, Younezu has garnered attention for his unique songwriting and captivating sound. He began his career in 2009 under the stage name Hachi, producing Vocaloid music. After transitioning to his real name, Kenshi Younezu, he began performing with his own voice, releasing numerous hits. His work on anime soundtracks, including “Peace Sign” from My Hero Academia and “Spinning Globe” from the Academy Award-winning The Boy and the Heron, has significantly boosted his international following. His 2022 single “KICK BACK,” which was featured as the opening theme for the anime Chainsaw Man, became his most successful release outside Japan. The song topped international charts and earned a Gold certification from the RIAA, marking the first time a song with Japanese lyrics reached this milestone in the U.S.
The excitement in Los Angeles was palpable as fans eagerly awaited Younezu’s debut performance. Upon entering the venue, attendees were greeted with large signs announcing strict bans on photography, recording, and glow sticks. While such rules are often met with resistance, they proved effective in allowing fans to fully immerse themselves in the experience without distractions. Fans had waited a long time to see Younezu live, and he certainly delivered.
The performance was a full-scale production, complete with a live band and dancers. The concert opened with a powerful performance of “RED OUT” from his latest album LOST CORNER, as red lights flooded the stage, setting a dramatic tone. Younezu’s live vocals were spot-on, matching the quality of his recorded material. His range was impressive, effortlessly shifting from soulful falsettos to deep, gritty growls. Even for those who didn’t understand Japanese, the music’s intricate chords and catchy melodies were enough to captivate.
Younezu, who also creates his own visuals for music videos and album covers, continued to showcase his artistic vision through stunning, cinematic visuals during the show. The 24-song setlist included a variety of hits, from upbeat electronic rock to emotional ballads. Crowd favorites like “Lemon” and “Sayonara, Mata Itsuka!” had fans singing along. A particularly emotional moment came during “Umi no Yuurei (Spirits of the Sea),” which was accompanied by images from the film Children of the Sea, leaving the audience in awe.
The energy in the venue reached a fever pitch as Younezu performed back-to-back hits, including “LOSER,” “KICK BACK,” and “Peace Sign.” Near the end of “KICK BACK,” Younezu grabbed a handheld camera, giving fans an up-close, personal view of his performance as they waved peace signs in the air during “Peace Sign.” Throwing it back to his Vocaloid roots, Younezu also performed “Donut Hole,” with the original music video playing in the background, telling a story about Vocaloids running a scrap metal collection business in a dystopian city.
Throughout the concert, Younezu spoke to the audience primarily in Japanese, though many fans wished for an English translation to better understand his words. His final message was especially emotional, as he dedicated the songs “Plazma” and “Lost Corner” to his late friend and Vocaloid pioneer, Wowaka, who passed away in 2019. “15 years ago, I was here with someone I considered my best friend in my entire life. He passed away about 5-6 years ago, and yesterday happened to be the anniversary of his passing. The next songs are dedicated to him. Would that be okay?” Younezu asked, his voice shaky with emotion. The crowd responded with a roar of applause and cheers, creating a heartfelt moment before he promised to return soon.
Kenshi Younezu’s U.S. debut left fans eager for more, as his combination of powerful music, personal storytelling, and artistic vision made for an unforgettable experience.
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