Naniwa Danshi is one of the hardest working acts under Johnny & Associates who, with the release of their highly-anticipated debut album, 1st Love, are ready to win the hearts of audiences around the world.
Let’s meet the guys!
Nishihata Daigo: As the center, he is the heart of the group and always thinking about ways they can give back and help other juniors succeed.
Onishi Ryusei: Laser-focused on the group’s success, his dedication is unyielding.
Michieda Shunsuke: An accomplished actor and model he is also a budding songwriter. He wrote the lyrics to the song “Time View” about the group’s journey and how much their friendship has meant to one another.
Takahashi Kyohei: As silly as he is handsome, he tries to keep the group’s spirits high and their smiles wide.
Nagao Kento: The youngest member of the group is a dream-filled designer who helps style the looks for their stage shows and music videos.
Fujiwara Joichiro: The eldest member of the group, is a constant source of support as he has been working for this moment since he was 8 years old.
Last but not least, Ohashi Kazuya: With his impeccable dance skills and vocal ability he is a natural leader, but never misses an opportunity to make everyone laugh.
Released on July 13th, 1st Love is available in three separate editions, each with little differences that will make fans want to collect them all.
Version 1 includes a Blu-ray disc of music video content and a full second album of 10 tracks from Naniwa Danshi’s Johnnys’ Jr days.
Version 2 includes a Blu-ray disc featuring almost the entire final performance of their first live Arena Tour at Osaka Castle Hall.
Version 3, a single disc, CD-only version, includes two bonus tracks: “Sincere”, and “Timeless Love”.
One thing Naniwa Danshi is known for is a cute, colorful, and playful stage presence and that same energy shines through on the album.
Opening with “Ubu LOVE” one of the themes of the 2021 television series My Love Mix-Up! (Kieta Hatsukoi), starring Michieda Shunsuke, the tone is set for an album filled with sugary-sweet songs that will warm their way into your heart and bounce around in your head for days. Even if Japanese is not your native language.
While each of the guys is incredibly talented individually (Ohashi is a vocal powerhouse) there is something truly special when the group harmonizes with one another and the album is guaranteed to lift your spirits.
Select songs are available digitally on the group’s official YouTube channel, and you can purchase physical copies of 1st Love and other Naniwa Danshi merchandise directly through online retailers like CDJapan, Yes Asia, and Johnny’s official store at Neokyo.com.
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With the recent announcement that the group had hit number one on the World Music Charts it’s clear Naniwa Danshi has what it takes to be the next big thing, so… stay tuned!
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