Every so often, something happens that lets you know your life is on the right track. Some call providence, others call it fate – but whatever you want to call it, this week, I had one of those moments. 

For the past year, I’ve been lucky enough to find myself connecting with Japanese-based entertainment company Johnny & Associates and several of the groups signed to them. In that time frame, I’ve come to have a very deep respect for the company and one of the groups I’ve become most fond of is Travis Japan. 

The members of Travis Japan, from left: Machu, Noel (top), Umi, Chaka, G (top), Shime, Shizu

Signed under the Johnnys’ Jr (trainee) umbrella. I’ve had the extreme privilege of watching them as they’ve worked on developing their craft here in Los Angeles and was even able to interview the group about their time on America’s Got Talent. 

AMERICA’S GOT TALENT — “Semi Finals 2” Episode 1717 — Pictured: Travis Japan — (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Now, it is my extreme pleasure to re-introduce them to you, not as a Jr. group, but as the newest unit to graduate. That’s right ladies and gentlemen, it’s been announced that Travis Japan will officially debut!!!

The announcement, which happened moments ago, will mean that (in addition to many other opportunities) Travis Japan will have their first music release under Capitol Records. Their debut single will be available on October 28th – and yes, I will be buying it.  

I am exceptionally excited to reveal that the single will be available GLOBALLY on all STREAMING platforms. They are the first group under Johnnys to have a digital debut. They’re blazing their own trail – and what a bright one it is turning out to be.

“The cherished goal of Travis Japan, a major debut, has finally come to fruition!” Group leader Chaka says with a smile as bright as the sun. “We are grateful for all those who have supported us, especially our fans! Now we embark ever further upon our Dreamy Journey to the world!”

I think it’s safe to say that each one of the group’s seven members are over the moon by the announcement. “Travis Japan will do it!” Genta Matsuda, who goes by “G” exclaimed excitedly. “We are going to achieve Johnny-san’s Dream!”

Every single one of the members of Travis Japan shares the same sentiment.  And every one of them are ready to show the world who they are and what they can do. “I hope to carve out across the world a new era as the unique challengers we of Travis Japan are.” Machu says with determination. 

We are realizing one dream,” Umi adds, “but we will keep going to the next.”

As a fan of the group, I am elated for them. I’ve worked in several aspects of the entertainment industry for a very long time, and I can honestly say that I have never met a group of people who have worked as hard as these seven guys have. “We now get to spread joy in the name of Travis Japan to all the world!” Shizu calls out.

They are also one of the most humble and some of the sweetest people you could ever hope to meet.  They deserve this and I for one am so excited to continue watching (and posting about) their journey. “We have but one life to live,” Noel says emotionally (they’re all understandably emotional) “and from the bottom of our hearts we are happy to be sharing ours for the happiness and dreams of all!”

One of the perks of being a debuted group under Johnnys is that they now get their own official YouTube page!

Capitol Records’ newest artist Travis Japan!

As Shime said “It’s Showtime for Travis Japan!!” So, stay tuned!