If there is one thing JPOP group Sexy Zone has learned to do since their formation in 2011, it’s adapt. Originally signed to Pony Canyon Records, the group consisted of Kento Nakajima, Kikuchi Fuma, Shori Sato, Sou Matsushima, and, Marius Yo. Their debut single, “Sexy Zone” was the anthem of the 2011 FIVB World Cup – which catapulted the group into the eyes, ears, and hearts of fans all over the world.

Since then the group has gone through several changes. In 2014 Yo and Matsushima took a break from the group, to train and help develop some of the junior groups under the company (Formerly Johnny & Associates). Both returned to the group in 2016 and they continued to enjoy incredible success.

In 2018, Matsushima was diagnosed with a panic disorder and took time to (rightfully) prioritize his mental health.

In 2020 the group separated from Pony Canyon and transitioned to Top J Records, a label created by Johnny & Associates (in partnership with Universal Music Japan) for Sexy Zone.

Later that year, Matsushima returned to the group but Yo, stepped away, also to manage his mental health. In 2022, he officially graduated from the group, to explore other opportunities and his personal growth. However, he’s always been honest and upfront about how much he loves the group and the fans.

Now, two years later, as the group changes names, they also bid farewell to a founding member, Kento Nakajima. An actor, Nakajima has started to carve out a bath of international success, which includes the upcoming Concordia series from Emmy Award winning, Game of Thrones producer Frank Doelger.

Like Yo, Nakajima is grateful to the group and the fans for allowing him to live his dreams. To him, as well as Yo, Sexy Zone just isn’t a group. It’s a family – and no matter where they go in life, they’ll always have a place to call home, I for one am excited to see where everyone goes.

To celebrate Nakajima’s graduation, the group did an instagram live, and then uploaded the video to YouTube. Filled with memories, musical performances, and a special appearance by Marius, it was a beautiful (albeit bittersweet) moment for fans and members alike. Many tears were shed.

More Kenty, Morę Marius, and more on the group soon so…

Stay Tuned!