When it comes to J-pop, the Kansai (western) region stands out with its unique style. While these groups are serious about their craft, there’s a groovy sort of goofiness to their sound. A prime example is the KAMIGATA BOYZ, a supergroup of STARTO Talent currently featuring SUPER EIGHT, WEST., and Naniwa Danshi (なにわ男子).  Each of these groups, in their own right, represents a unique aspect of their hometown. SUPER EIGHT brings the fun, WEST. the humor, and Naniwa Danshi, the sparkly! 

By their powers combined,  KAMIGATA BOYZ is a fun, funny, and beautiful sonic experience that still incorporates the sex and sensuality that is the overarching appeal of J-pop. Basically, the group’s debut single “無責任でええじゃないかLOVE” (unofficial English translation:  “Isn’t Love Great with No Responsibility”) is everything I love about J-pop wrapped into one beautifully funny package. 

While in Japan, I  got the opportunity to see OSAKA up close and personal. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, and KAMIGATA BOYZ is the perfect representation of the region. 

I also got the chance to chat with SUPER EIGHT’s very own Shingo Murakami about the music and, of course, the region they represent. 

“There’s always a special connection between people from Kansai,” he starts pensively, “and the chance to bring three generations together to just mess around as Kansai idols was really special. “He starts to smile.  “We’ve done plenty of Kansai live shows before; after all, this all got started with the DREAM IsLAND 2020 → 2025 concert at the start of the pandemic, and to not only see all of us having persevered through all of that but also have a song and music video to share with the world makes it extra special now.”  

When it comes to the release of the absolute fun-fest of KAMIGATA BOYZ, and its Kansai sound, there’s no denying Murakami’s feelings.

“Being tied to the 2025 Osaka Expo, sharing this Kansai spirit with the world was, of course, a big part of the personal appeal too.” Murakami beams with pride. “SUPER EIGHT was the Japan cultural ambassador at the 2020 World Expo in Dubai, and our kohai Ae! group joined the promotional campaign back when Osaka was officially announced, so we’re all aware of the responsibility of representing who we are on a global scale come next year, and doing such through the entertainment power of this KAMIGATA BOYZ project and everything we have planned going forward, including the participation of the younger Kansai groups, is a big part of that.”

Available on all digital retailers, 無責任でええじゃないかLOVE will soo also receive a limited physical release dropping on 28 July. The single has already SOLD OUT on CD Japan. 

There will be more music, more STARTO, and more KAMIGATA BOYZ soon, so… 

Stay Tuned!