On 28 September 2022 it was announced that the seven unique tigers of Travis Japan would finally receive an official debut. Signed to Capitol Records/Universal Music Worldwide, this marked the culmination of a decade’s worth of hard work and dedication – and every member was overjoyed.
Johnny Kitagawa, founder of Japan’s most prominent male idol factory and curator of idol culture, created Travis Japan to be unlike any group before them. His vision was for them to become a truly global phenomenon. Sadly, Kitagawa passed away in 2019 before seeing his dream realized. However, his legacy lives on through the groups he created – especially Travis Japan.
💃 GETTING INTO THE GROOVE 🕺
“The cherished goal of Travis Japan, a major debut, has finally come to fruition!” group leader Chaka exclaimed in an interview, his smile as bright as the sun. “We’re grateful for all those who have supported us, especially our fans! Now we embark further on our Dreamy Journey to the world.”
“Travis Japan will do it!” Genta ‘G’ Matsuda exclaimed excitedly. “We’re going to achieve the dream of our agency’s founder.”
“I hope to carve out a new era worldwide as the unique challengers we are,” Machu added
Shaking his head, Umi continued, “We’re realizing one dream, but we’ll keep going to the next.”
“We now get to spread joy in the name of Travis Japan to the world!” Shizu cried out with his signature laugh.
After a moment of quiet contemplation, Noel, the group’s most senior member, spoke up, his voice breaking with emotion. “We have but one life to live, and from the bottom of our hearts, we’re happy to share ours for the happiness and dreams of all.”
With an effervescent giggle Shime reached over to pat the shoulder of his friend. “It’s showtime for Travis Japan!” He added and the entire group nodded in agreement.
🎶 THE RHYTHM OF SUCCESS 🎵
Released on 28 October 2022, ” ｢JUST DANCE!｣ embodies the group’s motto, “Just Dance Together.” This energetic track inspires listeners to let go of their worries and dance, no matter who they are, where they are, or how they’re feeling.
A digital single, the song also received two remixes.
JUST DANCE! (tofubeats Remix) incorporates a sort of 90s Rock R&B sound to this mix.
JUST DANCE! (Yaffle Remix) has a super chill – totally LA sort of groove to it.
🎶SPINNING THE TRACK🎙️
｢JUST DANCE!｣ debuted at #5 on Billboard’s Global charts and doing what they were made to, became the first Japanese act to break into the top five with a debut single since the chart’s inception. They also hit number 1 on Japan’s Oricon charts.
But the debut is just the beginning and with their first step toward a brave new journey, Travis Japan was ready to take on anything and everything that sought to disrupt their road to authenticity.
There will be more Travis Japan soon so… Stay Tuned!
Life In Cartoon Motion 