In the vibrant universe of Japan’s music scene, there exists a constellation of talent that captivates the soul and ignites the imagination. Among these shining stars, one group stands out—not just for their music, which has, throughout the years, carefully captivated thousands of people, but also for the emotions it evokes and the journey they have taken.
This group is Sexy Zone – a radiant beacon of passion and resilience, guided by the tender strings of fate and the echoes of their shared dreams. Currently managed under Over the Top Records, a label established by STARTO Entertainment and Universal Music Japan, the current group is now embarking on a new era in the anthem of their collective spirit.
A new name, a new form, and a new path for the group awaits. But their dreams still remain.
Through the years…
Formed in 2011 as a five-member group – Kento Nakajima, Kikuchi Fuma, Shori Sato, Sou Matsushima, and Marius Yo, and releasing their debut single under the same name as their group, Sexy Zone has been together for over a decade.
In the halls of the Imperial Theatre, where dreams take flight, they sang “Sexy Zone” for the first time. It’s not merely a song but a hymn of empowerment, resonating across continents as the anthem of the 2011 FIVB World Cups, their voices becoming the heartbeat of a global community.
Yet, the journey was not without its trials. In the tempest of 2014, a new form of the group emerged. Members Sou and (former member) Marius Yo were split from the group, set to lead a set of younger talents and improve their own skills simultaneously. Thus, making the formation a 3v2 one. For a few years, it was unsure whether this formation was the final one for the group.
However, with the single “Colorful Eyes,” Sexy Zone returned to their activities as a five-member group and their strongest era began.
The journey of Sou’s hiatus and subsequent return to the group Sexy Zone was a pivotal moment for both him and the group. In 2018, Sou’s diagnosis of panic disorder led to a necessary pause in his career as he prioritized his mental health. During this period, the remaining members of Sexy Zone continued to promote as a four-member group, demonstrating their resilience and dedication to their craft.
In 2020, following a nine-year collaboration under Pony Canyon, the group moved to Top J Records, a label created by their agency in partnership with Universal Music Japan specifically for Sexy Zone. Their first release under Top J Records was the single “RUN.” Sexy Zone continues to be the only group or artist associated with this label.
Following his hiatus, Sou made a gradual return to the spotlight in 2020, amidst the challenges posed by the global pandemic. His cautious approach, not fully participating in all group activities, reflected a balanced and considerate re-entry into the public eye. The online tour “POP x STEP TOUR” became the official platform for Sou’s comeback, where he courageously showcased his talent, even though he limited his performances to two songs per show.
This period not only marked a personal and important moment for Sou as a person but also served as a testament to the unwavering support of his fellow Sexy Zone members and the loyalty of his and their fans. Everyone always believed that the group would return to its original five-member form.
Upon Sou’s return in December of that year, Marius Yo took a hiatus to prioritize his mental and physical well-being as well as focus on his academic pursuits. Sexy Zone was back to one member less, continuing their journey as four. During this time, the group released a commemorative compilation album to mark their 10-year anniversary, albeit without Marius.
Two years after Marius’ start of his hiatus, he ultimately decided to graduate from the group and set upon a new path. Marius expressed his desire for a new path in life while conveying his deep affection for the group members and fans.
Despite the hurt and storm of feelings surrounding the graduation, the group and their fans stood strong and persevered. Sexy Zone might be four but it never meant they ran away from their initial path.
But the bonds are not broken. The members continuously show off on their Instagrams how they keep in contact, and fans are constantly reminded of how much the members treasure each other and their history together. In their tour “Chapter II,” they kept referencing Marius in their goods, adding an emotional touch and respect to their youngest.
Once again, Sexy Zone finds itself at a turning point. In October 2023, the group revealed their intention to change their name, citing difficulties with overseas promotions and online searchability. However, at the time, they did not disclose the new name or the timeline for this change.
On January 8th, it was announced that Kento Nakajima would depart from the group following the upcoming name change, scheduled for March 31st.
And here we are. March 31st.
To many, this graduation is more than just bittersweet. It holds years of promises and dreams that have been accumulated over the years. The group has already gone through many formations, unspoken promises, and uncertainties, and while this is no different, the love for the group remains.
There is no doubt in anyone that whatever the future holds for the group and Kento on his coming solo journey, the times with Sexy Zone have been nothing less than spectacular.
We shared tons of memories, laughter, and tears with the group. We have grown up alongside the members and nurtured each of them like a family member. We’ve fallen in love, broken up, gotten back together, and faced various challenges together.
Sexy Zone is more than just a group. They are a place called home.
No matter how long you’ve been a fan or how much you’ve supported the group or any member, Sexy Zone brings you home. They welcome you with open arms and let you be pulled away into the world of their craft.
The new journey is the result of their resilience and devotion. They have done nothing but face each challenge thrown at them, emerging stronger and more determined than before with each time. They’re not running away. They’re always running forward.
Even among the sea of uncertainties, the support from their fans remains unwavering and unconditional.
Facing forward, things will be looking different, that’s for sure. This change, this new era – a new chapter, is something that each person will have to embrace on their own, at their own pace. It is not an easy one to embrace and accept.
But knowing the bonds between the members, they won’t be easily broken, as already proven by their current bond with Marius. Their paths might be separated, and they might be going through different doors in life, but ultimately, they still share the same dream.
“君の過去も今も未来も 何もかも引っ張り出して
Summon your past, present and future, all of it
困難な問題も難題も挑んで ここでやめんな やめんなよ”
Use it to overcome trials and tribulations, don’t give up here, don’t quit now
The final live
The final livestream was aired on every platform connected to Sexy Zone – FAMILY CLUB Online (FC members only), YouTube, the group’s official Instagram, and every member’s own Instagram as well.
The public livestream is available on their YouTube channel until the end of June. The FC member-only part will be uploaded to the FC site at a later date.
As for the livestream, the members appeared in their silver jackets adorned with glitter and black turtlenecks, the same outfits they wore when Marius graduated from the group, adding yet another emotional impact to the atmosphere. The stage backdrop featured all of their single and album jacket photos that they have released up until now.
The setlist for the performances in the livestream was put together and based on the survey they sent out to their fanclub members earlier. They performed popular songs consecutively, starting from their debut song “Sexy Zone” to “RUN” and “Gyutto.”
During “Gyutto,” Fuma Kikuchi made a funny face that only the members could see while Kento was singing, causing the oldest to burst into laughter along with the viewers. This kind of antics, especially between the two oldest, are a big part of why they are so loved. They have never been afraid to show every side of them on stage, allowing anyone who watches them to feel a sense of transparency and genuineness from the group.
They reminisced about past photos and memories they’ve experienced when Marius surprised everyone by appearing on screen through an online call. As he joined in the reminiscing, including memories from their last “5-member trip,” it created a warm and nostalgic atmosphere unique to the five of them.
To the fans, this is the Sexy Zone that everyone came to love. Even if the form had been different for a while, the moment they were five again, it was as if nothing had changed at all. Their bickering and bantering were just like a few years ago, and it is really a moment that you wish would never end.
It is bittersweet and tugs at the heartstrings, knowing that this is not the norm and that this reunion, despite how lovely it is, is just a fleeting moment.
The contrast between the sweetness of the moment and the tug of longing for it to last is palpable. It’s a poignant reminder that life’s most precious moments are often fleeting, leaving an indelible impact on our hearts, something that many of us might still refuse to accept. There’s a unique beauty in appreciating the present while acknowledging its impermanence, for it teaches us to cherish every passing moment.
Then, they performed “puzzle,” their last single as a four-member group, followed by a medley including hits like “Natsu no Hydrangea” and “With you,” the first song they sang as the predecessor of “Sexy Zone“.
After the medley, each member gave a speech of gratitude and love about the group and its future.
Matsushima So Speech
“To everyone watching the live stream, thank you very much. We’ve been active under the name Sexy Zone since 2011, and first and foremost, I’d like to express my gratitude to everyone who knows Sexy Zone and everyone who is watching this. Thank you very much. Your presence allows us to stand on stage like this, and we often convey this sentiment during live performances and various other places.
But standing on stage just now, I felt that very strongly once again. Although we are graduating from the name Sexy Zone today, I hope you will continue to support each of our activities in the future. I also hope to become an artist who can receive more and more support from everyone, so I truly appreciate each and every one of you, and I will continue to do my best.“
Sato Shori Speech
“Sexy Zone was formed on November 29, 2011. It’s been about 12 years since then, and we’ve reached this day today. We’ve received a lot of love and support. I’m trying to speak calmly because I feel like I might cry a little, but Sexy Zone has experienced various things.
When I look back on how much time we spent together as five, it’s a bit… The period that made me feel a little lonely, even though it’s not anyone’s fault, it was really just a matter of timing. But we loved being together as five the most, and I think we were able to convey that to the fans who love the five of us, and I don’t think there were any lies in those 12 years. I feel like we really made Sexy Zone together with everyone.
I’m truly grateful to all the fans. And I want to express my gratitude to the staff who created this place for us and brought us this far. We had a lot of individual personalities, and sometimes we were a group of five who didn’t always get along, but I’m grateful that we were able to create something fun together and run together to this point.
Today marks the end of Sexy Zone for now, but from tomorrow, we’ll each be moving forward on our own paths, solo and as a group. So, I hope we can support each other first and foremost, and I hope we can share fun times together again with everyone. For now, thank you very much, Sexy Zone.”
Kikuchi Fuma Speech
“Then, in order, let me give my greetings. This time, with the name Sexy Zone changing, and along with Nakajima-san’s departure. We had discussions and preparation periods, so I was able to organize my thoughts internally, but I feel like for the fans, it was really a tumultuous three months, you know?
Since the announcement was made just two months ago. Even this live stream wasn’t decided at that time. I feel like it made everyone feel really sad, anxious about what will happen in the future. I’m truly sorry for that. However, this is truly our positive decision.
Also, it’s not just about Nakajima leaving, but also about the name Sexy Zone changing, we, the four of us, and Marius, who I think is still watching, we all agreed that this is graduation from the group called Sexy Zone. So, it’s our decision for each of us to move forward to the next stage, the next step, in our own way.
From now on, as our sincere effort, I hope we can engage in activities that make everyone believe this decision was the right one. But really, we’ve had so many dreams come true. We’ve been to so many places, done so many live performances, even had dome concerts together as five. Dome concerts.
We used to say that back when we were 15, 16 years old, and to think that graduation from Sexy Zone would come so soon after that. It might have been something we couldn’t even imagine back then. But we will continue to strive to be even better than imagined, so please continue to support us in the future. Thank you very much.”
Nakajima Kento Speech
“I’m sorry. I’m feeling really pumped up and sweating a lot right now… Anyway, as the group, this is the last time I’ll be sweating like this. This time, since the middle of last year, we’ve had many discussions on how we can spend time together in a way that allows each of us to grow, and through those discussions, we each found our own answers as a group. So, I’m truly grateful that we were able to prepare this online live for everyone promptly. To all the fans who are watching this online live, and to everyone who has an interest in Sexy Zone, I sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope our last performance reaches everyone’s hearts. For me, this is the last time today, so a little bit…”
Kento, who is graduating from the group on this day, March 31st, then gave heartfelt messages to each member individually.
“Alright, first up, So-chan. Thanks a lot, really. We’ve spent so much time together since we were kids, riding trains and all. And remember those times we went to sushi restaurants or had barbecues? I never expected you’d pursue the path of classical literature, becoming an artist. It was kind of surprising, to be honest. Over these 12 years, witnessing someone’s growth up close like this has been a valuable experience for me. Seeing you becoming so strong as an idol, I’ve always felt motivated not to fall behind. I truly respect you as an idol, So-chan. Let’s go see some classical literature performances together again sometime.”
“And Shori-chan. We’ve been through a lot together since “With you,” haven’t we? From performances at the Imperial Theater to those times when it was just the two of us working on choreography, almost like we were back at the beginning of Sexy Zone. We tried out various choreographies even before the chorus moves of Sexy Zone changed. Those moments, you know, you can’t spend them anywhere else but in this company if you want to grow. So seeing you now, giving this speech, talking like this, it’s like, wow, you’ve really grown up, man. You’re doing great on stage now. You were the center of Sexy Zone, but now, go and take the center stage of the world. I want to keep up with you, and I’ll always be cheering for you.“
When addressing Fuma, with whom he had been active as shinme1 since they joined the agency back in 2008, merely 7 days apart, Kento shed tears that had been threatening to spill for a while. Prior to the formation of Sexy Zone, the two of them were also members of the unit B.I.Shadow, and back then, also led the Juniors together as the front running pair for a while. Their history together as FumaKen holds more significance to the two of them than they probably are aware of.
With a choking voice and tear-stained face, Kento said, “It’s the end, huh. You’ve been with me the longest. Truly, within these 16 years, I think all the times, whether I really hated you or loved you, were my youth. Among the members, you were close in age, almost the same age, and because you were there, I became stronger. Honestly. So, I’m really grateful to everyone. Let’s continue to work hard together, We properly did our best, like when we hosted variety shows like ゴールデンタイム and when the two of us went for a meal together. Starting tomorrow, we’ll be friends again, not members. Since we met in April 2008, I’m really glad we’ve been able to run together to this point. Thank you.”
In response, Fuma also expressed his feelings, saying, “Thank you so much too. Nakajima and I entered at the same time. We both entered in April 2008, but he was actually a week ahead of me. However, if I hadn’t met Nakajima, I probably wouldn’t have debuted. There were times when I was close to giving up, and we went through frustrating times together. Of course, there were times when we liked each other and times when we didn’t. But somewhere deep down, especially during our Junior days, we both thought, “I don’t want to lose to this guy.” We went through our junior days with that mindset, and even after becoming a group, the fact that we’ve come this far in a different kind of rivalry relationship is probably because Nakajima was my partner, my counterpart in our world. If it weren’t for Nakajima, I might have gone off track somewhere, never debuted, and wouldn’t have been able to do the various jobs I have now and have done. So, I’m really glad I met Nakajima. Looking back, it was all fun.”
He paused with a smile before continuing, “So, I wanted to support him in going solo, and maybe even from the perspective of the fans or the staff, they might have said (to me), ‘No, you should stop him,’ but I couldn’t stop him. Because once the music starts playing, I can understand his condition. You can’t stop someone’s decision like that. But if we’re going to do it, we’ll do it without losing to anyone, in Nakajima Kento’s style. Just like him, I’ll do my best, and we’ll do our best without losing.”
The tension between them is visible, and the way that the two of them can’t look at each other only speaks volumes of the amount of respect they have for each other. It’s not about not wanting to break down in front of each other but to further emphasize the unique relationship they have built and nurtured over the years. Despite the differences and clashes they’ve had, the fact remains that they are the strongest because they’ve accepted each other like this.
Words are not enough to express the bonds FumaKen has. The bond that they all have in the group.
Holding roses symbolizing Sexy Zone, they ended their public performance livestream with “Congratulations.” They closed the curtain on the “graduation ceremony” with their handwritten signatures and messages displayed on the screen.
From here on, it was the Fan Club members’ only part, and everyone watching didn’t want it to end. The end is drawing near but for a little longer, everyone wanted to stay and bask in the bliss of Sexy Zone, knowing that once the livestream is over, the end of Sexy Zone’s era had come.
They then featured a deeply touching and emotionally charged rendition of their song “Filter Goshi ni Mita Sora no Ao” (フィルター越しに見た空の青) (Trans: The blue sky I saw through a filter). The sincerity and passion with which Sexy Zone always delivers this song resonated with the viewers, bringing them back into the embrace of nostalgia.
“With you… the sky I saw through a filter was blue
— Filter Goshi ni Mita Sora no Ao (フィルター越しに見た空の青)
Yeah… I whispered next to you, “I’m glad we’re together”
Love you… Tears of joy ran down my cheeks
Love you… You smiled a little when you saw that
Always… There was warmth that couldn’t be captured on film
There were views I no longer couldn’t see without you
If the wind gently untangles our hair, today too
I feel like I can believe in miracles, Stay together”
The song was first performed in their concert XYZ=repaiting as five members and has since been a staple song, encouraging us to believe that no matter what, they’ll stay together. The memories will remain, the dreams will still be chased, and just like looking back on a photograph, they will always be there.
Even if the memories, feelings, and experiences we have shared with the group might be hard to capture on film and keep as treasured keepsakes, Sexy Zone has given us so much. The journey we’ve embarked on with them has been filled with laughter, tears, and moments that have shaped us in ways we never imagined.
From their infectious energy on stage, chaotic behind the scenes and bonus footages, to the heartfelt messages they convey through their music, Sexy Zone has become an integral part of our lives, providing a source of inspiration and joy. Their impact resonates far beyond the entertainment realm, reaching into the depths of our hearts and souls.
If anyone tried to convince themselves that they had been crying enough already, they were wrong. The group had one more surprise for the viewers.
Marius came running onto the stage to join the other four.
Once more.
We got to see Sexy Zone as five once more since Marius graduated.
They celebrated Marius’ birthday (March 30th) together on screen with a cake, and their interactions and everything were back to how it was years ago as if the years until now had been a hazy dream.
Even with the group performing as four, Sexy Zone has always been and always will be five. The members themselves have assured everyone of this, and while it is bittersweet to know that we’re stepping into a new era, it is a relief that they feel the same as their fans.
As if to make a full-circle moment, the five of them perform their debut song “Sexy Zone” together. This is where everything began, and this is how it’ll ultimately end.
Even if Kento graduating from the group marks the end of their era as Sexy Zone, but knowing who he is – our Kento Nakajima, who has worked so hard non-stop with countless projects to promote not only himself but also Sexy Zone, the sky’s the limit.
Our Kento Nakajima, who spread the word of “Sexy Thank You” to the world just so we would never forget who they are. Our Kento Nakajima, who we love and adore for all the right reasons.
It’s his time to embark on a new journey with a new bag in hand, destinations unknown, but his home will remain the same.
There’s no one out there who doubts his or the remaining members’ success because they remain the same—they are still them.
A new name, new formation: Their essence remains unchanged —a testament to the unbreakable bonds of brotherhood and the eternal melody of their shared dreams.
And last…
To anyone reading this, it’s okay to not be okay. There will be a day when you feel “okay” again. I know that I, years after Marius‘ graduation, am still not okay.
To Shori, I can’t think of anyone better suited to be the center of Sexy Zone, and I want to thank you for always being there, for always being just right. Your existence is so important, and with Sexy Zone, they bring out the best of you.
To So-chan, you are sunshine in the form of a human, and you are so precious. Your smile heals every wound I feel, and your laughter brings me back from the darkness. I want you to know that you deserve everything in the universe. You are strong and resilient and someone I look up to immensely.
To Marius, once again, thank you. お疲れマリウス。Things have not been easy through the years, and I love seeing the way you thrive nowadays. Your smile hasn’t changed, and I am sure that no matter what comes your way, you’ll be able to face it proudly. You inspire me and make me chase my dreams.
To Kento, if not for you, I wouldn’t have come to love Sexy Zone. I remember when I first saw you and Fuma in “Scrap Teacher” and how you immediately charmed me. I respect you so much, and I know that you will be able to make a name for yourself in the world from now on. The road will be long and tough, but if there’s anyone who can do it, it is you. Your English studies have paid off, and there’s certainly more to come. You’ll charm the world and show them exactly who “Nakajima Kento” is. So, honestly, Sexy Thank You.
To Fuma, words are not enough to describe the feelings I am battling right now, and you’d probably make a joke if you saw my ugly crying. But that’s okay. You could bully me to no end, and I would still say, ‘Thank you.‘ You’ve been someone that I have come to love not only as an idol but also as a person. Your artistry as an idol is impeccable and inspiring, but most importantly of all: your words hold so much power. Whether it is a speech teetering along the lines of an emotional breakdown or a series of jokes, your words impact me. They resonate with me. There’s a raw honesty and courage in the way you speak and deliver your words, and that deserves respect. From how you have always protected Sexy Zone in your own way, cared for the younger members, clashed and harmonized with Kento, to now also producing and taking care of other Juniors… It’s all so powerful. Words are not enough, but if I were to be reborn, I would fall for you again and again. 裏切っても傷つけても、信じてまた愛をくれたね。
To Sexy Zone, これからも、いつまでも。You’re the best. You’re my home.
We’ll continue to run forward.
- “Shinme” (シンメ) is from シンメトリー (“symmetry”) and initially referred to performers dancing symmetrically in the mathematical sense, like a mirror-image. More often than not, it refers to pairs of idols who have been paired since the start of their careers. ↩︎
I’ve cried…not when watching the live because my emotions hadn’t caught up with me yet… But I cried when I watched the video the 2nd time.
then, I cried again when I watched the video the third time while listening to their speech properly (my Japanese still isn’t good so I could only grasp a little bit of it)
And then I read this article…and I thought I had no more tears left but you made me cry again 😭
this article was amazing, and your message to the members at the end describes my feels about them as well ❤️🩹
I left a comment earlier but I did something and my comment is gone 🥲 I’ll try to rewrite from memory (hopefully it doesn’t appear twice)
—-
When I watched the live, my emotions hadn’t caught up with me so I didn’t cry… But, when I watched it again, I cried. And then cry again watching it the third time. Especially during their speech, and when Kenty couldn’t hold in his tears by time he got to Fuma.
And like… When I read this, Sabina, I thought I had no more tears left but you made me cry again. Like, my Japanese is still not that good but I understood some of it and could piece some parts together so that I could understand….but when I read the translation you provided, I just started crying again omg 😭😭
This article is so well written, and your message to the members describe my feels as well ❤️🩹
Thank you for reading 😭🥺 it all feel so surreal still…