ONE TAKE ONLY, ONE LIFE ONLY.
THE FIRST TAKE is a Japanese YouTube channel that invites singers to perform a song recorded in one take in a white studio. THE FIRST TAKE is a trademark of Sony Music Entertainment Japan.
THE FIRST TAKE started in November 2019 with a simple idea: singers perform in a white studio with just one microphone. They sing their hearts out in one go, no do-overs, even if they mess up. This captures a raw moment where artists give everything they’ve got to their music. Singers are encouraged by creative director Keisuke Shimizu to approach the filming as if it were a live performance.
The channel keeps things basic, focusing solely on the music. Recordings are top-notch, showing off the music’s true quality. Many artists also perform unique arrangements of their songs, exclusive to THE FIRST TAKE.
“A microphone and a white studio. And 1 rule. You’ve got 1 TAKE. Perform anything you like. Show us everything you’ve got for that 1 moment.“
By positioning the camera to show close-up angles from the side, every subtle movement of their mouths is evident, ensuring that nothing is missed – from their words to their breaths. The silence of the room further amplifies the experience, allowing the audience to hear even the slightest sounds like footsteps or clothes rustling, creating a sense of proximity with the singers. This unique filming technique contributes to a special ambiance that deeply engages the viewers, making them feel as though they are present with the performers.
Among our beloved STARTO talents, SixTONES was the first group to be featured on THE FIRST TAKE and did so with their debut song, “Imitation Rain.“
This version of “Imitation Rain” is also an exclusive arrangement for THE FIRST TAKE and brings the already sensational song to new heights. SixTONES’ vocals have been praised for their high technicality and emotion-driven performances for years, and this version only serves as a testament to why this group is so beloved and highly regarded by many.
Shortly after the feature of “Imitation Rain,” SixTONES was back on the channel with an arrangement of “Everlasting,“ yet another strong vocal performance that truly captivates the listener with the delicate delivery of the high notes and harmonies. For those who have attended their concerts, these arrangements are a great reminder of how simply gorgeous their live, raw vocals are.
SixTONES also performed “Kokkara” and “Kimi ga Inai” for THE FIRST TAKE.
In true SUPER EIGHT (previously Kanjani Eight) fashion, the ever-energetic and motivational group brings an exclusive performance of their song “Zukkoke Otoko Michi” reimagined with a band arrangement! Not only that, they also perform “Tomo yo.”
SUPER EIGHT is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024 and kicked off the new year as the first act to take the stage on THE FIRST TAKE. Since its debut in 2004, SUPER EIGHT has been steadily building on its legacy for two decades. As part of the 20th anniversary celebration, the group released its whole discography digitally.
They returned to THE FIRST TAKE with “Osaka Romanesque,” accompanied on the piano by Shinya Kiyozuka, who shares a close-knit relationship with the group. This extraordinary performance pulls on your heartstrings as it invokes nostalgia but showcases the skills they’ve nurtured over the past 20 years as a group.
Next in line from the STARTO family, it’s time for WEST.! to shine on the stage of THE FIRST TAKE. This highly anticipated performance by the beloved Kansai group will take place on Friday, April 12th at 22:00 JST. Make sure to mark your calendar and be there!
※ This post will be updated accordingly after WEST.’s performance is available.
In the meantime, enjoy WEST.’s own rendition of THE FIRST TAKE!
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