Hey! Say! JUMP‘s member Ryosuke Yamada is blazing a new trail with his first-ever solo original album, โRED,โ released on April 16th. To commemorate this major milestone, he launched his solo tour, Ryosuke Yamada LIVE TOUR 2025 RED, giving fans across Japan a chance to witness a more personal and expressive side of him on stage.
I had the pleasure of being able to go on the second date of the tour, in Shizuoka, and am excited to share a report about it for Dumpling Box.
Just before the start of the show, the venue was dyed out in red lights, referring to the name of the tour: RED. The stage layout featured a main stage connected by a catwalk to a center stageโsetting the tone for a show designed to bring Yamada closer to his fans.
Yamada started the show singing โRED,” and the moment Yamada appeared, the audience erupted in cheers. As he performed the opening number, the venue lit up in a sea of red penlightsโhis member color
He then followed with the song โCARNIVAL,โ a playful performance featuring a cane and dynamic choreography with dancers tossing a ball, transforming the stage into a lively, festive spectacle. It truly felt like being at a carnival.
Next came “INTO YOU,” a groovy number, and the guitar sound is impressive, and the refreshing rhythm gets you in the groove.
After this opening burst, there was a short pause so Yamada could interact with the fans. He was having a good time looking at the fans in the venue and then having them scream. He had an angel-like smile, and you could tell he was embarrassed.
He continued with โOh! My Darlingโ, a sweet and charming solo first released as a B-side on Hey! Say! JUMPโs Lucky-Unlucky/Oh! my darling single (2019). It’s a sweet song that makes you fall in love with him all over again. After this heartfelt performance, he seamlessly transitioned into โPerfumeโ, a track that undoubtedly brought back many memories for fans, as it was Yamada‘s first original song, released in 2007.
Back to the album’s new tracks, Yamada performed the stunning ballad called โHana no you niโ (่ฑใฎใใใซ), where his gentle voice conveyed a fragile beauty, akin to a flower that fades away almost as quickly as it blooms. It was a standout vocal moment that showcased how Yamada excels in delivering captivating ballads.
To make way for the costume change, the screens played a POV-style video, simulating a date with Yamada. It was a charming interlude that made the audience feel even more involved in the experience.
At that moment, the center stage rose, and with screens set up nearby, even those farther back could watch the performance up close without relying on the main stage screens. It was a thoughtful detail that reflected the care and effort Yamada and the staff put into creating a well-executed and enjoyable live experience.
As the date scenario ended, the tone shifted againโthis time to something sultry. Yamada reappeared, stretched out on a white feather bed at center stage, and launched into the sensual โDo it again,โ delivering a performance that was equal parts seductive and stylish.
He kept the momentum going with โNo ID,โ which had a choreography, and I danced to it along with the dancers. He followed with โDete itte yo,โ another standout ballad that, in my opinion, ranks among the best on the album.
The audience roared when he performed “Kuranmeria” (ใฏใฉใณใกใชใข), his first Hey! Say! JUMP song of the evening.
With excitement still running high, Yamada began to sing โAi no Katamariโ (ๆใฎใใใพใ), a nationally famous KinKi Kids song that any Japanese person will know about. It is undoubtedly a national hit that you can finally listen to on streaming platforms!
Without lowering the bar, he sang โAsia no Yoruโ, a solo that had been re-recorded for the album. It was a welcome addition for longtime fans.
The MC segment brought a lighter, more intimate vibe. Yamada chatted with the audience, sipped water, and giggled at the fansโ chorus of โcute!โโa candid moment that added to his charm.
Yamada appeared from the back of the venue wearing the costume of LEO character from his YouTube channel.
Riding a trolley decorated with a large โR,โ he sang โPlease! Please! Please“, a bubbly and upbeat idol number that let his youthful charm shine and expressive stage styleโjust like the royal idol he is.
โSUPER GROOVEโ is a mature and rhythmical song, and it showcases his powerful stage presence and unique charisma. The proximity of the trolley and the audience made many fans fall in love again.
As he moved through the arena stands, video clips of Yamadaโs past drama appearances played on screenโa nostalgic montage that reminded fans of just how long theyโve been on this journey with him. It felt like flipping through a scrapbook of memories, filled with beloved dramas and theme songs from Hey! Say! JUMP.
As you watch it, you canโt help but feel nostalgic, remembering your teenage years and how time has passed. The dramas starring Yamada are genuinely good, so if you ever get the chance, please watch them!
Kissing the Ring Finger, The Killer Inside, and My Cuteness Is About to Expire!? are all availble on Rakuten Viki.
During the chorus of โDEAR MY LOVERโ, Yamada encouraged the fans to dance along, and the screen split into eight windows showing eight different versions of him. It seemed like he was trying to represent all eight members of Hey! Say! JUMP, as if they were all dancing together with him. But just then, the gintape were released, so everyone in the arena was focused on grabbing one and wasnโt really following the choreography.
Animated 2D versions of the Hey! Say! JUMP‘s members showed up on screen, searching for Yamada. They finally found him goofing around and told him to hurry up, get changed, and get back to the concert!
Dancers in capes filled the main stage as a glowing sphere descended. As “VELVET“ began, the sphere cracked open to reveal Yamada inside! He sang inside the sphere and moved 30m in the air to the centre stage, showing off his โthe king’s styleโ as he alighted.
The show hit its climax with “HUSTLER“, a bold, high-impact performance that bursts with confidence, swagger, and charisma. With powerful beats, edgy choreography, and a street-style vibe, the song highlights Yamadaโs cool and rebellious side.
Then came “Mystery Virgin,” which is an energetic rhythm and an intriguing melody, blending elements of mystery and suspense with delicate harmonies. The song reflects Yamada‘s growth from adolescence to young adulthood, both in his vocal performance and his stage presence. On the screens, you could see both young Yamada and the Yamada of today.
“SWITCH“ is an intense, upbeat track that reflects a dynamic shift in his musical style. The song blends powerful, driving beats with Yamadaโs commanding vocals, creating an energetic and captivating atmosphere.
The main part of the concert ended, and fans shouted Yamada‘s name, giving way to the encore.
The encore began with “Moonlight”, which is a captivating and smooth ballad that radiates emotional depth and elegance. The song features soft, delicate vocals that create a soothing atmosphere. In this song, Yamada went with the trolley to approach the audience.
“snow moon” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that combines delicate melodies with a profound emotional depth. The song evokes the imagery of a serene, winter night, with soft piano arrangements and Yamadaโs smooth, soulful vocals creating a tranquil and introspective atmosphere.
The final number of the night was “Bloomin‘,” an upbeat and vibrant track that radiates energy and optimism. The song features catchy, infectious melodies paired with dynamic beats, creating an uplifting atmosphere, and it was the perfect way to end a concert that had been full of surprises, emotions, and personal touches.
The two-hour performance wrapped up, and Yamada certainly had a unique way of entertaining the audienceโthoughtful, intimate, and captivatingโwhich is something only he can deliver.
For those who canโt attend in person, good news: the final performance of the tour on June 22 at Marine Messe Fukuoka A will be live-viewed in 250 cinemas across Japan. Fans in Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan will also get to experience it. Donโt miss your chance to witness RED in all its glory.
