7 MEN Samurai has evolved tremendously since their Summer Paradise show in 2020. Each member has embarked on a journey of growth, refining their skills and deepening their connection with both the group and their fans. From showcasing their individual talents to delivering awe-inspiring group performances, Reia Nakamura, Katsuki Motodaka, Rinne Sugeta, Taiko Sasaki, Taiki Konno, and Rei Yabana have demonstrated that they are not just idols but true artists in their field of craft.
The group has always been a group that forges their own path, steadily walking in their own footsteps while constantly striving for greater heights. From their early days in 2020 to their most recent performances, theyโve grown tremendously, not just as individuals but as a collective force. What sets 7 MEN Samurai apart is their unwavering commitment to improvementโnever settling for mediocrity, always pushing boundaries, and refining their craft with every new challenge.
Each member brings a unique strength to the group, and together, they create a synergy that fuels their rise. Whether itโs Reiaโs visionary artistry, Katsukiโs attention to detail, Rinneโs heartfelt charm, Taikoโs dynamic energy, Taikiโs charisma, or Reiโs unconventional edge, they all contribute to a sound and performance style that is distinctly their own. They walk confidently on the path theyโve built, never looking to imitate, but instead refining who they are as both idols and artists.
With every concert, they leave behind footprints filled with experience and growth, along with their dedicated and equally passionate fans, setting a foundation for future success. As they continue to rise, they are not simply following in the footsteps of their seniorsโthey are carving out their own legacy.
Their journey is one of resilience and passion, and as they aim for taller heights, one thing remains clear: 7 MEN Samurai will continue to stand proudly, walking in their own footsteps, leading themselves and their fans to a future where they reach even greater peaks.
Reia Nakamura
Reia Nakamura, the oldest member of 7 MEN Samurai, is a true all-rounder. With his member color yellow, bass, and guitar in hand, he has established himself not only as a skilled artist and performer but also as a highly talented skateboarder.
In the early days, especially around 2020, 7 MEN Samurai incorporated skateboarding into their performances, with Reia leading the charge. His ability to skateboard during shows added a unique and dynamic layer to their image, showcasing the groupโs versatility.
His skateboarding skills were on full display during their Summer Paradise shows, and with him at the forefront, the group’s charm as multi-talented performers only grew.
While they have since shifted away from using skateboards in their performances, 7 MEN Samurai continues to evolve, focusing on their image as both idols and musicians who remain true to their artistry and craft.
Reia, however, shines the brightest when he embodies the “idol of the century” aura on stage. Whether heโs showcasing his sweet and playful side or exuding a more mature and refined persona, he captivates audiences effortlessly.
From his solo performance of Daiki Ariokaโs “Bubblegum” in 2020 to ARASHIโs “One Love” during last yearโs Make ไพ Noise show, and this yearโs performance of “Himitsu,” Reia has proven time and again that he can deliver beloved love songs with a warmth and charm that leaves a lasting impression.
His ability to balance the innocence of youthful love with mature elegance makes him stand out as one of the most well-rounded and captivating idols in the industry.
But behind that sweet persona lies a tiny devil. Whether itโs on their YouTube channel or behind the scenes, Reia often shows his slightly mischievous side, using his position as the oldest to get his way with the other members.
He commands the group with a quiet authority, often without needing to lift a finger, proving that his charm works just as well offstage as it does under the spotlight.
Fast forward to their “7 MEN Samurai LIVE 2024 and JOY!” tour, Reiaโs role has evolved not just as a performer but as a creative force. His stage design, featuring cyberpunk-inspired Buddhist deities, added a new layer of depth to the group’s performances, while his denim costume designs set the tone for their modern samurai aesthetic. His growth as both an artist and a leader within the group has been instrumental in shaping 7 MEN Samuraiโs unique identity.
Katsuki Motodaka
Katsuki Motodaka, with the member color green, has shown incredible growth since their Summer Paradise 2020 show, where he performed ARASHIโs Sho Sakuraiโs “T.A.B.O.O.“
This performance was a stark contrast to his 2024 solo, “Akashi” (่จผ), which he composed and wrote himself. In 2020, Katsuki demonstrated his versatility, showcasing his ability as the group’s main rapper while embodying the cool, intense energy of “T.A.B.O.O.“
Known for his academic skills and his love for fish, Katsuki’s idol image has long been “smart but soft,” accompanied with his love for fish. His occasional clumsiness and the affectionate teasing from his fellow members, often seen in their YouTube videos, highlight a lovable, down-to-earth side that fans cherish.
As the group’s keyboardist, Katsuki often operates from behind the scenes, but performances like SixTONES‘ “Rollin‘,” where he shares vocals with Reia, and TOKIO’s “JUMBO” allow him to step into the spotlight.
Over the years, he has remained the groupโs main rapper, but also contributing lyrics to songs like their original song “Chaos Killer” and taking a larger role in stage arrangements, as demonstrated with their performance of Fuma Kikuchi’s “Butโฆ” for this year’s tour. His 2024 solo, “Akashi,” however, shifted the focus from Katsuki the idol to Katsuki the musician.
In the years since, Katsuki has not only honed his keyboard prowess but also expanded into composing and arranging music. His solo performance of “Akashi” was a testament to his growth. This melancholic piano ballad showcased a depth of emotion and musicality that he has cultivated over the years, in stark contrast to the usual rap and the more electro-pop track “Electric Flow” solo he did last year.
Where “Electric Flow” showed his creativity and free side, the piano ballad presented a more mature and reflective side of him. “Akashi” showcased his growth not just as a performer but as an artist deeply committed to his craft.
Katsuki’s journey has been one of continuous refinement and exploration of his musical abilities. His participation in the production of and JOY! and “Akashi” highlights his ability to innovate and adapt, making each performance a unique experience that only he can create.
Rinne Sugeta
Rinne Sugeta, the self-proclaimed leader of 7 MEN Samurai, is known for embodying kindness and a heart of gold, despite his muscular physique and athletic prowess trying to paint him tougher than he is. Inside, he’s just a soft, earnest, and hard-working person.
As fiery and burning as his passion and love are for his fellow members and cats, his member color is red, and he is in charge of both saxophone and guitar.
His journey from Summer Paradise 2020 to the present showcases both his strength and his tenderness.
In 2020, Rinne performed Ryosuke Yamadaโs “Oh! My Darling,” delivering a charming and well-honed idol performance that highlighted his ability to embody the charismatic and playful side of being an idol. He continued this path with his 2023 solo, performing Kento Nakajimaโs “CANDY~Can U Be My Baby~,” once again capturing hearts with his flirtatious charm.
However, in 2024, Rinne took a different approach with his solo performance of Kis-My-Ft2’s “Smile.” This heartfelt ballad showcased a softer, more introspective side of Rinne that resonated deeply with the audience. As the hall was bathed in the red glow of penlights, his soothing voice echoed through the venue, drawing the audience into a warm embrace with every note.
While Rinne is often associated with his acrobatic skills and his appearances on shows like SASUKE, this yearโs performance revealed a new level of artistry, proving that his strength lies not just in his physical abilities but in his emotional connection with his fans. He is incredibly kind and humble, which is reflected a lot in his performance of “Smile.”
Not one to be shy in front of the camera, he is often seen on the official Junior TikTok, participating in a multitude of videos, and just like he has a big sweet tooth, he loves being in front of the camera.
No matter what kind of theme or genre the TikTok is, Rinne is sure to be making it a hit. He can pull off both cute concepts and wilder concepts, which makes it impossible to predict what he will present next. While he did not surprise us with an acrobatic show or an intense workout session on stage, he surely captured a lot of hearts.
Initially, he only played the saxophone but has been working diligently on his guitar skills over the years. In this year’s tour, we get to see just how much he has improved and practiced. Having gone from simple backing chords to jamming it out with lead chords, Rinne really shows his versatility in his artistry on stage.
Whether he’s charming the audience with idol pop, pulling at their heartstrings with a ballad, or showing off his well-trained body, Rinne’s genuine and endearing charm captivates every time.
Taiko Sasaki
Taiko Sasaki, the youngest member of 7 MEN Samurai with his member color purple, has consistently proven his immense talent across multiple disciplines, yet his role as the group’s drummer often leaves him hidden from the spotlight during band performances.
Despite this, Taiko is undeniably the solid foundation of their live band setups, driving their energetic and dynamic performances with precision and power.
His steady hand at the drums not only ensures the groupโs music stays cohesive but also provides the rhythm and backbone that allows the other members to shine.
However, Taikoโs talents go far beyond just keeping the beat. Whether itโs vocals, dancing, or playing other instruments, he is a versatile performer who pours passion into every facet of his artistry.
During the “7 MEN Samurai LIVE 2024 and JOY!” tour, he occasionally stepped out of his usual role as the drummer to surprise the audience by playing bassโa rare occurrence that showcased yet another side of his musical prowess. These moments, though infrequent, left a lasting impact on fans, proving that Taikoโs musical abilities are vast and multifaceted.
His dynamic stage presence truly shines when he steps out from behind the drums and onto center stage. His dance performance to KAT-TUN’s “PHOENIX” in 2020 highlighted his exceptional dancing skills, drawing comparisons to the powerful imagery of a phoenix rising from the ashes.
This yearโs performance of timelesz‘ “ROCK THA TOWN” once again allowed him to command the stage with his sharp choreography and vocals, showcasing the full breadth of his talent. The transformation from drummer to frontman was seamless, and his electrifying performance left the audience in awe of his versatility.
What makes Taiko stand out, however, is not just his skill but his infectious energy and undeniable charisma. Known affectionately as the groupโs troublemaker and the resident jokester, Taiko is always up to some mischief, bringing a playful and lighthearted dynamic to 7 MEN Samurai. Whether itโs walking headfirst into a glass doorโmuch to the amusement of his fellow members and fansโor pulling pranks backstage, his humorous antics add a layer of spontaneity and fun to the group. But when the lights hit the stage, Taikoโs playful nature shifts into a mesmerizing focus, and he becomes a true showstopper.
His ability to balance humor with raw talent is what makes him such a unique presence within the group. Heโs a performer who can make you laugh one moment and leave you speechless the next. Whether itโs his unexpected brilliance during live shows or his natural ability to command attention through humor, Taiko brings everything to the table. He embodies the perfect blend of chaos and control, leaving audiences entranced for all the rightโand wonderfully wrongโreasons.
Complete with humor, looks, talent, and skill, Taiko is the very definition of an idol who can do it all. His versatility and relentless passion make him a true wonder within 7 MEN Samurai, proving that whether heโs playing the drums, dancing under the spotlight, or making everyone laugh, Taiko is an irreplaceable force of nature that continues to captivate fans with his every move.
Taiki “Konpi” Konno
Taiki Konno, with his member color pink, has undergone a remarkable transformation, refining his stage presence and evolving into a performer who exudes confidence, elegance, and charisma.
During Summer Paradise 2020, Taiki was recognized for his natural charm and elegance, which he embodied perfectly in his performance of Takuya Kimuraโs “Sunset Bench.”
The song allowed him to showcase his softer side, a performer with a delicate touch and a graceful presence.
However, in recent years, Taikiโs performances have revealed a new level of maturity and versatility, marking his growth as a performer who can adapt to various musical styles.
One of the standout moments in 2024 was his sultry rendition of “LOVE JUICE,” very reminiscent of Jin Akanishiโs ~2009 visuals. This marked a departure from the more refined charm of his earlier performances, revealing a more aggressive and mature side to Taikiโs artistry.
His sharp movements, smooth transitions, and control over his body language captivated the audience, pulling them into his performance. With every beat, he commanded the stage, proving that when he steps into the spotlight, his presence is nothing short of commanding.
While Taiki may often remain in the shadows, his moments in the spotlight are unforgettable. He has the ability to take control of a performance with quiet intensity, efficiently and calculatingly charming the audience as soon as the lights hit him. His confidence has grown over time, and while his style is subtler compared to some of his more energetic groupmates, his impact is undeniable. Taikiโs power lies in his precisionโevery movement and note is deliberate, crafted to draw the audience in and leave them wanting more.
Vocally, his range has become one of the groupโs strongest assets. His ability to effortlessly hit high notes and harmonize with the other members adds richness to 7 MEN Samurai’s sound. His guitar-playing skills also enhance the groupโs versatility, allowing them to seamlessly switch between idol performances and band arrangements. Despite his often understated demeanor, Taiki has proven to be both reliable and captivating, a steady force in the groupโs ever-growing dynamic.
And while Taiki may be the picture of elegance and restraint, heโs not above jumping into the chaos that defines 7 MEN Samurai. When the moment calls for it, his sense of humor and playful side come to the forefront, reminding fans that beneath his poised exterior lies a performer who can easily match the groupโs lively and unpredictable energy. This balance of calm charisma and spontaneous charm makes Taiki a unique and integral part of the groupโs dynamic, always ready to surprise his audience and deliver unforgettable moments.
Rei “Bana-san” Yabana
Rei Yabana, 7 MEN Samurai’s own Jack-of-all-trades musician, represented by the color white, has carved out a unique identity within the group as the “not-so-conventional idol.”
From the early stages of his career, Rei has been pushing the boundaries of what it means to be an idol, opting for a raw and unpolished aesthetic that stands in contrast to the typically sparkly idol image.
This edgy, unhinged style, paired with his musical talent, is what sets him apart, making him a standout performer within the group.
In the early days, particularly during their Summer Paradise 2020 shows, Rei began to explore these rock elements, breaking away from the norm and embracing a sound and image that felt truer to himself. His self-produced song “I Know,” which debuted during that era, has since become a powerful anthem that represents his evolution as a musician and artist.
The song itself embodies who Rei isโgenuine, unfiltered, and unapologetically authentic. His performance of “I Know” during their recent tour was a standout moment, as he let loose with his bass, showcasing the energy and intensity that has become his hallmark. On stage, Rei is not just playing a role; he is fully immersed in the music, letting his individuality shine through in every note.
What makes Rei even more fascinating is his balance between being an unconventional idol and an approachable, down-to-earth person. Thereโs a “normality” to him that draws people in. He has a relatability that feels like he could easily be your neighbor, yet his immense talent and raw energy remind you that he is anything but ordinary. While his stage presence is intense and electric, Reiโs grounded personality makes him someone you canโt help but admire and respect. This dualityโbeing both relatable and extraordinaryโforms the core of his charm and appeal.
Beyond his musical contributions, Rei plays a crucial role as the groupโs designated MC, effortlessly leading conversations and keeping the energy flowing during live shows. His way with words and well-timed quips make him a brilliant communicator, often steering the groupโs chaotic interactions with calm rationality. Though the other members love to tease him, itโs clear that he is well-loved and respected within the group for his wit, intelligence, and ability to maintain order in the midst of the mayhem.
As he continues to grow as both a musician and a performer, his influence on the groupโs identity becomes more apparent. Rei Yabana is the heartbeat of 7 MEN Samuraiโs unconventional charm. He pushes them to explore new possibilities, all while remaining true to the authenticity that has made him stand out from the beginning.
7 MEN Samuraiโs journey from Summer Paradise 2020 to the present is a story of growth, creativity, and unwavering dedication. Each member has evolved significantly, bringing unique talents and perspectives to the group, and their recent “7 MEN Samurai LIVE 2024 and JOY!” tour is a testament to how far they have come.
As the groupโs primary arranger, Rei has been instrumental in giving 7 MEN Samurai their distinct musical edge. His role in arranging their songs allows the group to step away from the traditional idol sound and explore something more unique, raw, and genuine. He is not alone in this, as the other members also participate actively in composing, lyric writing, and arranging.
Rinne has contributed with lyrics for their new, full-blown chaotic song “Aspara Bacon,” encapsulating the essence that is 7 MEN Samurai into the song. But Reiโs contributions in shaping the groupโs musical direction are invaluable. Together, they are crafting a sound that is entirely in their hands, reflective of their vision and artistic growth.
Their journey is not just about their individual growth but also about how they have come together as a cohesive unit, pushing the boundaries of what it means to be an idol group.
Starting on September 4th, their stage play “MASSARA” took the stage of Shinbashi Enbujo, Tokyo. With “MASSARA,” filled with the charms that are 7 MEN Samurai, they’re creating a brand-new stage, something that they hope to become something so wonderful that, eventually, their juniors will also perform it in the future.
Reflecting on the playโs title, “MASSARA” (meaning “blank slate“), Reia expressed the group’s aspirations: “There are still so many areas we can add color to as we continue our journey in the entertainment world. Through this stage play and our current tour, I hope we can leave colorful memories in everyone’s hearts.“
As they walk confidently in the path theyโve forged, they not only reflect on how far theyโve come but also set their sights on the endless possibilities ahead. Their footsteps, filled with dedication and authenticity, continue to lead them toward even greater heights, proving that their best is yet to come.
Photo assets ยฉ STARTO ENTERTAINMENT.