IN CONVERSATION WITH JO1
interview by JANA LETONJA
JO1 is an an 11-member global boy group, is carving out a major presence not only in Japan but across the globe. Emerging from PRODUCE 101 JAPAN, they have quickly made their mark with their remarkable talent, chart-topping hits, and dynamic performances. They released their 5th anniversary best ‘Be Classic’ this April, and had sold out concerts in LA and NY in March.
full looks YOHJI YAMAMOTO POUR HOMME
JO1 was formed through PRODUCE 101 JAPAN with over 65 million fan votes. How did that intense, fan-driven journey shape your identity as a group?
RUKI: I believe that JO1 is what it is today because of the auditions and JAM, even after our debut. However, we cannot rely solely on JAM's support, so we strive to deliver quality performances that demonstrate our growth and show our appreciation every day.
Looking back at your debut with ‘Protostar’, what do you remember most vividly from that time?
MAME: As it was our first proper shoot as JO1, I didn't know how to pull a good face. I remember everyone was very nervous.
KEIGO: The dance break in the debut song 'Infinity' was challenging, but as it was our first time performing with the other members, we all managed to pull it off and it turned out to be a wonderful memory.
You’ve achieved nine consecutive #1 singles on Oricon and double platinum with ‘Wandering’. How do you stay motivated and inspired with each new release
SHOSEI: Having JAM here is the best motivation for me. Their constant support gives us a lot of strength. We also have fun thinking, “'What kind of JO1 can we show next time?” We enjoy thinking what can we show as JO1 next. Each time we release a new song, we face a new challenge, which naturally motivates us even more. I want to grow even more, and I want JAM to think “I love JO1.” I will continue to do my best so that JAM will think “JO1 is great”.
With sold-out concerts in LA and NY, how does it feel to be receiving this kind of support from international fans?
SYOYA: I was very happy, but I also felt that I had kept them waiting. I was surprised by their enthusiasm.
SHION: I wondered if there were any overseas fans at all, but I was thrilled to see such passionate and enthusiastic supporters.
‘Be Classic’ celebrates your 5th anniversary. What does this milestone mean to you personally and as a group?
REN: Maintaining an active lifestyle over a long period of time is not easy, so I would like to thank everyone who has supported us over the past five years. This milestone year has inspired me to continue being active for longer.
With 11 members, how do you balance individual strengths and creativity within the group?
SHO: We value each individual's opinion and balance creativity by identifying and incorporating each person's strengths into our performances and live shows.
JO1 is building a worldwide fanbase. What are your goals for global expansion over the next year?
SKY: Create a stage dedicated to JO1 and tour the US. Schools, companies and cities all need a boost.
You’ve won Favorite Asian Artist at the MAMA Awards. How do accolades like that affect your vision for the future?
JUNKI: Japanese music is attracting attention from all over the world, and I am very happy and proud that JO1's music is part of that. I would like to continue sharing our music with the world as part of JO1's 'Go to the TOP!' campaign.
What’s one moment in your journey so far that felt truly life-changing?
TAKUMI: LA. Time passed slowly, which suited me very well. I hope to live there someday.
TEAM CREDITS:
photography HENRY WU
styling KENTARO OKAMOTO
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview JANA LETONJA
hair and makeup NISHIO SAYURI, SASAKI MIKA, TAMURA YUKO, KOMOTO AKANE, SHIMADA SEIKA, TSUTANI SEIKA
