BE:FIRST sounds like the intersection of precision and passion. Their music is a high-definition blend of modern dance-pop, sharp hip-hop verses, and soaring R&B choruses. It is characterized by a relentless rhythmic drive that reflects the group's background in professional dance, often featuring heavy synth-bass lines and crisp, snapping percussion that demands movement.
What makes them distinctive is the 'BMSG' philosophy of individual artistry within a group structure. Unlike many idol groups that aim for a uniform sound, BE:FIRST highlights the unique vocal textures of each member, from gravelly rap deliveries to crystal-clear falsettos. Their production often takes unexpected turns, shifting from aggressive industrial-leaning beats to lush, melodic bridges within a single track.
Start with 'Bye-Good-Bye' for their quintessential bright pop energy, then dive into 'Mainstream' to hear their more experimental, hip-hop-focused side. It is music for anyone who appreciates the technical craft of performance and the feeling of a group operating at the absolute peak of their collective talent.
Be:First (stylized in all caps) is a Japanese boy band formed and managed by BMSG and signed to B-ME, a joint record label with Avex. The group was formed on November 3, 2021, through the reality competition show The First, which is hosted by Sky-Hi and debuted on August 31, 2022 with heir studio album Be:1. The group consists of six members: Sota, Shunto, Manato, Ryuhei, Junon, and Leo; Ryoki left the band in 2025. The group is BMSG's first act. Sky-Hi created the company after identifying issues in the Japanese music industry, including a lack of opportunities for talent to showcase themselves, which led talented performers to leave Japan for the wider opportunities offered by the Korean music industry.
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); energetic, confident, hopeful (moods)
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); studio polished, maximalist, digital clarity (production style)
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); confident, energetic, hopeful (moods)
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); studio polished, maximalist, digital clarity (production style)
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); harmonized, rap, belting (vocal style)
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); studio polished, maximalist, digital clarity (production style)
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); harmonized, rap, belting (vocal style)
Shares dance-pop, contemporary r&b, electropop (subgenres); harmonized, rap, belting (vocal style)
Shares confident, dance-pop, empowering, harmonized (signature)
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