*This article was published in “Rolling Stone Japan vol.20” released in September 2022.
Despite having won the world dance competition four times, he has the will to pursue the physical expression that only he can do by shortening his distance from music, and makes a “second start” as an artist. Sota has chosen. BE:FIRST’s performance is supported not only by her dance technique, but also by her affection and kindness towards the members.
[Vedi foto]Performance at “THE FIRST FINAL”
ーIn the year since your first live, which stage has remained the most impressed in your memory?
SOTA: There were things that could only be obtained there, but I gained a lot from “THE FIRST FINAL”.
– How was it in concrete words?
SOTA It all started with an audition where the goal was to transform from a dancer into an artist. But to be honest, I don’t feel like I’ve become an “artist” since my debut. It looks like it has been dyed little by little, like a gradation. When I performed the songs from the moment of audition, I felt that I improved and felt happy because my anxiety to hold the mic and perform was gone. It was a big deal for me to realize that. Finally, we closed BE:FIRST on stage, and even then I was really proud of myself. “THE FIRST FINAL” was a live show that gave me confidence and courage as an artist.
ーIn the past year, which 7 members do you think had the complete opposite of you in terms of live performances?
It is SOTA JUNON. I can dance on stage without thinking about it at all, but JUNON is the opposite. As for the song, I really envy the staging that you can enjoy without worrying. I use my brain to show a good performance by demonstrating what I’ve learned in practice, whether it’s the tone or the nuances, and I enjoy it. I was talking about how JUNON tries very hard to dance, but when I think, “You don’t pay attention to your singing,” I get a little jealous. He’s very lively and I envy you.
ーConversely, if you had to put SOTA-san’s individuality into words again in your live performances, what would you say?
SOTA dance. embodies. I am confident that I have done more than anyone when it comes to expressing myself with my body. Even when it’s a song that has no choreography, it’s possible to express it without just using the drums. Since I danced a lot, I can enjoy myself without paying attention to it.
