Interviewed+Written by Genius Japan | 13 May, 2024Throughout his life, Kento Nakajima has demonstrated unwavering determination and focus. From his early years, he exhibited a clear sense of purpose. At just fourteen, he dove headfirst into the entertainment industry, joining his agency and swiftly rising to prominence as a member of the JPOP idol group Sexy Zone (now timelesz). With an impressive track record that includes contributing to 26 chart-topping singles and 9 chart-topping albums, as well as successful ventures in film, television, high-fashion collaborations, and notable self-produced solo tracks like the recent Instagram-exclusive "ROSSO," Nakajima now sets his sights on the global stage.
In March 2024, Nakajima graduated from Sexy Zone in a touching last live stream on YouTube and the group’s official fan club, but he has no interest in slowing down. Genius Japan sat down with him to hear his thoughts on the new solo journey.── Thank you for taking the time to chat with us at Genius Japan, Kento Nakajima! Can you give us a brief introduction of yourself to the Genius Japan readers?

Nakajima: Hello Genius! My name is Kento Nakajima. I am an actor and recording artist signed with STARTO ENTERTAINMENT in Japan.

──Transitioning from a group member to a solo artist is a big step. What influenced and encouraged your decision to become a solo artist?

Nakajima: This is a very difficult question, and I did not make this decision lightly. My group members have always been incredibly supportive of my desire to create my own music. Last September, we had some long discussions about upcoming changes, such as the renaming of Sexy Zone and how it might be the right time to pursue certain independent career aspirations. I believed, as did they, that such would open up new opportunities for me to grow; not just as an artist or actor, but as a person as well. The eventual decision to go fully solo represents my firm belief in my abilities and my devotion to my craft, which is especially important to me. I am thrilled to have the support of my former group members as I embark on this new journey.

──Reflecting on your past work with Sexy Zone (now timelesz), what are some standout lyrics from your solo songs? Looking ahead, how do you plan to approach your creation of music as a solo artist?

Nakajima: "ROSSO" was my newest solo song prior to transition, and I wrote with a special purpose in mind. My intention was to create lyrics that would allow listeners to interpret them in their own unique ways. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to understanding the meaning behind the song. I want people to be able to imagine their own fantasies when they listen to it. As for my own favorite lyrics, that would be:

「教えてくれ真実の奥で濡れるROSSOを」
Tell me the truth, that gets wet deep inside the ROSSO

The song "ROSSO" holds a special place in my heart because I have fond memories of performing it on stage at the Tokyo Dome. My goal as a solo artist is to write lyrics that are catchy and memorable, while also creating music that touches people's hearts and makes them want to dance. I'm excited to continue honing my skills in this area and working even harder to create music that resonates with my fans.
── You've previously mentioned aiming for a global career in both acting and music. How do you personally define success on an international scale?

Nakajima: That's a tricky question, but to put it simply I believe success as an actor on a global scale is achieved by consistently appearing in TV dramas or films. And as a musician, my goal is to create music that will be enjoyed by enough people to top the global billboard charts.

──You've also highlighted the importance of fashion in your global endeavors. Are there any fashion trends or styles you're excited to explore further?

Nakajima: I personally love European fashion and I enjoy conversing with designers and collaborating with ambassadors from different countries to expand my sense of fashion. Participating in Fashion Week in Milan is a long-held aspiration of mine, and I hope to make it a reality someday.

──On Genius Japan, we like to fill in fun questions to strengthen the bond between fans and artists. What are some of the comfort foods that you really like?

Nakajima: Pasta! And Carbonara especially. I made it at home and when I was shooting in Rome for CONCORDIA, I had it for twenty consecutive days! (laughs) I love the flavor of it. Frank Doelger (the producer) called me “Mr. Carbonara.” I also love Korean instant noodles, and when it comes to Japanese food, sushi is my favorite.
As an artist, your taste in music must be diverse. Do you have any songs you’ve added to your personal playlist recently?

Nakajima: When it comes to US POP, I really enjoy The Weeknd. The collaboration he did with BLACKPINK’s JENNIE and Lily-Rose Depp on “One Of The Girls” is really good. I’ve also been really into CHANMINA lately.
Your fan club I AM:U symbolizes growing with your fans. How can fans support you along your solo music journey in the future?

Nakajima: I hope that I AM:U will become a place of empowerment for all fans. My intention is for it to be a space where we can come together and feel confident - just like when you put on Chanel, Gucci, or Dior - that’s the key. My fan name is ‘Unity,’ and together, I feel like we are building our own original brand. By being a part of the fan club, we're able to discover the most beautiful aspects of our own individual charm and build upon them together. I'm really hoping that people will love it as much as I do.

What can fans anticipate from you as a solo artist in 2024?

Nakajima: Speaking from my heart, I want to express my gratitude for my time in Sexy Zone. The ten years I spent with them have been some of the best moments of my life, and each moment helped me prepare for what I am doing now. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet with a friend of mine who is a part of the group YOASOBI. They are already doing what I am trying to do (ie, overseas success), and during dinner, they shared some of their experiences with me about what they had personally gone through. They also gave me some wonderful advice, so hearing about their journey and what they went through – and contemplating how to apply it to my own experiences – I feel has really helped strengthen my confidence for what’s yet to come.

Lastly, any message you'd like to convey to Genius Japan readers and your international fanbase?

Nakajima: I hope to perform not only in international dramas but on stage musically as well. Please wait patiently and know that I am working very hard to see you soon!

Photos provided by STARTO ENTERTAINMENT. Any unauthorized copying, alteration, reproduction, or distribution is prohibited.

──Thank you for taking some time out of your busy schedules to chat with us, Kento Nakajima!You can follow Kento Nakajima on Genius now to catch up on his latest releases and songs.

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