Introducing BALLISTIK BOYZ from EXILE TRIBE, a multi-talented group from Japan. They made their debut in 2018 under the Rhythm Zone Records label and LDH by Avex. What sets them apart from other EXILE TRIBE units is that all members can dance, sing, and rap. Their latest release is the single ‘Ding Ding Dong,’ and we recently had the opportunity to chat with them about this new release, their tour, and more.

Photo Credit: LDH and Rhythm Zone | Avex Entertainment

Congratulations on the release of your new EP. Can you tell us a little bit about “Ding Ding Dong”?

MASAHIRO SUNADA: This song was born out of an idea we had while discussing with the members that we wanted to release an aggressive song after a series of mid-tempo songs like “Animal” and “Bye Bye to Last Dance”. I think everyone has moments in their daily life when they have to make choices, and this song contains a message like “Stick to your beliefs without succumbing to the temptations that are questioned at that moment”!

YOSHIYUKI KANO: This song is themed around faith and temptation. I think everyone has times when they are troubled or lost in these situations, but we have expressed it well in the lyrics and the music video! I hope you can feel the importance of sticking to your beliefs for your dreams and goals without succumbing to temptation!

Photo Credit: LDH and Rhythm Zone | Avex Entertainment

Ding Ding Dong
Download & streaming links: 
https://ballistikboyz.lnk.to/ddd_0531r_dlstr

What can fans expect from the current BALLISTIK BOYZ LIVE TOUR 2023 “N.E.X.T.”?

RYUTA HIDAKA: It’s our first solo tour in two years after our activities in Thailand, and as the title “N.E.X.T.” suggests, I think fans are expecting to feel how we have grown in our performances, and how we will make them feel the concept of “N.E.X.T”. We have prepared performances and entertainment that will exceed their expectations.

RIKIYA OKUDA: I think this is an opportunity for fans to see how much we have grown through our activities in Thailand, and understand the deep meaning of “N.E.X.T.” in our live performances!

How do you approach songwriting? Please tell us about the process that shapes your lyrics and music choices, and anything in particular that has influenced you.

MIKU FUKAHORI: When writing lyrics, I sometimes get inspiration from books and poetry. When making music, I first decide on a reference for the kind of vibe I want, and then I compose passionately according to my own feeling.

RIKI MATSUI: I set a theme at the time, and tirelessly create a melody in various genre beats first, and then write the lyrics. Recently, I have been actively producing songs for the group after discussing with the members about the kind of songs we want for our group.

What is the secret to BALLISTIK BOYZ’s great teamwork?

RIKIYA OKUDA: We are truly good friends from the bottom of our hearts, and no matter how hard or tired we are, we never forget the fun we have as a group of seven. I think that’s what contributes to our teamwork!

RYUSEI KAINUMA: There are many factors, but I think the best one is our close relationship. Also, our stoicism towards music is undoubtedly a secret of our strength. Since each of us gets along well, we can express our opinions to each other, deliver entertainment without compromise, and I believe our stoicism is what strengthens the team.

As you continue to succeed as a group, please tell us about your future goals and aspirations.

YOSHIYUKI KANO: After spending six months living in Thailand, I want to continue to work hard on our activities abroad. We’ve done a 16-city tour in Japan, and I hope to be able to perform live as much overseas!

RIKI MATSUI: Firstly, the place we seven aim for is the World Stadium Tour. I think if you ask any member about the group’s dream, everyone would answer “World Stadium Tour”. This was a dream that we decided on when we first formed, and we’ve vowed never to give up until we achieve it. Apart from that, our group has members who like to create music, some who have a side as actors, and some who can make clothes or artwork. Even though we are a boy band, expanding our activities as a creative collective is also one of our goals.

Lastly, please give a word to your fans.

MIKU FUKAHORI: We will continue to work hard to become a group that represents Japan, so thank you for your support!

RYUSEI KAINUMA: Thank you always for your support! We, BALLISTIK BOYZ, aim to fulfill our dreams overseas, and we hope to visit many countries and deepen our bonds with all of you through entertainment! Please look forward to what BBZ has in store for the future!

We want to give a special thanks to Avex for giving us this opportunity and To BBZ for interviewing with us!

Check out BALLISTIK BOYZ from EXILE TRIBE’s MV for “Ding Ding Dong” below!

Follow BBZ on Social media!

Official accounts

Website: https://m.tribe-m.jp/Artist/index/195