JO1 CELEBRATES 5 YEARS WITH "BE CLASSIC" • POP TOKKI

After successfully embarking on their “JO1DER TOUR: WHEREVER WE ARE” in the U.S., which will end at the Tokyo Dome from Apr. 20 to 21, 2025, JO1 has been extremely busy. Sho, Ruki, Takumi, Shosei, Ren, Syoya, Sukai, Junki, Keigo, Shion, and Mame have been actively promoting their 5th anniversary album release on April 4th, which had JAM’s (fandom name) super excited for its release. Intermixing past years of work and current works, “BE CLASSIC” showcases JO1’s past and present. The title track “BE CLASSIC” was released before their 5th anniversary album ‘BE CLASSIC’ on Mar. 24, and it lived up to its name as it sampled Beethoven’s 5th Symphony “Of Destiny”.

As of April 2nd, their single “BE CLASSIC” is currently ranked No. 1 on Billboard Japan’s downloaded and hot shot songs. This album pays a bit of tribute to their fandom as it shares an array of new and old songs that their fans have chosen in celebration of their 5th anniversary. It features 9 tracks full of fan favorites like “Love Seeker” and their debut single “無限大 (Infinity)” reimagined, as it showcases how much the group has grown. As well as unit tracks like upbeat and rap influence “EZPZ”, “Hottie with the Hot Tea”, and “Be There For You”, which share a sincere from-the-heart message of hope. Another track composed by Junki, Ren, and Syoya featuring lyrics written by all members is “Bon Voyage,” as it expresses their gratitude and love for their fans.

“BE CLASSIC”

Over 18 million views on YouTube, “BE CLASSIC” holds a unique sound. As mentioned previously, combining Beethoven’s 5th symphony with Pop and Rap creates an interesting sound and vibe that blends effortlessly good together. This track, as well as the entire album, is an homage to their work over the last five years, as “BE CLASSIC” is stating that at this point and time they are classics of the highest quality. The video opens up with Ren on the piano, and as the video progresses, it displays many examples and meanings of what “classic” means. From black and white scenes to their outfits, the overall scenery of chandeliers, ballerinas, and Greek columns truly encompasses the message of being classic. Check out the music video below!