Japanese music heavyweights have come together for an ambitious new cross-genre collaboration. Awich, CHICO CARLITO, ONE OK ROCK, and Paledusk have officially unveiled YAO, a new collective that bridges hip-hop, rock, and alternative music, making its debut with the release of the explosive single '777' alongside a cinematic music video.
Serving as the group's first release, '777' brings together the distinct styles of all four acts into a genre-blurring track that reflects YAO's mission of pushing creative boundaries. The project was born from a shared desire to create something that transcends genres, generations, and artistic conventions.
The accompanying music video, directed by Hidehito Hotta, places the members against a post-war-inspired landscape of damaged buildings and abandoned vehicles. Shot on a cinematic scale, the visual turns scenes of destruction into a symbol of unity, resilience, and collective strength—echoing the project's central message.
YAO traces its origins to a joint performance by ONE OK ROCK and Awich, where conversations between frontman Taka and the rapper about working together eventually evolved into a larger vision. The project later expanded to include CHICO CARLITO and Paledusk, bringing together artists from across Japan's hip-hop, rock, mainstream, and underground scenes.
Named after the Japanese concept of "Yaoyorozu," which celebrates the coexistence of countless spirits and perspectives, YAO aims to champion collaboration through diversity and creative exchange.
Like what you read? Show our writer some love!
-