SB19 is taking another major step toward its global ambitions, bringing Filipino P-Pop to one of Asia’s biggest music markets through a series of landmark activities in Japan.
The Filipino supergroup recently made its debut at SUMMER SONIC 2026, performing in both Osaka and Tokyo alongside some of Japan and the world’s biggest music acts. But the group’s Japan chapter did not stop there. SB19 also made its Japanese television debut and delivered a highly anticipated performance of their hit song “GENTO” with Japanese artist Kento Nakajima.
SB19 Makes Its SUMMER SONIC Debut
Performing at SUMMER SONIC marked another milestone for SB19 as the group brought its music to Japanese audiences for the first time at one of the country’s biggest music festivals.
The group performed in both Osaka and Tokyo, giving Japanese fans a chance to experience SB19’s energetic live performances and diverse musical style.
For PABLO, the opportunity was a dream come true.
“Performing in both Osaka and Tokyo is another milestone for us,” PABLO shared, expressing the group’s excitement to connect with Japanese audiences and introduce them to SB19’s music.
The Tokyo leg became even more memorable when SB19 shared the stage with Kento Nakajima, setting the stage for one of the most talked-about moments of their Japan activities.
Kento Nakajima Joins SB19 for “GENTO”
During SB19’s Tokyo performance, Kento Nakajima joined the group onstage for a performance of “GENTO,” creating a special Filipino-Japanese collaboration in front of the massive SUMMER SONIC crowd.
The performance has since fueled excitement over the possibility of an official “GENTO” collaboration featuring Nakajima.
Adding to the anticipation, Nakajima revealed that he contributed lyrics to the track.
“This time, I had the special opportunity to write part of the lyrics for this track,” Nakajima shared.
He also acknowledged the pressure of adding new lyrics to one of SB19’s signature songs, saying the group encouraged him to simply be himself.
SB19 Makes Japanese TV Debut
Adding another first to their Japan journey, SB19 made their Japanese television debut on NTV’s DayDay on August 13.
For JUSTIN, appearing on a major Japanese television program was a significant milestone for the group.
The quintet performed their latest single “LAWLESS” for Japanese television audiences, giving viewers a first look at SB19’s newest musical direction.
The members also took part in a fun game segment with DayDay host Ryota Yamasato, better known as Yama-chan, allowing viewers to see a more playful side of the group beyond their performances.
A Bigger Global Chapter for SB19
For SB19, these Japan activities represent more than individual appearances. They are part of the group’s continuing effort to build genuine connections with audiences outside the Philippines.
JOSH described the opportunities in Japan—including collaborations with Japanese artists, their SUMMER SONIC performances, and television debut—as an important step in the group’s international journey.
KEN, meanwhile, hopes these activities will lead to more performances, television appearances, and opportunities to introduce SB19’s music to an even wider Japanese audience.
With SUMMER SONIC, Japanese television, and a potential Kento Nakajima collaboration now part of their growing Japan story, SB19 continues to demonstrate how P-Pop can reach audiences far beyond the Philippines.
And if the “GENTO” collaboration becomes official, it could be another exciting chapter in SB19’s increasingly global journey.
Meanwhile, the Japanese edition of SB19’s Wakas at Simula is now available through major record shops and online retailers in Japan under Sony Music Japan.
