back number

Overview

back number is a Japanese three-piece band active in the J-POP and J-ROCK genres. Formed in 2004 in Gunma Prefecture by Iyori Shimizu, the band is now under Universal Music and boasts over 6.1 million followers on Spotify. Their popularity score is 80/100, indicating a strong fan base and widespread appeal.

Career History

Early Activities

back number was formed in 2004 with Iyori Shimizu leading the band. The name "back number" stems from Shimizu's experience of losing a girlfriend to another band member, symbolizing being an "outdated" or "back issue" to her. In 2005, Kazuya Kojima officially joined the band, solidifying its lineup.

Indie Debut

The band released their first mini-album, "Nogashita Sakana," on February 18, 2009, marking their indie debut. The album gained significant attention and was selected for FM station power plays.

Major Debut

back number made their major debut with the single "Hanabira" on April 6, 2011, followed by the release of their second album "Superstar" on October 26 of the same year.

Major Achievements

In 2013, they successfully held their first solo concert at Nippon Budokan. In 2015, their fifth album "Chandelier" topped the Oricon charts. The band also conducted a massive dome tour in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka in 2018, which was a great success with all tickets sold out.

Recent Activities

In March 2023, back number embarked on their first nationwide five-dome tour "back number “in your humor tour 2023”" and in November, they surpassed 500 million cumulative streams for their song "Suiheisen."

Musical Characteristics

back number is known for their emotional lyrics and melodies, earning a dedicated fan base and a unique position in the J-POP and J-ROCK genres.

Discography

• "Nogashita Sakana" (2009)
• "Ato no Matsuri" (2010)
• "Shiawase" (2011)
• "Hanabira" (2011)
• "Hanataba" (2011)
• "Omoidasenakunaru Sono Hi Made" (2011)
• "Superstar" (2011)
• "Koi" (2012)
• "Nichiyoubi" (2012)
• "Watagashi" (2012)

back number's distinctive and emotive music has secured them a crucial place in the Japanese music scene, and they continue to be a highly anticipated act in the industry.