BE:FIRST MANATO's Stunning National Anthem Rendition at Japan Basketball Game Captivates Fans

During an international match featuring the Japan men's national basketball team, MANATO, a member of the immensely popular dance and vocal group "BE:FIRST," performed a solo rendition of the national anthem that became a major topic of conversation on social media.

Earlier that same day, MANATO was scheduled to perform at the major music festival "Summer Sonic." After delivering an intense stage performance, he made a complete turnaround by appearing at the basketball venue in formal attire that evening, singing the Japanese national anthem, "Kimigayo," in a solemn and dignified atmosphere.

On social media, praise poured in for his beautiful, resonant vocals and respectful singing style that filled players and spectators alike with a sense of reverence. Comments such as "It gave me goosebumps," "Is this the best 'Kimigayo' rendition in history?," and "Such a precious voice" were posted one after another.

Additionally, fans who were unable to watch it live due to television broadcast scheduling and other factors expressed their joy and gratitude after viewing the videos released on official Nippon TV basketball social media channels and YouTube, saying, "I'm so glad I got to see this wonderful anthem performance" and "I was deeply moved." Fans showered MANATO with warm words of appreciation and pride, praising him for successfully pulling off the dramatic contrast between his overwhelming festival performance and his solemn national anthem rendition on a grand stage.

The context

"Kimigayo" is the national anthem of Japan, and it is a traditional custom for prominent artists or athletes to perform it a cappella or with minimal accompaniment at major international sports events. MANATO is a vocalist in BE:FIRST, a seven-member boy group produced by SKY-HI under the management and label company BMSG. Known for their high-level singing and dancing skills, the group has amassed a massive following in Japan. Balancing a high-energy rock/pop festival like Summer Sonic with a formal national athletic event on the exact same day highlights the incredible versatility and demanding schedules of top-tier Japanese idols.

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