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Summary:

Kenshi Yonezu’s latest single, “IRIS OUT / JANE DOE,” is making waves domestically and internationally. “IRIS OUT,” the theme song for CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC, broke streaming records, while “JANE DOE,” a duet with Hikaru Utada, provides a contrasting ending theme. In a recent interview, Yonezu reflects on the inspiration behind the songs, his focus on the relationship between Denji and Reze in the film, and the impact of his recent world tour on his personal life and creative process. He discusses how he aimed to differentiate “IRIS OUT” from his previous Chainsaw Man hit “KICK BACK,” the qualities he admires in Hikaru Utada, and his collaborative process. The interview also delves into the thematic connections between the two songs and how they naturally emerged during the writing process.

News Article:

Kenshi Yonezu Reflects on Chart-Topping Single, “IRIS OUT / JANE DOE,” and Post-Tour Transformation

TOKYO, JAPAN – Kenshi Yonezu, the Japanese singer-songwriter, is enjoying phenomenal success with his new single, “IRIS OUT / JANE DOE,” tied to CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC. “IRIS OUT,” the movie’s theme song, has become a streaming sensation, hitting 100 million streams faster than any other track in Billboard Japan history. Internationally, the song reached number 5 on the U.S. Billboard Global 200, marking the highest-ever ranking for a Japanese-language song on that chart.

In a recent interview with Billboard Japan, Yonezu shared insights into the creative process behind the single. He explained that “IRIS OUT,” a high-energy track with “impulsive vocals and comical lyrics,” was intentionally designed to avoid replicating the sound of his previous Chainsaw Man hit, “KICK BACK.” Yonezu aimed to focus the song on the dynamic between Denji and the enigmatic Reze, a key figure in the movie.

The single also features “JANE DOE,” a collaboration with iconic singer Hikaru Utada. Yonezu envisioned Utada’s voice as the perfect complement to the song’s “melancholic, dark vibe.” The collaboration was conducted remotely, with the artists exchanging data. Yonezu was inspired by Utada’s diverse artistry and appreciated the contrasting singing styles they brought to the track.

Yonezu also discussed the significant impact of his recent world tour, the “Kenshi Yonezu 2025 TOUR / JUNK,” on his personal life. He said the experience of performing for international audiences, especially those who had been long-time listeners, provided him with a “refreshing clarity.”

“I was welcomed so warmly, and even heard voices calling out ‘Hachi,’ a name I haven’t been addressed by in years, which made me genuinely happy.”

As a result, he’s adopted a more structured and health-conscious lifestyle. “Looking back on my life, if I hadn’t been accepted through music, I think it would have been terrifying. It’s very ordinary stuff, but I’ve started doing simple things like keeping a daily routine and paying attention to my health.”

The success of “IRIS OUT / JANE DOE” and Yonezu’s personal reflections suggest an exciting new chapter for the artist.

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