All about shytaupe
shytaupe is an up-and-coming sensation in the Japanese music scene. Formed in July of 2022, their hit song “rendez-vous” gained popularity on social media and climbed streaming charts, labeling them a next-generation breakout group. In 2024, they are scheduled to embark on a nationwide tour.
In this article, we answer commonly asked questions about the group.
Table of Contents
Who is shytaupe?
shytaupe (シャイトープ) is a Japanese band consisting of three members based in the Kansai region of Japan. The trio met in university as members of the same college club, and the group was formed in July 2022.
With a thematic focus on “everyday life”, shytaupe’s music focuses on capturing the day-to-day. Each song in the group’s discography was created and written by their vocalist and guitarist, Sou Sasaki. He believes these snapshots of life are the best to connect with listeners.
Who are the members of shytaupe?
The three members of shytaupe are Sasaki Sou (vocals/guitar), Masaki Fukunaga (bass), and Takato Man (drums). More info on each member is below.
Sou Sasaki
Sou Sasaki (佐々木想) is the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, as well as their songwriter. While the youngest in the group, he is responsible for bringing the trio together.
Originally from Hiroshima Prefecture. Sasaki Sou’s journey into music began with the guitar. This extended to singing, thanks to his parent’s encouragement. His early interest in singing covers then evolved into a passion for creating original songs. Now, Sasaki produces the music and writes the lyrics for shy taupe’s songs.
A big fan of the famous band Mr. Children, he aspires to achieve a similar level of success and someday play alongside them
Masaki Fukunaga
Masaki Fukunaga (ふくながまさき), the bassist, is the eldest member of the trio. When Fukunaga was young, he started playing the bass as his older brothers were playing the guitar and drums.
Born and raised in Okayama Prefecture, Fukunaga was already employed when he received the invitation from Sasaki to join the group. Initially balancing work commitments and band activities, he later made the significant decision to resign from his job to fully dedicate himself to the band.
Takato Man
Takato Man (タカトマン) is originally from Nara Prefecture. He goes by the following alias, as his full name has not been publicly disclosed. He spoke about how he enjoyed performing with Sasaki in college and was excited to receive his invitation to form a band together.
Introduced to music through the piano, his interest shifted towards drums during elementary school.
How was shytaupe formed?
The group was formed in June 2022 after Sasaki invited Fukunaga and Takato Man to form a band together.
Close to finishing college, Sasaki wanted to give forming a band “one last chance” before returning to his home prefecture in Hiroshima to find employment. This was his final opportunity to follow his musical dream.
Sasaki Sou reached out to two others, Masaki Fukunaga and Takato Man, whom he had met through a mutual club in college. They all felt it was the right moment to pursue the band, and started their musical journey together.
Where does the name shytaupe come from?
The origin of shytaupe’s name comes from the word taupe meaning mole in French. The trio embraced this name due to their frequent practice sessions in an underground studio, drawing a playful comparison to the underground creatures.
Sensing that just the name “Taupe” was lacking, they decided to add the word “Shy” to the front—a nod to the members’ social tendencies.
How did shytaupe’s rende-vouz become popular?
Released in April 2023, “rendez-vous” (ランデヴー) became a breakout song for shytaupe. Crafted as a poignant breakup song, the song reflects the genuine emotions of a man navigating the pain of separation from his former lover.
“rendez-vous” catchy melody and relatable lyrics captured the attention of listeners, gaining popularity on social media platforms and ranking in various music charts. In July of the same year, it achieved a remarkable feat, securing the top spot in Spotify’s Viral 50 – Japan. The success continued with a two-week consecutive reign at the top of the Billboard JAPAN’s Heatseekers Songs chart.
The great impact of “rendez-vous” has motivated shytaupe even further, aspiring to enhance their visibility and sustain their momentum. With a commitment to creating works they can be proud of, the band looks forward to contributing more meaningful and resonant music to their audience.
Where can I follow shytaupe?
As they envision their future, shytaupe’s members expressed their aspirations to continue producing good songs that can resonate with their fans. They also shared their aspirations of performing at the prestigious Nippon Budokan, and other major venues in the country. The anticipation builds for the group’s bright future.
Follow their exciting journey through their social media accounts below.
Official Website: https://shytaupe.com/
X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/shytaupe
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shytaupe/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@shytaupe9695
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