Kyoko Saito announces solo debut and Tatsuro Yamashita celebrates 50 years

Kyoko Saito has announced her debut as a solo singer, scheduled for 2026 to mark her 10th anniversary in the entertainment industry. Her debut digital single, ‘Genki Ni Shiteta?’, will be released on October 21. The track features music composed by the creative collective w. a. u and lyrics by Haruko Nagaya of Ryokuoushoku Shakai.

Following her graduation from Hinatazaka46 in 2024, Saito has transitioned into acting and variety programming. She is also set to hold her first solo one-man live concert at Kanadevia Hall in Tokyo on February 28, 2027.

In related music news, veteran artist Tatsuro Yamashita was featured on the program ‘EIGHT-JAM’ to celebrate his 50th anniversary since his solo debut. The program highlighted his new live album, ‘JOY2’, which compiles selected best takes from 13 national tours conducted between 2008 and 2025. Yamashita discussed his performance philosophy, emphasizing the importance of vocal quality, live interaction, and his preference for avoiding metronomic clicks to maintain groove.