Snow Man

Snow Man formed on May 3, 2012 as a six-member Johnny's Jr. unit during the stage production Takizawa Kabuki 2012. The original lineup consisted of Hikaru Iwamoto, Tatsuya Fukazawa, Shota Watanabe, Ryohei Abe, Ryota Miyadate and Daisuke Sakuma. They specialized in acrobatic dance and theatrical performances, appearing as backup dancers for senior groups and starring in various stage shows.

In January 2019 three new members joined: Raul, Ren Meguro and Koji Mukai. The expanded nine-member group shifted focus toward mainstream activities and prepared for debut. On January 22, 2020 they released their first single D.D. as a double A-side with SixTONES. The release sold over 1.8 million copies and stayed on the Oricon top 100 for more than 100 weeks, a feat no male idol single had achieved in 17 years.

Since debut the group has released multiple million-selling singles and two studio albums that both debuted at number one on Oricon. Snow Mania S1 sold more than 1.8 million copies in its first week, setting a record for boy group studio albums in Japan. In 2022 they moved to the new joint label MENT Recording. The members stay busy with solo drama roles, variety shows, and modeling while continuing group activities that highlight their tight choreography and group chemistry. [edit]

The six original members spent years training together as Johnny's Jr. They first came together officially in 2012 for Takizawa Kabuki. The name Snow Man came from a winter-themed stage concept. For the next several years they focused on live theater, acrobatics and supporting senior acts like Kis-My-Ft2 and A.B.C-Z.

Everything changed in January 2019 when the agency added Raul, Ren Meguro and Koji Mukai. The new lineup immediately began preparing for a full debut. The simultaneous debut with SixTONES on the same day was a historic first for the agency. Their debut single shattered sales records and instantly established Snow Man as a major force in Japanese idol music. [edit]

Snow Man's sound centers on upbeat J-pop built for live performance. Their tracks usually feature strong EDM drops, heavy bass and anthemic choruses that match their acrobatic choreography. Early pre-debut material leaned heavily on theatrical arrangements suited to stage revues.

After debut their music mixed high-energy dance tracks like D.D. with melodic mid-tempo songs and ballads that showcase the members' vocals. Albums such as Snow Mania S1 and i DO ME include rock-influenced numbers, bright party pop and dramatic theme songs written for member starring dramas. The group's signature remains precise group formations, flips and lifts that make every live show feel like a full theatrical experience. [edit]

Snow Man helped push Japanese idol music further into mainstream media. Their members regularly star in primetime dramas, variety programs and fashion campaigns, bringing idol culture to wider audiences. The group's record-breaking sales figures also raised the bar for physical single and album releases in the post-streaming era.

They influenced younger trainees by showing that strong performance skills and stage experience can lead to major success. Their acrobatic style inspired other new groups to incorporate more athletic elements into choreography. At the same time the members' individual personalities have created a fan culture that values both group unity and personal connection with each member. [edit]

Fans call themselves Snow Mania. They show support through enthusiastic chanting, coordinated lightstick colors during concerts and creative fan projects. The fandom is known for high energy at live shows that matches the group's acrobatic performances. Many fans also follow the members' solo activities in dramas and variety shows, creating a lively online community that celebrates both group releases and individual achievements. [edit]

Ryohei Abe holds a weather forecaster certification and graduated from Sophia University's Faculty of Science and Technology. Daisuke Sakuma is known for his love of anime and has done voice acting work. Hikaru Iwamoto creates much of the group's choreography. The group name comes from their early winter-themed stage concept. Their debut single set multiple sales records on the day it released. [edit]