On July 26, 2023, Taiki Sato from the popular group FANTASTICS celebrated the launch of his new magazine, TAIKI MAGAZINE, during a memorable commemorative event held in Tokyo, Japan. This magazine, which he anchored as editor-in-chief, showcases interviews with notable entertainers, including fellow artists like Takumi Kawanishi from JO1 and Kyohei Takahashi from Naniwa Danshi. The event drew attention not only for its star-studded attendees but also for the unique concept behind the magazine.
Sato, who dedicated himself to the magazine’s creation over the past year, spoke passionately about the project, stating, "I put my heart and soul to create this. I rate it 500 out of 500." His self-assured assessment reflects the dedication he poured Into the publication. With the magazine's focus on showcasing genuine and stylish representations of various artists, the event became not just about the launch but about celebrating collaboration within the music industry.
The magazine covers significant themes, highlighting artistic collaborations among various boy groups. Sato noted, "The shared appearances of groups are often only seen on-screen but this magazine provides a unique opportunity for fans to witness captivating visuals and behind-the-scenes moments of artists." This aims to bridge the gap between celebrity persona and authentic character, allowing fans and readers to engage with the artists more closely.
The cover features Kawanishi prominently and includes extensive 16 pages dedicated to him, which sets the tone for this intimate look at contemporary artists. Other featured names include Ryohei Miyama from BE:FIRST and Yusei Yagi, who are also set to draw attention to the magazine’s unique content.
Sato also highlighted the excitement surrounding an exclusive feature- "the forbidden fold-out" with Yagi, which only fans who purchase the magazine will experience. "This is where buyers will first get to break the seal, creating genuine anticipation for those who are eager to get their hands on it,” he shared. This creative touch aims to make the magazine both collectible and exciting for readers.
Supporting artists, including members of EXILE such as TAKAHIRO and AKIRA, were also among the guests, reiteratively demonstrating Sato's connections within the industry. The crossover of personalities at the event illustrated the collaborative spirit present among the artists, marking their unity within the competitive entertainment sector.
Looking beyond the magazine's release, Sato ambitiously set goals for its success. He expressed hopes for the sales to reach levels enabling all members of the FANTASTICS to go on vacation to Hawaii together. The collaborative goal had the crowd buzzing, and his enthusiasm was palpable as he shared his dreams for the future.
The launch of TAIKI MAGAZINE stands not only as a project Sato deeply cares about but also as a representation of growth, connection, and the luminosity of collaboration within Japan's pop culture scene. It invokes the spirit of what it means to be part of something larger than oneself, merging passion with creativity for fans and fans alike.
With the event wrapped and the first copies of the magazine distributed, Sato and the other artists conveyed their satisfaction and eagerness to see how the public would receive the work. The excitement lingered long afterward, marking the beginning of what they hope will be more endeavors to bring fans closer to the various artist personalities shaping today's music industry.