Japanese rock band Spyair believes that live performances create the most authentic and direct connection between musicians and their audience. The four-member group, which formed in 2005 and made their professional debut in 2010, operates on the principle that music reaches its full potential when it brings people together, with each song carrying a meaningful message that the performers deliver to their fans.
Band leader and bassist Momiken explained their philosophy during a recent written interview with The Korea Herald, emphasizing the unique magic that happens during live shows. "The magic of a live performance comes from the things that can only happen on stage – the sense of unity with the audience and the emotion and energy of music played in real time. This makes the experience better for both the audience and for us, the performers," Momiken said.
Spyair recently returned to Korea to headline the Wonderlivet 2025 music festival on Sunday, marking their first Korean appearance in five months since their last concert in June. Vocalist Yosuke, who joined the band in 2023, described live performances as a collaborative creation between the band and their audience. "A live performance is something we create together with the audience. In everyday life, you would never experience that overwhelming sound, feel the vibrations through your body or have the chance to sing within such an atmosphere," Yosuke explained.
The band's connection to Korea runs particularly deep, with Momiken referring to the country as their "second home." The group maintains a regular presence in Korea, performing multiple times each year. "We visit Korea several times a year for our solo shows and other events, about two or three times a year," Yosuke noted. "We hope to keep coming regularly in the years to come."
While Korean artists frequently achieve success in Japan, it remains uncommon for Japanese musicians to gain similar recognition in Korea. However, Spyair – consisting of vocalist Yosuke, guitarist UZ, bassist Momiken, and drummer Kenta – has built a remarkably strong following in Korea over the years. Three of the four members are original members dating back to the band's 2005 formation, with Yosuke being the newest addition to the lineup.
Since 2011, Spyair has consistently electrified Korean audiences through sold-out concerts and appearances at major festival stages, including the prestigious Jisan Valley Rock Festival. Their popularity has been boosted by their music being featured in popular anime series such as "Haikyuu!!" Songs like "Samurai Heart (Some Like It Hot!!)" and "I Wanna Be ..." have become enduring favorites among Korean fans.
Drummer Kenta reflected on the band's journey in Korea, highlighting their remarkable growth from humble beginnings to major success. "Perhaps the reason we've built such a strong fan base in Korea is because we've been performing there live every year for the past 15 years," Kenta said. "When we first performed in Korea, only two or three people showed up." Over the years, however, their audiences grew substantially, venues became larger, and they eventually gained the support of many Korean fans.
"Now, Korea is a truly special country for us. There is no other place outside of Japan quite like it," Kenta added, emphasizing the unique bond the band has formed with their Korean fanbase over more than a decade of regular performances.
As Spyair looks back on two decades of making music together, the band members emphasize that passion and enjoyment remain at the core of their approach to rock music. Guitarist UZ reflected on their journey, acknowledging both the challenges and rewards they've experienced. "We've experienced highs and lows and faced many challenges, but along the way, we've built a rich history together. What matters most is that we continue to enjoy being a band," UZ said. "I want Spyair to keep creating and performing music that excites both us and our fans."
