Japanese vocal and dance group KID PHENOMENON has released their latest single, “I’m still breathing”, a thoughtful mid-tempo track that explores loneliness and the determination to carry on when life becomes difficult. Written as the ending theme for the second half of the second season of the television anime Mission: Yozakura Family, the song is another collaboration between the seven-member group and Japan’s anime industry, which has played an important part in introducing their music to the world.
Released digitally on 12 October, followed by the CD single on 21 October, “I’m still breathing” explores a more personal and emotional side of KID PHENOMENON’s music. The song deals with loneliness, self-doubt and those difficult moments when finding the strength to carry on can feel almost impossible.
For KID PHENOMENON, the connection between the song and the series is not only about providing music for its closing credits. The group has spoken about how the story reminded them of the importance of family and the lengths people will go to protect those closest to them, sentiments they wanted to express through their performance. It is a great choice for an anime that combines action and comedy with a story about loyalty and finding people worth fighting for.
The music video was directed by Keisuke Nakashima, who has previously worked with Mrs. GREEN APPLE and Travis Japan. Much of the video was filmed against natural scenery, while other scenes place the members in simple, almost empty spaces, creating a noticeable contrast that suits the song’s themes of loneliness and hope. The video keeps its storytelling simple, with the music and the members’ performances doing much of the work in conveying the emotions behind the lyrics.
KID PHENOMENON are part of LDH’s EXILE TRIBE collective and made their debut in August 2023 with “Wheelie”. The group consists of Kensuke Sorematsu, Tsubasa Endo, Kohaku Okao, Soma Kawaguchi, Shunnosuke Sato, Kota Yamamoto and Rui Suzuki. Their musical identity has been described as Tokyo Neo Pop, bringing together contemporary Japanese pop, dance music and the individual performance styles of its seven members.
Although they are still relatively early in their career, anime has already become an important part of their discography. Their single “Existence” (存在証明) was used as an ending theme for Rurouni Kenshin, while “Black Flame” became the opening theme for The Dark History of the Reincarnated Villainess. “Existence” also reached number one on Spotify’s weekly Viral Chart for two consecutive weeks, giving the group an early indication of how far their music could travel outside of Japan.
These anime collaborations are especially valuable for a younger Japanese act seeking recognition overseas. For many international listeners, an opening or ending theme is their first encounter with an artist, and a song that catches their attention during a favourite series can encourage them to discover an entire catalogue. KID PHENOMENON have been making the most of that opportunity, while slowly establishing their musical identity.
Their international activities have also gathered pace in 2026. Earlier this year, the group performed at SXSW in Austin, Texas, an important opportunity to introduce themselves to American audiences. They also appeared at Music Matters Live in Singapore in October, continuing their efforts to reach listeners outside Japan. These performances offer something that anime soundtracks alone cannot: the chance for audiences to experience the group’s singing, dancing and personalities together, and to see how their music works on stage.
With “I’m still breathing”, KID PHENOMENON continue to build on the opportunities their anime collaborations have created, while exploring a more emotional side of their music. Their growing international presence is encouraging, especially at a time when Japanese artists are finding new audiences through streaming, anime and overseas festivals. For a group that debuted only three years ago, there is still plenty of room to develop.
Listen to “I’m still breathing”
Watch the official music video
Featured image courtesy of LDH Japan
View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to film, music, and the arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. As we continue to grow, we aim to deepen our coverage of Asian music while remaining committed to exploring and celebrating creativity across the global arts landscape.
