Photo Courtesy of ENDMUSTBE
Emerging from Japan’s dynamic music scene, ENDMUSTBE is a band that channels raw emotion and energy into their sound—blending powerful instrumentals with expressive storytelling. Their music reflects a balance of intensity and vulnerability, creating a distinct identity that resonates with listeners both locally and beyond.
With a growing presence and a passion for crafting meaningful music, ENDMUSTBE continues to captivate audiences through their compelling sound and engaging performances. Each release showcases their artistic depth and commitment to pushing their musical boundaries.
In this exclusive City Stories written interview, we take a closer look at ENDMUSTBE’s journey—exploring their beginnings, creative process, and the inspirations that shape their music. Get ready to discover the story behind the band and what drives their ever-evolving sound.
Can you introduce End Must Be to our readers and share how the project first started?
We are a group that champions “New Generation Shibuya-kei,” reconstructing the sounds of 90s Shibuya-kei with a contemporary sensibility. We are influenced by 80s City Pop, 90s Shibuya-kei, and acid jazz.
What inspired the name “End Must Be”? Is there a story or philosophy behind it?
The Japanese word “Enmusubi” (meaning “fate” or “binding ties”) sounds like “End Must Be” in English. It is also a phrase that leaves room for interpretation — listeners can imagine for themselves what follows “End Must Be.” We hope that our listeners will engage with our music in that open-ended way.
How did the collaboration between lotta, CHiRAL, and kenjiman come together?
CHiRAL was moved by a video of lotta performing independently, reached out to kenjiman, and End Must Be was born.
Your sound reflects strong influences from 80s City Pop and 90s Shibuya-kei. What draws you to these eras?
We grew up listening to that music. It is simply part of who we are.
Who are some Japanese or international artists that have shaped your musical direction?
The Brand New Heavies, Jamiroquai, Incognito, Prince, Sade, Taeko Onuki, and COSA NOSTRA.
How would you describe your sound to someone hearing End Must Be for the first time?
Music that blends elements of jazz, funk, R&B, and J-POP.
What usually comes first in your songwriting process — melody, lyrics, or production?
We typically start with the track, and then the melody and lyrics are built on top of it.
How do you balance nostalgic influences with a modern sound?
We are not consciously trying to create a nostalgic sound — we don’t think about balance in that way. Our sensibilities are deeply rooted in the 80s and 90s.
When lotta’s contemporary sensibility is layered on top, the sound of End Must Be naturally emerges.
Can you walk us through the creation process of one of your recent releases?
For our latest track Interstellar Voyage: CHiRAL created the track, then developed the melody and wrote the lyrics, followed by lotta’s vocal recording and kenjiman’s guitar recording.
Many City Pop-inspired acts evoke feelings of nostalgia and romance. What emotions do you hope listeners feel when they hear your music?
Hope for the future, positive emotions, and affection for the people close to you.
Do your lyrics reflect personal experiences, fictional stories, or a mix of both?
It depends on the song — sometimes personal, sometimes fictional.
What message does End Must Be want to share with the world?
You are not alone.
City Pop has gained global popularity in recent years. How do you feel about international audiences discovering your music?
Recently, City Pop has been exploited by AI-generated content, and when overseas listeners search for City Pop, they are mostly directed to AI-generated music.
We find it very unfortunate that many international listeners are hearing AI-generated music and believing it to be authentic Japanese City Pop. We want people to know that tracks with “City Pop” in their title or artist name are almost always AI-generated.
Have you received feedback from overseas listeners?
We receive a lot of responses from overseas listeners and are truly grateful for every one of them.
Are there plans for live performances or collaborations in the future?
We will be performing live in Tokyo this autumn as part of a joint concert with other artists. (Details will be announced in June.)
If your music were a city at night, what would it look like?
An exotic port city with an air of foreign charm, where countless lights reflect on the surface of the water.
What’s one dream venue or festival you’d love to perform at someday?
Fuji Rock Festival.
Get connected with ENDMUSTBE! 🇯🇵
Follow the band and stay updated on their latest music, releases, and live performances by clicking the link here
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