【Ryohei Note Blog Post】 Thank you 2024

Original blog post in Japanese 

The year is finally coming to an end. I’m sure it’s been a rollercoaster for everyone—it definitely was for me.

Looking back, I realize just how much I’ve been supported by all of you, the fans.

Of course, not every year is full of good things.

There were plenty of times I found myself thinking, “Why does it have to be like this?”. But tough moments are just a part of life, and they’re bound to keep coming. So I’ve been reminding myself to face them head-on and keep moving forward.

This year, I questioned myself a lot—
"Should I keep doing music?"
"Is this really the right path?"

But thanks to the support of my bandmates, staff, and my parents, I’ve been able to keep going, and I’m so grateful for that.

I think happiness looks different for everyone.For me, I’ve kind of chosen to let go of what most people might call “normal happiness.” I’ve sacrificed a lot along the way, prioritized what I wanted to do, and inconvenienced plenty of people to walk this path.

There are moments when I wonder if I’ve been selfish. But even with all of that, I have no regrets— not a single one.

Maybe I am living selfishly.

But even so, I have people who walk alongside me, who look forward with me. It’s not a conventional life, but I want to keep walking this road with them, just as I am.

And now, here we are at the end of another year.I wonder if I was able to give something back to those who support me, even just a little. I wonder if this band I’ve dedicated my life to has been a source of strength or comfort for anyone. In the past, I used to dwell on these thoughts. But recently, reading the letters and messages I’ve received, I’ve come to realize that our music really has reached people—it’s been a source of support for them. Knowing that makes me think, “I’m so glad I didn’t give up.”

This year has been the hardest one of my life, but little by little, I’m finding my way forward. Being able to end the year like this isn’t something to take for granted. It’s a reminder that as long as we’re alive, anything is possible.

I said this over and over at my birthday live, but let’s keep living together—next year, the year after, and for many more to come.

I’ll keep dedicating my life to music, hoping it can be even a small light of hope for you, as much as it is for me.

There’s so much to look forward to next year— a tour and hopefully lots of exciting announcements.

Thank you so much for everything in 2024.

Right now, I’m on my way to the last show of the year. As always, my only goal is to top the last performance. For those coming, travel safely. Let’s make this the perfect way to close out the year. And bring your voices—let’s hear you loud and clear!