BABYMETAL

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of music is BABYMETAL?

BABYMETAL is a unique music group that blends the intense sounds of heavy metal with the catchy melodies and choreographed performances of Japanese pop (J-pop). Their signature style, often called "kawaii metal," fuses powerful guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and aggressive metal elements with upbeat, idol-inspired vocals and energetic dance routines. This innovative genre-crossing approach has earned BABYMETAL a global fanbase and critical acclaim for pushing the boundaries of both metal and pop music. Their songs often feature a mix of English and Japanese lyrics, catering to audiences worldwide. BABYMETAL's music covers a range of metal sub-genres, including thrash, power metal, and even elements of electronic music, making their sound both accessible and genre-defying. Fans are drawn to their theatrical live performances, high-energy stage presence, and the juxtaposition of heavy instrumentation with youthful, melodic vocals. For anyone seeking a fresh take on heavy metal with a distinctly Japanese twist, BABYMETAL delivers an unforgettable musical experience.

What religion is BABYMETAL?

BABYMETAL is not affiliated with any religion. The group's aesthetic and lyrical themes often incorporate fantastical and mythological elements, but these are purely artistic and not connected to any actual religious beliefs or practices. In the context of their performances and music videos, BABYMETAL refers to a fictional mythology called the "Metal Resistance," which includes symbolic imagery, lore, and characters created for entertainment purposes. This mythology is meant to add depth and intrigue to their music and stage shows, fostering a unique fan culture. The group members themselves have stated in interviews that their use of religious-like iconography, such as the "Fox God," is entirely for show and does not reflect any real spiritual doctrine. BABYMETAL's appeal is rooted in their theatrical storytelling and the creative universe they've built around their music, not in any religious message. This approach makes BABYMETAL accessible and enjoyable for fans from all backgrounds without promoting specific religious views.

How old are the girls in BABYMETAL?

As of 2024, the members of BABYMETAL are in their early to mid-20s. The group originally formed in 2010 with three members: SU-METAL (Suzuka Nakamoto), MOAMETAL (Moa Kikuchi), and YUIMETAL (Yui Mizuno). Suzuka Nakamoto, born December 20, 1997, is 26 years old; Moa Kikuchi, born July 4, 1999, is 24 years old. Yui Mizuno, who was part of the original lineup, was born on June 20, 1999, making her 24 as well, although she departed from the group in 2018 due to health issues. In 2023, MOMOMETAL (Momoko Okazaki, born March 3, 2003) officially joined as the third core member, making her 21 years old. Their youthful energy and talent have been central to BABYMETAL's international appeal, with fans watching them grow from teenagers into accomplished performers. The group's evolving lineup continues to bring fresh dynamics to their music and stage shows while maintaining the spirit that has defined BABYMETAL since its inception.

What was BABYMETAL's first hit?

BABYMETAL's first major hit was the single "Ijime, Dame, Zettai," released in January 2013. This song marked their transition from a sub-unit of the idol group Sakura Gakuin to a standalone band with a distinct identity. "Ijime, Dame, Zettai," which translates to "No More Bullying," combines powerful heavy metal instrumentation with a strong anti-bullying message, delivered through high-energy vocals and striking choreography. The single quickly gained attention in Japan, debuting at No. 6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, and helped establish BABYMETAL as pioneers in the "kawaii metal" genre. Its success paved the way for their subsequent singles and debut album, enabling the group to capture the interest of international audiences. The music video's dynamic visual style and the band's innovative fusion of metal and idol pop elements set the tone for BABYMETAL's future releases, making "Ijime, Dame, Zettai" a significant milestone in their career.

Who passed away in BABYMETAL?

No core member of BABYMETAL has passed away. However, a significant loss in the BABYMETAL community occurred with the passing of Mikio Fujioka, the renowned guitarist for BABYMETAL's backing band, the Kami Band. Mikio Fujioka, affectionately known as "Ko-Gami," died on January 5, 2018, at the age of 36 due to injuries from a fall. As a highly skilled and charismatic guitarist, Fujioka contributed greatly to BABYMETAL's live performances, helping shape their powerful sound and stage presence. Although not an official member of the main vocal and dance lineup, his musicianship and personality made him a beloved figure among fans and crucial to the BABYMETAL experience. The group and fans worldwide paid tribute to his memory, recognizing his lasting impact on BABYMETAL's music and live shows. His legacy continues to inspire both the band and their global fanbase.