Japanese supergroup YAO returns with second single “FOR OKINAWA”

Share

YAO, a collective bringing together Japanese hip-hop queen Awich, acclaimed rapper CHICO CARLITO, globally renowned rock band ONE OK ROCK, and boundary-pushing band Paledusk, returns with their second single, “FOR OKINAWA”.

Born from conversations shared between the members throughout the production process, “FOR OKINAWA” explores Okinawa’s history, culture, and the lasting scars of its past. Okinawa natives Awich and CHICO CARLITO have long shared stories of their homeland and the realities faced by those who continue to carry its history.

Their perspectives deeply resonated with the other members of YAO, including Tokyo-born Taka (ONE OK ROCK), who came to share their desire for peace and determination to preserve Okinawa’s cultural heritage.

It was this shared sense of purpose that became the foundation for the track. As the members reflected on an essential message they felt was needed not only in modern Japan but around the world, Taka (ONE OK ROCK) challenged himself to create a melody unlike anything he had attempted before. The result is a passionate and deeply personal work that sees the members draw from their distinct backgrounds, experiences, and roots while coming together around a common message.

With “FOR OKINAWA”, YAO continues to explore what becomes possible when artists from different musical and cultural backgrounds converge, creating a sound that is distinctly their own.

A music video for the track is set to be released soon, further expanding the world of YAO and bringing the story behind “FOR OKINAWA” to life.

Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.

Table of contents [hide]

Read More

PPO elevates classic artistry in Concert II: Elegance this October 16

With refined grace, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) continues its 42nd concert season, Modulatio, with CONCERT II: ELEGANCE on October 16, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., at Manila’s historic Metropolitan Theater. Guided by the...

Two Nat’l artists, world-class cellist combine forces in MSO’s Centennial Concert V

The Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) continues its 100th Anniversary Season with a concert featuring internationally acclaimed Franco-Belgian cellist Camille Thomas and the World Premiere of Pasasalamat for choir and orchestra, music by...

MSO Music Academy opens at One Ayala

The Manila Symphony Orchestra officially opened the new home of the MSO Music Academy at One Ayala on Tuesday, October 6. The new space was blessed by Fr. Benny Tuazon of Manila Bahay...

Instituto Cervantes’ PELÍCULA>PELIKULA returns for its Silver Anniversary

From October 4 to 11, 2026, Instituto Cervantes de Manila, in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain, AECID Cultura, and other institutions, will present the 25th edition of PELÍCULA>PELIKULA, the Manila Spanish Film Festival, at Instituto Cervantes' Intramuros branch (Casa Azul) and Power Plant Cinema in Makati City.