Number_i

Number_i is a Japanese boy band trio formed in 2023 under Takizawa Hideaki's agency TOBE. The group consists of Yuta Jinguji, Sho Hirano and Yuta Kishi, all of whom had previously been members of the Johnny's group King & Prince before leaving that group and agency in 2023. Kishi coined the group's name, which plays on the Japanese pronunciation of «i» as «ai» (love) and «ichi» (one), positioning the trio as both a statement of individuality and a message of devotion to their fans.

The group debuted in January 2024 with the single «GOAT», immediately drawing attention for its harder-edged rap and R&B leaning sound, a notable departure from the idol-pop style of their previous group. Their music blends slick vocal harmonies with trap-influenced production, positioning them closer to contemporary R&B and hip-hop than traditional J-pop idol acts. Songs such as «BON» and «INZM» continued this direction, while the group has also explored more atmospheric, introspective material.

Since their debut, Number_i has built a reputation for tightly choreographed performances and a fashion-forward image, holding their first live shows shortly after their debut single's release. As a relatively new act, their catalogue is still growing, but they have quickly established themselves as one of the more distinctive acts to emerge from Japan's post-idol pop landscape.