Harajuku-core trailblazers HANABIE. are bringing the heat on their new single "Spicy Queen" and the official music video (via Sony Music Japan). Taking inspiration from experiences on their recent US co-headlining tour with Kim Dracula, today's release is in celebration of the band's 10-year anniversary and is a counterpart to the fan-favorite track "We love sweets". When asked about "Spicy Queen", vocalist Yukina commented:
"The song 'WE LOVE SWEETS,' which we released in 2021, has become a gateway track for listeners to discover our music. It’s a very meaningful track for us. As time has passed and we have matured, we thought, “Let’s make a spicy version of the song!” during our tour. Inspired by the famous “Nashville Hot Chicken”, we decided to create this new rendition that features a spicy and stimulating musical progression. It also has an addictive quality that will make you want to ‘eat’ (listen to) the track on repeat!"
Guitarist and vocalist Matsuri said:
"This song was born during our U.S. tour from the sudden thought, "Let’s create a track that marks our 10th anniversary year.” It’s also the first track we crafted collaboratively as a band through constant discussions and was incredibly fun to make!! We included plenty of moments for our fans to shout along with us, designing the track with the vision that all the parts will come together during a live performance. So, we hope you listen to it a lot and come join us at our live shows!"
Bassist Hettsu also added:
"To celebrate our 10th anniversary year, we created this song that captures the essence of HANABIE.! It’s a track where everyone can shout together during the chorus and has parts that pay homage to our past songs. We feel it encapsulates the 10 years of HANABIE.! Listen to it a lot and let’s sing this track together at our live shows!"
HANABIE. drummer Chika shared:
"This song was created through discussions among us during our U.S. tour and marks the milestone for the band’s 10th anniversary year! My favorite drum phrase is in the second verse, where the rhythm alternates every measure between on-beat and off-beat! Aside from the drums, I also love Matsuri’s vocal slides at the beginning of the second verse! I hope everyone will shout along with us during the chorus when we perform at live shows."
Prior to today, the quartet released the official music video for "Tasty Survivor", the featured ending theme song for the anime series 'Momentarily Lily', available for streaming now on Crunchyroll, after releasing their latest EP 'Bucchigiri Tokyo'. Stream "Spicy Queen" here, watch the official music video, and be sure to stay tuned for more exciting HANABIE. news coming soon.
ABOUT HANABIE.:
HANABIE. is a Tokyo-based all-girl rock band that has been making waves since 2015, when YUKINA, MATSURI, and HETTSU came together for a high school club activity. With the addition of CHIKA in May 2023, the band has evolved into a force to be reckoned with. Don’t be fooled by their cute, girlish image—their sound is a hard-hitting blend of powerful shouts, heavy riffs, and unique Japanese flair, capturing fans at home and abroad. Their hit single “Pardon Me, I Have To Go Now” has amassed over 9.4 million views on YouTube and 5.1 million views on TikTok.
In December 2024, HANABIE. released their latest EP, Bucchigiri Tokyo, further showcasing their dynamic range and signature style.
2023 marked the beginning of their overseas ventures, and in August 2024, they made history as the first Japanese women to perform on the main stage at Lollapalooza in Chicago, USA. With a rapidly growing international following, HANABIE. is actively expanding their presence and making a bold statement on the global stage.
HANABIE. is: