For immediate release – 19-year-old Japanese singer-songwriter Rol3ert (pronounced “Robert”) is quickly emerging as a breakout artist in Japan’s music scene. His presence across Asia has been steadily growing since the release of his debut single “meaning” in January, followed by “HOPE” in April. Both tracks have landed on user-generated playlists across major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music.
His new single “Nerd”, released on 25th June under Exciter Records, arrives as an poignant anthem for those navigating solitude while still holding on to hope. A tribute to the “beautiful nerds” looking toward the future, the track blends emotional vulnerability with melodic clarity. Rol3ert revealed that the melody came to him during a bike ride, and the song, written primarily in English, features emotionally piercing verse in Japanese that strike a deeper chord:
“I erased my colors
And I was okay with that
But I was still scared of the end.”
The song eventually unfolds into a quiet, affirming message that reads like a conversation with his younger self:
“Don’t die
Don’t throw it away
Believe in the feelings inside you
Live honestly
Trust in your emotions.”
These lyrics resonate not only as a personal reflection but also as comfort for a generation coming of age in uncertain times.
“Nerd” is co-produced by MONJOE (known for his work with yahyel, DATS, Number_i), who brings a dreamlike groove to Rol3ert’s sparkling yet shadowy indie pop/rock sound. The track was mixed and mastered by Masahito Komori, whose credits include Fujii Kaze, Kenshi Yonezu, and Official HIGE DANDism, adding polish and depth to an already immersive production.
The accompanying music video portrays the story of a “nerdy” boy, lost in his own world, who unexpectedly forms a quiet connection with a girl he meets. Their awkward yet sincere “not-quite-dancing” choreography contrasts poignantly with the emotional intensity of the song. Actress Aika Sonoda (known for her work in Japanese film and television) plays the female lead, lending the story a soft, mysterious presence.
In his self-written liner notes, Rol3ert reflects:
“Even though I’ve lived for 19 years – seeing, feeling, absorbing so much – there are still moments when I wonder what the right answer in life really is. That feeling of being totally alone, like you’re the only person in the world… I think everyone experiences it at some point. The more you chase answers, the more you can lose sight of yourself. That’s why I believe in facing the ‘nerdy’ parts of yourself, the awkward, overly sensitive, insecure sides that make you feel different. I don’t know if that’s the right answer, but I hope it is. I’ve put that hope and that version of myself into this song.”
Rol3ert’s first solo show, “3mpty”, will take place on 4th July at Daikanyama SPACEODD in Tokyo. It will be a special night where the narratives behind “meaning”, “HOPE” and “Nerd” come together. Ticket details are available here.
On 27th July, Rol3ert will appear at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL performing on the Pyramid Garden stage with a three-piece live setup featuring Colombian bassist/manipulator Alex and guitarist Kenshin Sugimura. The set is highly anticipated as Rol3ert’s music meets the natural atmosphere of Fuji Rock’s iconic festival grounds.
