Japanese artist and actress AiNA THE END, aged 30, has made a triumphant return to the renowned YouTube channel “THE FIRST TAKE” after nearly two years, performing her latest single, “革命道中－On The Way” (translated as “On The Way” or “Revolutionary Journey”). Announced on August 6, 2025, her performance premiered on the official “THE FIRST TAKE” YouTube channel at 10 p.m. JST that same day, delighting fans worldwide. Known for her distinctive voice and dynamic presence, AiNA’s third appearance on this prestigious platform showcases her evolution as a solo artist and her growing influence in the global music scene.
This blog post dives deep into AiNA THE END’s latest milestone, exploring her career trajectory, the significance of “THE FIRST TAKE,” the meteoric rise of her song tied to the anime Dandadan, and the broader cultural impact of Japanese music and animation. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this article offers a comprehensive look at why AiNA’s performance is a must-watch and how it resonates with audiences far beyond Japan.
A Star’s Return to “THE FIRST TAKE”
AiNA THE END’s latest appearance on “THE FIRST TAKE” marks her third time gracing the channel, a platform celebrated for its raw, one-take performances that strip music down to its emotional core. The song she chose to perform, “革命道中－On The Way,” is the opening theme for the second season of the TBS anime Dandadan, which airs Thursdays at 12:26 a.m. JST. Since its release, the track has exploded in popularity, amassing over 100 million views across social media platforms and captivating listeners of all ages with its powerful energy and unique sound.
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Reflecting on the song’s success, AiNA shared, “Shin Sakiura, with whom I made the song, has been a friend for over 10 years, and we’ve made several songs together before, but this is the first time we’ve received such global recognition. The anime Dandadan has shown us various landscapes. I’m grateful!” Her collaboration with Sakiura, a talented producer in Japan’s indie music scene, has clearly struck a chord worldwide, blending their creative chemistry with the vibrant world of anime.
AiNA also commented on her “THE FIRST TAKE” experience: “This is my third appearance, but this time I challenged myself with the roughest voice I’ve ever used. There are also dancers who acted like objects and provided chorus—it was a first-time experience. In the chorus, I wildly swung my voice around, and I think this is a song that could only be expressed on ‘THE FIRST TAKE.’” This bold approach underscores her willingness to push artistic boundaries, making this performance a standout moment in her career.
Who Is AiNA THE END? A Journey from BiSH to Solo Success
To fully appreciate AiNA THE END’s latest achievement, it’s worth exploring her background. Born AiNA, she rose to fame as a member of BiSH, a Japanese girl group active from 2015 to 2023. Dubbed a “punk band without instruments,” BiSH was known for its chaotic energy, unconventional style, and fierce live performances. AiNA’s husky, emotive vocals became a defining feature of the group, earning her a loyal following.
When BiSH disbanded in 2023, AiNA transitioned to a solo career, releasing her debut album THE END in 2021. The album showcased her versatility, blending rock, pop, and electronic elements while delving into personal themes of identity and resilience. Since then, she’s continued to evolve, collaborating with artists like Shin Sakiura and balancing her music career with acting roles. Her ability to reinvent herself while retaining her signature rawness has solidified her status as a multifaceted talent in Japan’s entertainment industry.
The Magic of “THE FIRST TAKE”
For those unfamiliar, “THE FIRST TAKE” is a YouTube channel launched in 2019 that has revolutionized how music is presented online. Artists perform their songs in a single, unedited take, often with minimal instrumentation, offering an intimate glimpse into their craft. The simplicity of the setup—a white backdrop, a microphone, and a camera—belies the emotional intensity it captures, making it a favorite among music lovers worldwide.
AiNA’s history with “THE FIRST TAKE” includes standout performances like BiSH’s “オーケストラ” (Orchestra), which highlighted her vocal strength. Her latest appearance, however, takes things to a new level. By embracing a “rough” and “wild” vocal style and incorporating dancers who double as chorus members, she transforms “革命道中－On The Way” into a visceral experience. This creative freedom is what makes “THE FIRST TAKE” special—it’s a space where artists can experiment and connect with fans on a deeper level.
“革命道中－On The Way” and the Dandadan Connection
At the heart of AiNA’s latest success is “革命道中－On The Way,” a track that serves as the opening theme for Dandadan’s second season. Dandadan, a manga by Yukinobu Tatsu serialized in Shueisha’s Shōnen Jump+ since April 2021, blends supernatural action, comedy, and teenage drama. Its anime adaptation premiered in October 2024, with season two debuting in July 2025, quickly gaining a global following.
Anime opening themes are more than just background music—they’re cultural touchstones that set the tone for a series and often become iconic in their own right. “革命道中－On The Way,” with its title evoking a “revolutionary journey,” perfectly captures Dandadan’s adventurous spirit. The song’s driving rhythm and AiNA’s passionate delivery mirror the anime’s high-stakes battles and quirky humor, making it an instant hit.
The collaboration with Shin Sakiura adds another layer of depth. Known for his genre-blending production, Sakiura brings a modern edge to the track, enhancing its appeal to both anime fans and casual listeners. Together, their work has propelled the song to over 100 million social media views, a milestone that reflects its widespread acclaim.
The Global Rise of Anime and Japanese Music
The success of “革命道中－On The Way” is part of a larger trend: the global rise of anime and Japanese music. Once a niche interest, anime has become a mainstream phenomenon, thanks to streaming platforms like Netflix and Crunchyroll. This accessibility has introduced international audiences to Japanese culture, with opening themes often serving as a gateway to discovering new artists.
AiNA THE END’s song exemplifies this crossover appeal. Its global recognition—evidenced by those 100 million views—suggests it resonates beyond language barriers, likely due to its universal themes of struggle and triumph, paired with Dandadan’s relatable characters. As Japanese pop culture continues to expand, artists like AiNA are bridging cultural gaps, bringing their music to fans in North America, Europe, and beyond.
Unique Insights: The Power of Voice and Performance
What sets AiNA’s “THE FIRST TAKE” performance apart is her fearless use of her voice. Describing it as her “roughest” yet, she swings between intensity and chaos, particularly in the chorus. This rawness isn’t just a stylistic choice—it’s a reflection of her artistic identity, forged through years with BiSH and honed as a solo act. The addition of dancers who “act like objects” adds a theatrical flair, blending visual and auditory elements in a way that’s fresh and unexpected.
This performance also highlights the synergy between music and anime. Opening themes aren’t just promotional tools; they’re emotional anchors that deepen a viewer’s connection to the story. For Dandadan fans, “革命道中－On The Way” amplifies the show’s energy, making it unforgettable.
Impact and Legacy
AiNA THE END’s return to “THE FIRST TAKE” is more than a single performance—it’s a statement of her growth and influence. As a solo artist, she’s proven she can stand on her own, building on her BiSH legacy while carving a new path. The global success of “革命道中－On The Way” positions her as a key player in the internationalization of Japanese music, alongside the anime boom.
For fans, this moment is a celebration of her talent and the power of collaboration. For newcomers, it’s an invitation to explore her discography, Dandadan, and the vibrant world of J-pop. As AiNA continues to innovate, her journey promises to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Conclusion
AiNA THE END’s “THE FIRST TAKE” performance of “革命道中－On The Way” is a testament to her artistry and the enduring appeal of Japanese music and anime. With over 100 million views and counting, the song has transcended borders, uniting fans through its raw emotion and infectious energy. Whether you’re drawn by her voice, the anime, or the platform’s unique format, this is a moment worth experiencing. Check out the performance on YouTube and join the global conversation about AiNA THE END—one of Japan’s most exciting musical talents.
