Introducing: SAHAJi

"I believe in future, future in the sky”

Prior to the Skinner Brothers releasing their 2025 tour dates, I had never heard of SAHAJi, but I was very curious as to how these two bands came together considering how far apart they are globally. When I went to check out some of SAHAJi's music, I decided that going into it blind would lead to a more authentic experience, and despite having no idea what to expect from them, I quickly discovered what drew the Skinner Brothers in—about halfway through the first song I thought “they're the Japanese answer to The Beatles!” and a lot of other things started to make more sense after that.

I don't seem to be the only person to have had that epiphany, either. Many people in their comments section have made similar comparisons, as well as likening them to other BritPop icons such as Oasis. With so many layers of depth in each of their songs, SAHAJi's music feels like a rally cry for dreamers and rock fans alike, and once you have taken a moment to explore the rest of their music you will understand why they are rapidly growing in popularity around the world.

It was easy to see how SAHAJi first went from being recognized at a Yamaha Music audition in Japan to being signed by Flip Flop Records under the guidance of legendary producer Nick Brine. Their 2023 debut EP, “Future in the Sky,” was a critical success, and their follow-up work continues to build upon their cult following in the UK, where they’ve already supported acts like Andrew Cushin, and will soon be supporting the Skinner Brothers and Love Ghost on their UK tour this coming fall.

I'm not going to lie to you—identifying different genres of music is not my strong suit, but with SAHAJi I was definitely picking up some elements of classic rock, and some of the best parts of blues with the crying guitars that move your soul to tears. Most importantly for me, I was also getting quite a lot of that late 90s-early 2000's era rock. You know, that really good stuff that hits you right in the nostalgia feel-box? The music we all took for granted thinking it would last forever, and then one day it moved on to that great Oldies station in the sky and all we were left with was the memories? Well, SAHAJi says it doesn't have to end like that. They are breathing new life into a genre of music we all thought was lost to the annals of time, while still somehow managing to keep it fresh and leave their own signature mark on everything they create.

Take “Future in the Sky,” for instance (which, for the record, hit the UK Official Charts Top 8)—If this is your first time hearing this song, it will still feel so familiar, like bumping into someone in the store you think you recognize but can't remember where from:

Have you ever noticed that when musicians come in pairs there's usually one quiet, introspective person (that's Yoshiro Nishida on the guitar) that captivates you with their mysterious presence, and then there's someone a bit more animated, like Shotaro Nishida doing vocals (and guitar) who's not shy about flashing a little attitude and making damn sure all eyes are on that stage? Well that's SAHAJi in a nutshell. With their timeless style and effortless, laid back attitudes, they really seem like the kind of people you'd enjoy spending some time with and discussing the meaning of life over whatever is on tap.

Whether they're rocking out on the edge of a cliff, walking us through the streets of Japan, or playing a more intimate show in someone's living room (as they did in the video for “Govinda”), SAHAJi runs the gambit of human emotion. They give you hope with “Future in the Sky,” snatch it away again with the longing, love-sick cry of “I Wanna be There,” and then amp you right back up with the rebellious, melody-driven anthem “I am Here.” This rollercoaster stops for no one, my friends. We won't even get started on the diabolical guitar work from the live video for “Little Wing”! Seriously, go check that out. But I can only put so many videos in one post, so I'm giving you “Voodoo Child” instead... You can thank me later.

As the evening comes to a close, I watch them standing on stage beneath a banner that reads “Guitar Monsters Japan,” belting the chorus to "I am Here" with raw, cutting vocals, and it seems safe to assume that that label might just stick. There's no denying that SAHAJi have an infectious energy that always leaves their fans wanting more. They are ambitious, talented, and have quite the collection of gorgeous guitars. Keep an eye on these brothers—they’re building their own legacy right before our eyes, and they are without a doubt destined for greatness.

You can show SAHAJi some love on YouTube, Instagram, or check out their official website here.

☘️🖤