Asian pop continues to break boundaries and the latest release from SB19 proves just that. The P-pop powerhouse has teamed up with Japanese chart-toppers BE:FIRST for “TOYFRIEND,” a cross-border track that blends R&B vibes with a dance-ready edge.
As part of their sophomore album Wakas At Simula under Sony Music Entertainment, the single is already making waves internationally even before its full promotional push.
“TOYFRIEND” Dominates Japan’s Music Charts
Before officially gaining traction worldwide, “TOYFRIEND” had already proven its impact in Japan. The track quickly climbed major digital charts, securing top spots across multiple platforms.
It debuted at No. 1 on MORA’s All Genre, International, and Hi-Res charts, while also landing high rankings on iTunes, Line Music Japan, and RecoChoku. The song even reached No. 2 on the Oricon Digital Chart, a strong indicator of SB19’s growing fanbase in Japan.
Additional chart highlights include placements on Spotify Daily Viral Japan, Billboard Japan Top Download Songs, and Genius Japan charts, further cementing the collaboration’s success.
A Dance Anthem with a Relatable Twist
At its core, TOYFRIEND is more than just a catchy club track. It dives into the emotional gray area of modern relationships, particularly the confusion of a situationship.
SB19’s Josh Cullen Santos shared that the song reflects the uncertainty of liking someone without knowing if those feelings will be returned. This emotional push and pull is what gives the track its relatable edge.
A Bold and Edgy Sound Direction
For Pablo, the track immediately stood out. He described it as having a distinct energy that aligns perfectly with the group’s artistic direction.
He also noted that the song leans into a more daring and slightly provocative sound, giving it a fresh and modern appeal that sets it apart from typical pop releases.
Built from Scratch: A True Collaboration
Unlike many collaborations that repurpose existing material, “TOYFRIEND” was created from the ground up specifically for both groups. This allowed SB19 and BE:FIRST to align creatively and build a cohesive sound.
According to Pablo, starting with a blank slate ensured that both acts could contribute meaningfully, resulting in a track that feels authentic to both groups.
Seamless Cross-Border Production
Despite being based in different countries, the collaboration process was smooth and well-coordinated. SB19 recorded their parts at their studio, while BE:FIRST worked on theirs in Japan.
Justin de Dios shared that their team was present during BE:FIRST’s recording sessions to maintain consistency in vocal direction and overall sound.
Meanwhile, Felip Jhon Suson revealed that the collaboration stemmed from his participation in a music showcase in Japan, where fan engagement played a key role in bringing both groups together.
Turning Distance into Opportunity
For Stell Ajero, the geographical distance between the two groups was not a limitation but an advantage. He explained that it allowed them to embrace a global production setup, ultimately enhancing the collaborative experience.
The result is a polished and cohesive track that highlights the strengths of both SB19 and BE:FIRST.
Why “TOYFRIEND” Matters for Asian Pop
With “TOYFRIEND,” SB19 continues to elevate P-pop on the global stage. The collaboration not only showcases Filipino talent but also highlights the growing influence of Asian artists in the international music scene.
It’s a testament to how cross-cultural collaborations can create something fresh, exciting, and globally relevant.
If you’re looking for a track that combines infectious beats with a relatable story, “TOYFRIEND” deserves a spot on your playlist. This collaboration between SB19 and BE:FIRST is a strong reminder that Asian pop is not just rising, it’s already here and making waves worldwide.
Stream the track now on your favorite music platform and see why everyone is talking about it.