At just 19, Japanese singer-songwriter Rol3ert (pronounced Robert) is carving out a space in the music scene that feels both vulnerable and powerful. With his latest release “Nerd”, out now via Exciter Records, he invites listeners into the world of the misunderstood and quietly hopeful — a message many can relate to, especially in the strange in-between of growing up.
“Nerd” blends emotional honesty with a dreamy sound that’s both intimate and cinematic. Rol3ert wrote the song mostly in English, but it’s the Japanese verses that hit especially hard. Lines like:
“I erased my colors / And I was okay with that / But I was still scared of the end.”
…cut deep, expressing the internal struggles we often keep hidden. But what makes the song stand out is its gentle shift — from isolation to encouragement, with lyrics that feel like a letter to his younger self:
“Don’t die / Don’t throw it away / Believe in the feelings inside you / Live honestly / Trust in your emotions.”
It’s personal, but not just for him. It’s the kind of song that speaks to anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in — but held on anyway.
Behind the sound is MONJOE, known for working with acts like yahyel, DATS, and Number_i. Together with mixing and mastering engineer Masahito Komori (whose work includes Fujii Kaze and Kenshi Yonezu), they crafted a lush, indie pop/rock track that balances sparkle and shadow beautifully.
The official music video adds another layer of storytelling. Directed with a soft focus and quiet charm, it follows a “nerdy” boy, caught in his own world, who slowly connects with a girl — not through grand gestures, but through shared, awkward, and heartfelt moments. Actress Aika Sonoda adds to the magic with a performance that’s equal parts mystery and warmth.
🎥 Watch the music video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtJet9AoSp0
🎧 Stream “Nerd”: https://friendship.lnk.to/Nerd_Rol3ert
As Rol3ert continues building momentum with tracks like “meaning” and “HOPE”, “Nerd” feels like a breakthrough — a quiet anthem that meets you where you are.
He’s also hitting the stage. Rol3ert’s first solo show, “3mpty”, happens July 4 at Daikanyama SPACEODD in Tokyo, and on July 27, he’ll bring his music to the FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL stage at Pyramid Garden, backed by a live band. It’s a big leap — and one that feels perfectly timed for an artist who’s learning to turn quiet emotion into something everyone can hear.
Follow Rol3ert:
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rol3ertmusic/
🎫 Show details: https://rol3ertmusic.studio.site
For those who’ve ever felt like the “nerd” in the room — this one’s for you.
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