Continuing the lineage from James Brown, Zainichi Funk—who proclaims itself as “a new era deep-funk band”—returns to Billboard Live this year as well. Formed in 2007 around SAKEROCK’s trombone player Hamano Kenta, known as Hama-ken, Zainichi Funk debuted with its 1st album, “ZAINICHI FUNK,” in 2010. In 2024, guitarist Ryohiko Aoki’s departure was mourned, but the band pressed on with renewed vigor in a new lineup, welcoming Kei Kogamaru. For this performance, guest appearance by Maki Gotō, who collaborated with Hamano Kenta on the drama “Galaxy’s One Vote” theme song “Oh-Hei,” has been confirmed. This third consecutive premium club show promises a soul-shaking, ecstatic funk groove that will move your soul.