Music

Thai star Nunew on his Japanese debut and what’s next in 2025

Global superstar

15.01.2025

By Marissa Chin

IMAGES: @new_cwr / INSTAGRAM
Thai star Nunew on his Japanese debut and what’s next in 2025

It doesn’t take long to figure out why Thai star NuNew Chawarin has quickly stolen the hearts of viewers and listeners. The 23-year-old first splashed onto Thailand’s entertainment scene with his acting debut in Cutie Pie The Series in 2022, a mushy Boys Love rom-com series, which quickly garnered millions of views online for its sweet plotline and sizzling chemistry with popular co-star Zee Pruk. 

buro malaysia nunew chawarin

NuNew was a natural on screen and it didn’t take long for him to become a Thai sensation with a dedicated online following of over 3.4 million followers on Instagram. Those who follow NuNew also know he has a passion for music and has lent his sweet voice to several drama OSTs and covers. In July 2023, he launched his musical career with the single Anything and has steadily had his foot in both the acting and musical world.

But the pop star doesn’t have just Thailand in his sights. On 20 November 2024, NuNew made his Japanese debut with First Date at Shibuya, crossing borders with his music and showcasing his far reach around the world. Ahead, we speak to the Thai superstar to get the scoop behind his Japanese collaboration and the slew of exciting projects coming up in 2025. 

 

Congratulations on your Japanese debut single! How did the idea of recording a Japanese song first come about?

Thank you so much! My dream is to connect with more people around the world through music, especially in Japan, where there is such a strong appreciation for diverse musical styles. I had visited Japan many times before for my work and I’ve always admired its rich music culture. 

The opportunity to debut in Japan came about when a producer from Sony Music Japan, who has a deep interest in Thai pop and entertainment, luckily invited me to be part of their project. My team and I wanted to create something special that would resonate with both my existing fans and new listeners in Japan. 

When I heard about my debut in Japan, I was very excited and thrilled, so releasing First Date at Shibuya is really a dream come true! Collaborating with incredible Japanese producers and songwriters made it even more meaningful—it felt like the perfect way to start this new chapter of my journey. 

buro malaysia nunew chawarin
Image: Maciej Kucia / Sony Music Japann

 

Please share what the process and overall experience were like working with the producers behind the song.

Miss Amp Achariya, also known as the Queen of T-pop, and Mr. Hisashi Kondo are the producers of this song. I have worked with Amp Achariya for a very long time—she has written many of my songs, and I deeply admire her talent.

As for Hisashi-san, he has been a part of producing so many iconic J-pop songs and is highly respected in Japan. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him on this project.

When I first heard the song, my immediate thought was, “It is so cute! Kawaii!” I initially received a version with only the melody and I was hooked right away. When the backing tracks were added, it became even more special. This song is not just a new step in my career; it is also a wonderful challenge and an exciting opportunity to release a Japanese song in Japan. 

 

Why was First Date at Shibuya the perfect song for your Japanese debut?

First Date at Shibuya is about a date in Shibuya, a lively district that matches the song’s youthful and romantic vibe. I also shot the music video there, adding a special connection to the story.

buro malaysia nunew chawarin
Image: Maciej Kucia / Sony Music Japann

The song tells a sweet story of young love, but it is more than just romance. It is about inspiring and encouraging anyone to start something new or face a challenge. You do not need to be in love or on a date to enjoy this song. It is a feel-good melody that can lift your spirits and give you the courage to take on something exciting, even on tough days.

 

How does First Date at Shibuya signal a new era for your music?

This is a big step forward for me as an artist. Deep diving into the Japanese music scene, which has such a rich and unique culture, challenged me to explore new sounds and styles, and to come out of my comfort zone while making it authentically my own. It is about showing a more mature and versatile side of my artistry while staying true to the emotional storytelling that has always been a part of my music. 

 

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A post shared by NuNew Chawarin (@new_cwr)

I had the opportunity to work with talented Thai and Japanese producers which allowed me to grow and discover new ways to express myself musically. This song also represents a bridge to connect cultures, which is something I have always wanted to do. I see this as the start of a journey where I can connect with more people around the world through my work, my voice and my stories.

 

As you embark on this cross-cultural journey, who are other artists that you would love to collaborate with in the future?

I would love to release more music in Japan, whether as solo songs or collaborations. Beyond Japan, I also want to work in different countries and explore singing in various languages. Music has no boundaries, and I am excited to see how far I can take this journey.

When it comes to collaborating with Japanese artists, there are so many incredible talents. I really admire Fujii Kaze, LiSA, and YOASOBI, and it would be a dream come true to work with any of them!

 

Since your debut in 2022, you’ve achieved so much success within a short period of time. What would you like to share with fans who have supported you along the way?

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me on this journey. Your love and encouragement mean the world to me, and I promise this is just the beginning—there is so much more to come!

 

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A post shared by NuNew Chawarin (@new_cwr)

In 2025, I am excited to take on multiple projects in both acting and music. For acting, I am especially thrilled about Zomvivor and Beauty and the Beat. In Zomvivor, you will see me in a completely unique role, unlike anything I have done before. From the costumes to the character’s lifestyle, everything will feel fresh and unexpected. 

buro malaysia nunew chawarin

Meanwhile, Beauty and the Beat will be my first full-on comedy film, which was so much fun to work on. I hope everyone enjoys seeing me in a new light. I will also be part of a series, The Next Prince, which I am really looking forward to sharing with you all. 

On the music side, I will be releasing more songs that will lead up to my first album, and I am planning a concert as well—whether it is a solo or duo project, it is going to be special. I hope everyone will continue to follow and support all of these exciting projects!

 

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