Rol3ert’s “HOPE” Is a Bittersweet Masterstroke from J-pop’s Rising Innovator*

At just 19 years old, Japanese artist Rol3ert is crafting a sonic identity far beyond his years. With his new single “HOPE,” he blends the sweeping melancholy of indie rock with the cinematic depth of alt-pop, proving once again that emotional honesty has no language barrier.

Building on the viral success of January’s “meaning”—a track that’s now racked up over half a million YouTube views and earned praise from tastemakers like CLASH and NOTION—“HOPE” elevates the young artist’s vision. It’s nostalgic yet fresh, with its driving 8-beat rhythm and subtle ‘80s textures. Rol3ert’s smoky vocals float and flare with raw emotion, weaving a narrative about regret, vulnerability, and the unpredictable nature of trust.

This isn’t your typical J-pop fare. Rol3ert leans closer to artists like The 1975, d4vd, and keshi, embracing genre hybridity and emotional nuance. “HOPE” feels like a rainy late-night drive through memory and longing—euphoric, but never saccharine.

The track’s visual companion—a minimalist yet affecting music video—sees Rol3ert singing on the back of a moving pickup truck before stepping into wide-open fields, symbolizing emotional movement and introspection. It’s quietly powerful and deeply human, just like the song itself.