Japanese vocal and rap group WOLF HOWL HARMONY from EXILE TRIBE has released their new digital single, “Koko ni Iru” (“I Am Here”), on July 3, 2026. The song has also been selected as the ending song for the TV anime “Iwamoto-senpai no Suisen”. Produced by Studio Deen, the anime premiered in Japan on July 4, and its core themes are closely aligned to the message of “Koko ni Iru”.
Leader RYOJI shared: “I’m truly honored and excited that we’ve been given the opportunity to perform the ending theme for “Iwamoto-senpai no Suisen”. This is also the first time our music has been featured in an anime series, which makes it an especially meaningful experience for us.”
Produced by acclaimed producer ☆Taku Takahashi of m-flo, “Koko ni Iru” explores the emotional challenges of living in a world where comparisons are constant and the “right answer” often feels out of reach. Through its thoughtful lyrics and uplifting message, the song offers warm reassurance to listeners.
☆Taku Takahashi commented on his songwriting process: “Koko ni Iru is a ballad for those who continue trying to move forward despite feeling uncertain about their own choices and decisions. To convey the flow of emotions naturally, we focused on leaving space while arranging both the sound and the vocals. WOLF HOWL HARMONY’s straightforward expressiveness and delicate emotional expression give this song a special sense of persuasiveness.”
At its core, the track carries a simple yet powerful affirmation with the lyrics: “I am here now.” While acknowledging the doubts, conflicts, and uncertainties that many people experience in their daily lives, the song depicts the will to quietly face forward, encouraging listeners to fight even when the path ahead remains unclear.
The music video for “Koko ni Iru” is released alongside the track. Directed by YERD, the MV mirrors the historical setting of the anime, filmed in a traditional Japanese house inspired by Western-style architecture. Through serene angles and delicate performances, the video portrays the four members sharing the same space while each quietly bears their own solitude. Vivid red backgrounds and dynamic editing visually expresses wavering emotions and conflicting feelings.
This collaboration with “Iwamoto-senpai no Suisen” marks another milestone for WOLF HOWL HARMONY following a series of spectacular global activities recently, such as performing at Anime Friends 2026 in Brazil and forming the special unit WOLF & WANDER together with Thai boy group FLIO from GMMTV through the “CLOUD DREAM project by G&LDH”.
Adding to the anime collaboration, THE JET BOY BANGERZ from EXILE TRIBE that is also under LDH JAPAN, will contribute their new single “BUDDING” as the opening theme for “Iwamoto-senpai no Suisen”.
RYOJI also shared: “We sing this song with the hope that it can gently encourage and support anyone who is struggling but still trying to move forward. I hope that when the song begins to play, it allows viewers to reflect on the story and the emotions of the characters, leaving them with a lingering sense of the series after each episode. I hope you enjoy both the anime and the song together.”
As WOLF HOWL HARMONY continues to grow both in Japan and internationally, “Koko ni Iru” showcases an evolution and a more introspective side of the group, connecting them with listeners through universal experiences and heartfelt messages.
“Koko ni Iru” is available on digital streaming platforms worldwide starting July 3, 2026.
