Che’Nelle and Da-iCE’s Sota Hanamura Unite in Powerhouse Duet “I’ll be by your side”

Che’Nelle, the globally celebrated singer-songwriter, has joined forces for the first time with Sota Hanamura of hit J-pop group Da-iCE for a powerful new duet, “I’ll be by your side”. The emotionally charged ballad is already making waves as the official ending theme for Fuji TV’s morning show “San! Shine サン！シャイン” throughout June and July.

A seamless blend of Che’Nelle’s soulful delivery and Hanamura’s soaring four-octave range, “I’ll be by your side” is more than a love song – it’s a message of unity, empathy, and shared emotion that transcends borders, gender, and culture. Singing about overcoming differences and walking into the future together, the track’s universal message is elevated by the real chemistry between the two vocalists.

Che’Nelle was inspired to collaborate after seeing Hanamura perform on a TV show last year. “It was truly amazing to sing this song with someone who has such a powerful voice like Sota,” she said. “He’s not just a brilliant vocalist – he’s a performer with real presence. The whole experience was fun and inspiring, and I’m so grateful for it. I can’t wait to see how the song touches people’s hearts.”

For Hanamura, the collaboration was an opportunity to grow: “Working with Che’Nelle gave me a chance to reflect on my voice again,” he said. “She’s an incredible singer, and I gave it everything I had to match her passion.”

Produced by EIGO, the hitmaker behind Che’Nelle’s iconic “Believe”, the song combines timeless balladry with a modern, cinematic sound. The music video also showcases the chemistry between the two artists in an elegant, emotional visual narrative.