Seven-member boy group Travis Japan has been announced as the Japanese ending theme artist for Disney’s upcoming live-action film Lilo & Stitch, set for theatrical release on June 6. Member Kaito Nakamura will also participate as a Japanese voice actor for the character David. The group will perform Elvis Presley’s classic “Burning Love,” famously featured in the original animated film. A surprise reveal video showing the members' joyous reactions has also been released.

Disney and the film's production team praised Travis Japan’s unmatched entertainment value, noting their powerful performances, vibrant pop vocals, and radiant, positive energy as key reasons behind the decision. The group's deep bond—formed during their years of training and shared living experiences in the U.S.—also resonated with the film's themes of “ohana” (family) and friendship.

In the U.S. version of the film, the ending theme is produced by global superstar Bruno Mars, a native of Hawaii, and performed by Nyjah Music & Zyah Rhythm, an up-and-coming sibling duo also from Hawaii and related to Bruno. Travis Japan’s rendition adds a unique blend of passion and delicacy, giving the iconic Elvis tune a fresh life tailored for Japanese audiences.

The surprise announcement was delivered just before a live performance during their Travis Japan Concert Tour 2025 VIIsual at the end of March. In the backstage dressing room, the members—already excited by Nakamura’s role as David—were caught off guard when informed that they would also be singing the Japanese version of the ending song.

As staff shared the news, Nakamura reacted with wide-eyed disbelief, exclaiming, “What do you mean!?” The rest of the group erupted into high-fives and cheers. One member even quipped, “If Kaito hadn’t passed the audition, this wouldn’t have happened. Thank you!” to which the team responded with heartfelt applause.

“I’m truly honored,” said Nakamura. “I've loved Stitch since I was a kid—my first plush toy was Stitch. I’m overjoyed to be part of this live-action Lilo & Stitch film and to sing with Travis Japan in a Disney production. We’ll polish our vocals and give it our all to contribute to the magic of the movie.”

Comments from Travis Japan Members

Kaito Miyachika
“We were already thrilled just knowing that Kaito would be voicing a character in a live-action adaptation of something we all loved as kids. But to have Travis Japan also sing the ending theme—it’s such an honor. We’re thankful and excited to give it our best for the theater release!”

Kaito Nakamura
“I’m incredibly honored. I’ve loved Stitch since I was a child, and it was actually my first plush toy. I’m so happy to be part of the live-action Lilo & Stitch and to be able to sing as Travis Japan in a Disney film. We’ll do our best to refine our vocals and contribute meaningfully to the movie!”

Ryuya Shimekake
“I’m thrilled to be part of such a globally beloved project. We hope our song helps elevate the film and brings excitement to everyone.”

Noel Kawashima
“It’s a huge joy to perform ‘Burning Love’ for Lilo & Stitch. Just knowing that audiences will hear our voices in theaters is amazing—and now this exciting news makes my heart burn with joy!”

Shizuya Yoshizawa
“Disney animations are loved across all generations. I hope our version of ‘Burning Love’ as Travis Japan will also be loved by people of all ages!”

Genta Matsuda
“I’m super happy. I want to bring this song to everyone by combining the strength of all of Travis Japan.”

Kaito Matsukura
“Lilo & Stitch is such a well-loved film. It’s an honor for us to sing the ending theme, and we’re going to give it our all!”

Travis Japan to perform the Japanese ending theme for Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch

Source : ORICON NEWS