ONE OK ROCK, also known as OOR and 10969 for short, is a Japanese band formed in Tokyo, Japan in 2005. Their name, read as “one o’clock” in Japanese, comes from the time the band used to practice together because studio rental costs were less expensive at 1AM.
Originally five members, the band’s current formation since 2009 consists of Taka on vocals, the leader Toru on guitar, Ryota on bass, and Tomoya on drums. Former members include drummer Yu Koyanagi and guitarist Alexander “Alex” Reimon Onizawa. Initially affiliated with talent agency Amuse, Inc. for over 10 years, the band established their own office named 10969 Inc. (pronounced “one oh nine six nine”) and left Amuse on April 1st, 2021. In the United States, they are signed with record label Fueled by Ramen. They have also released one record under Warner Bros. Records in the U.S.
Takahiro “Taka” Moriuchi. Born April 17, 1988 in Tokyo as the eldest son of famous enka singers Shinichi Mori and Masako Mori, Taka was originally part of the Johnny’s idol group NEWS but quit soon after their debut in 2003 to focus on his studies. Despite his father’s protests, he dropped out of high school in his first year to pursue a career in music. Taka writes most of the lyrics and melodies for the band’s songs, and his life experiences are often reflected in their music.
Toru Yamashita. Born in Osaka on December 7, 1988, Toru belonged to a hip-hop dance group in elementary school called HEADS with childhood friend and OOR bassist Ryota until it disbanded in 2002. In 2005, Toru started the rock band with Ryota, upperclassman Alex, and Alex’s friend Yu. Toru is the leader of ONE OK ROCK, and it was he who insisted that Taka join the band after seeing him perform. He is married to actress and model Aya Omasa.
Ryota Kohama. The youngest member of the band, Ryota was born September 4, 1989 in Osaka. After their dance group disbanded, Ryota agreed to join Toru’s new band despite not having much interest in a band or playing bass. This all changed after he listened to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Inspired by RHCP bassist Flea, he often performs on stage shirtless. Ryota is married to Avril Lavigne’s younger sister Michelle, with whom he has a daughter.
Tomoya Kanki. Born June 27, 1987 in Hyogo, Tomoya is the eldest member of the band and the last to join when he replaced former drummer Yu Koyanagi in 2007. With childish demeanor, he takes it upon himself to become the stress relief for the band members, which often results in him seemingly getting bullied. Tomoya is proficient with various percussion instruments and before joining OOR, attended ESP Music Academy. He is married and has three sons.