Shôta Yasuda

Shôta Yasuda embarked on his journey with Johnny & Associates in 1997 alongside friends Ryo Nishikido and Tadayoshi Ōkura, with Ryūhei Maruyama also auditioning that same day. Their bond was forged during their time as Kansai Jr members, long before the formation of Kanjani8. Interestingly, Yasuda's older sister played a pivotal role in his entry, submitting his application with a note highlighting that he could "do anything" (nandemo dekiru).

In 1999, Yasuda became a guitarist for the popular Kansai Jr band V.WEST, which captured the hearts of Junior fans and had its own television program, Shuukan V.WEST (Weekly V.WEST), on Kansai TV. The show featured the members taking on various challenges to learn new skills, and Yasuda's versatility earned him the nickname "Nandemo dekiru-ko" (The kid that can do anything). His talent shone brightly during their first live performance at Zepp Osaka in 2001.

In 2002, after the dissolution of V.WEST, Yasuda, along with vocalists Hiroki Uchi and bassist Ryūhei Maruyama, transitioned into a new Kansai Jr unit called Kanjani8. They welcomed Tadayoshi Ōkura as the eighth member, who took over drumming duties following the departure of V.WEST's original drummer from Johnny's. This marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Yasuda and his fellow musicians.