From the island of Okinawa to global stages, this Japanese dancer built a career that crosses oceans. Born on June 11, 1979, she started in Naha and now works across continents. Her journey shows how talent can break through borders.
She earned the stage name “Music” while dancing as one of Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku Girls. The title fit her rhythm-driven approach perfectly. It marked the beginning of her international recognition.
Her work with Beat Freaks on America’s Best Dance Crew cemented her reputation. The group’s second-place finish showcased her powerful choreography skills. This led to major opportunities in both K-pop and J-pop.
Today, she shapes movement for top artists like Girls’ Generation and NCT 127. Her choreography defines the visual language of modern pop. The dancer continues to mentor and direct, leaving her mark on the industry.
Early Life and Dance Journey
At age eleven, a film about Michael Jackson planted a seed that would grow into a lifelong passion for movement. The dancer’s journey from Okinawa to international stages began with simple imitation and grew through determination.
Formative Years in Okinawa and Early Inspirations
Growing up in Naha provided access to American music videos that became her classroom. She spent hours mimicking Michael and Janet Jackson’s moves, developing her own rhythm and style.
Seeing Michael Jackson’s Dangerous World Tour live transformed inspiration into concrete ambition. The show demonstrated what professional dancers could achieve with dedication and skill.
Move to Los Angeles and First Steps into Dance
At nineteen, she moved to Los Angeles against family wishes. Her student visa limited her time to pursue the dance dream while studying cosmetology.
A chance cafe encounter with Janet Jackson’s choreographer changed everything. This lucky break led to a work visa and her first major role as a backup dancer.
| Early Influence | Age | Impact | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Jackson videos | Childhood | Self-taught foundation | Developed personal style |
| Moonwalker film | 11 years | Career inspiration | Set professional goal |
| Dangerous World Tour | Teen years | Live performance exposure | Stage ambition solidified |
| Move to Los Angeles | 19 years | Professional environment | Industry connections |
Professional Milestones and Career Highlights
Her professional ascent began with a major pop tour that would define her early career. This period marked the transition from dedicated dancer to recognized performer.
From Backup Dancer to Pop Icon Collaborator
In 2004, Britney Spears selected her as a backup dancer for the Onyx Hotel Tour. Janet Jackson, serving as a mentor, advised this strategic move to build industry connections.
The tour experience led to joining Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku Girls as “Music.” This role showcased her ability to embody character while maintaining technical precision.
She later joined the all-female dance crew Beat Freaks. The group competed on America’s Best Dance Crew, finishing as runners-up but gaining significant exposure.
Her versatility extended to briefly joining The Pussycat Dolls in 2010. Each group experience demonstrated her adaptability across different performance styles.
Choreography Breakthrough with K-pop and J-pop Artists
The dancer shifted focus from performer to choreographer in 2008. Her first major project involved South Korean boy band SHINee’s debut song “Replay.”
Her breakthrough came with Girls’ Generation’s “Genie” in 2009. Collaborating with SM Entertainment’s dance team, she created sharp, synchronized moves that defined the pop track.
Working from Los Angeles while choreographing for Asian artists presented unique challenges. She navigated time zones and cultural expectations, turning them into creative advantages.
Rino Nakasone: Impact and Influence in Dance & Music
From individual song choreography to full concert direction, her influence shaped the look and feel of modern pop performances. The choreographer brought a distinctive style that prioritized clean lines and synchronized precision.
Notable Choreographic Works and Performances
Her work with Girls’ Generation created iconic dances for hits like “Genie” and “The Boys.” These performances defined an era of K-pop visual language.
She crafted memorable moves for SHINee’s debut song “Replay” and subsequent tracks. Her choreography matched each group’s unique energy and concept.
The artist expanded her range across multiple pop groups including f(x), Red Velvet, and NCT 127. Each project showcased her ability to adapt to different music styles.
Beyond individual songs, she directed full concerts for major artists. This work involved overseeing stage flow and performance pacing for entire shows.
Awards, Recognition, and Cultural Influence
In 2015, Nakasone earned the Huading Award for Global Best Dancer-Actor. This recognition acknowledged her dual impact as performer and creator.
She expanded into musical theater with roles in “The Wiz” and “Asterisk.” These performances demonstrated her narrative-driven skills beyond concert stages.
As a dance trainer on PRODUCE 101 JAPAN, she mentored new generations of dancers. Her 2023 art book “Rinosophy” documented her creative philosophy for fans and peers.
Her influence made dance as central as music in global pop culture. The choreographer’s legacy continues through the artists she trained and the performances she shaped.
Final Reflections and Future Endeavors
The same dedication that shaped her career as a performer now fuels her commitment to mentoring the next generation. Her personal journey reflects this evolution, from her marriage to fellow dancer LeeJ Razalan in 2007 to their amicable separation five years later.
At age 43, she remarried in 2022, keeping her husband’s identity private while sharing the joyful detail of her dog Milo serving as ring bearer. This balance of privacy and warmth characterizes her approach to life beyond the stage.
Inspired by Janet Jackson’s mentorship, Nakasone now dedicates her time to training aspiring dancers. Her work on PRODUCE 101 JAPAN allows her to pass on the persistence that defined her own path.
Her appearance at KCON LA 2025 promoting auditions shows she remains a bridge between dreams and opportunity. The dancer’s legacy now lives through the confidence of those she teaches, fulfilling her larger dream of advancing the craft.
