Written by Odawni Villahermosa | August 30, 2025

photos by Odawni Villahermosa

Tokyo’s nightlife is no stranger to international influence, but few nights managed to merge raw energy, local artistry, and global culture as seamlessly as when a lineup of Tokyo-based performers, Troop Brand, and Duke Deuce lit up R3 Club Lounge. For those looking to do more than simply stand around with a drink in hand, R3 once again proved itself as the spot in the city where the dance floor is the main event.

The evening began with homegrown talent. Local artists Stefani, 3liyen, Namliss, and Mike Larry Draw each took the stage, bringing their unique sounds and styles to an eager crowd. From Stefani’s smooth vocals to 3liyen’s sharp wordplay, every set showed just how diverse and dynamic Tokyo’s underground music scene has become. The audience was left warmed up and buzzing with anticipation. These performances made it clear: Tokyo’s artists are not simply opening acts—they are a creative force in their own right.

By the time Troop Brand stepped out, the atmosphere had already been primed. His set worked like lighter fluid on an already sparking fire. Blending clever lyricism with effortless stage presence, he had the crowd moving in unison, pulling everyone deeper into the night’s energy. Each track raised the stakes, building toward the explosive finale still to come.

Then, as the clock pushed deeper into the night, Duke Deuce stormed the stage and took everything to the next level. Known for his electrifying energy and movement-driven anthems, Duke delivered a performance that turned the club into a frenzy. His songs commanded the crowd to dance, and Tokyo’s audience responded in full force, matching his intensity beat for beat. From start to finish, his set was a masterclass in controlled chaos—the kind of performance that lingers long after the last track ends.

What made the night remarkable was not only the mix of international names. It was the way local and global voices shared the same stage, creating a cross-cultural dialogue through music. R3 Club Lounge has steadily become a hub for these moments, a place where Tokyo-based artists can sharpen their craft and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with internationally recognized performers.

The force behind this vision is organizer Heidi Molina-Batista, who has become known for curating some of Tokyo’s most high-energy events. Her work goes beyond simply booking artists; it is about creating community. That focus on connection gave the night a sense of purpose beyond the party.

Clubs are not typically thought of as spaces for conversation, but in between sets, dancers, fashion designers, photographers, and fellow musicians could be heard trading ideas and making plans. For Tokyo’s creative community, events like this are more than entertainment—they are fuel.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd filtered out into the Tokyo night, one thing was clear: R3 is not just a venue—it is a launchpad. For Stefani, 3liyen, Namliss, and Mike Larry Draw, it was a chance to shine before an international audience. For Troop Brand, it was the perfect setup to stoke the energy. And for Duke Deuce, it was the ultimate stage to unleash Atlanta’s unrelenting spirit.

If there was any doubt that R3 is Tokyo’s go-to destination for authentic, high-energy nights, this event erased it. The dance floor is alive, the music is global, and Tokyo’s creative future is already moving in rhythm.