(MVA) — Rapper SWAY’s latest music video “Matane” released on YouTube (https://shorturl.at/xW1YH) was filmed on location on the island of Saipan in the Marianas, highlighting the artist’s affinity for the destination in a new fusion of music, entertainment, and tourism.
The initiative, supported by the Marianas Visitors Authority, highlights the island’s lush nature and warm community and is helping to spread awareness of the Marianas among younger audiences and the social media generation.
SWAY shared his thoughts about the filming during an interview at Tourism EXPO Japan 2025 in September in Aichi, Japan.
Q1. How was filming in Saipan?
A. Actually, the weather forecast called for rain both days, but it only rained a little on the first day, and the final day ended up completely dry. We got all the filming done and managed to do everything we planned, so it was perfect! I first came to Saipan in 2023, and after returning to Tokyo, I kept telling everyone, “Saipan was amazing! Do you want to go together?” This was my second time, and since it was for filming, I couldn’t do any sightseeing. But I really felt again how great Saipan’s climate and closeness are. I’m the type who gets a little greedy when there’s a lot I can do, so it’s just right — it’s an island where you can think, “Let’s take it easy, Let’s relax.” I definitely want to come back privately next time.
Q2. What kind of song is “Matane”?
A. When you’re in music, you get to visit lots of different cities. This song is about that feeling of genuinely wanting to say “See you again,” to the people you meet there, that desire to see them again. The lyrics include the phrase “in the room,” but for me, it doesn’t mean just a physical room. It means a space where you can feel at home. Filming the music video in Saipan this time felt like being in a huge room. There were chairs and furniture in various places, I met all kinds of people, and we parted ways promising, “We’ll definitely meet again.” And now, coming back to Saipan after two years — it feels like coming home, to my room.
Q3. What are your thoughts on spending your last summer in your 30s?
A. I’m turning 40 soon, but I want to spend even busier times than before. For me, it’s about finding the right balance between “busy Tokyo” and “relaxing Saipan.” I hope to keep living aggressively in my 40s with this good relationship between the two.
SWAY serves as MC for the five-member male group DOBERMAN INFINITY, formed in June 2014 with a lineup of 4 MCs and 1 vocalist. Beyond the group, he also participates in HONEST BOYZ® and pursues solo activities. In September 2025, he released his third solo album, PSYCHO JUNK. He continues to expand his activities across diverse fields including acting, modeling, design, and MC work.
Visitor arrivals from Japan to the Marianas have continued to increase over the last four months. The destination is especially popular among scuba and skin divers and golfers in Japan, with a high rate of repeat visits.
