Tomoya Kanki developed his love for music at a young age. In junior high school, he joined his school’s brass band as part of the percussion section, playing instruments such as the tambourine and xylophone. This early exposure to rhythm laid the foundation for his future as a drummer.

In high school, Tomoya formed his first band and began performing more seriously. After graduation, he moved to Tokyo to pursue music and enrolled at ESP Musical Academy, one of Japan’s premier music schools. There, he mastered various drumming techniques and even worked as a drum instructor while performing with other bands. His connection to ONE OK ROCK came through an instructor who introduced him to the group when they were seeking a drummer. Initially joining as a support musician, Tomoya officially became a full-time member in 2007—just a month before the band’s major-label debut.

Tomoya’s drumming is a cornerstone of ONE OK ROCK’s sound, bringing technical precision and explosive energy to every track. Known for his powerful yet controlled style, he can effortlessly transition from aggressive double-kick patterns in heavier songs to subtle, groove-based rhythms in ballads. His adaptability has been essential as the band evolved from Japanese rock roots to a more international sound blending post-hardcore, alternative rock, and pop influences.

While primarily the drummer, Tomoya also contributes to the creative process. He co-wrote Deeper Deeper with Ryota, a track that highlights the synergy between drums and bass in driving the band’s intensity. His drumming approach emphasizes both technical skill and musicality, which has made him widely regarded as one of the most accomplished rock drummers in Japan. Fans and critics alike praise his ability to balance raw power with refined detail, elevating ONE OK ROCK’s live shows to world-class standards.

Tomoya’s drum setups have evolved throughout his career to match the band’s musical direction. In earlier years, he primarily used TAMA kits before switching to SJC Custom Drums, which became a defining feature of his onstage presence. More recently, he has favored DW (Drum Workshop) kits for their tonal clarity and versatility during live performances and recordings.

His setups often include:

• Dual 18×22 kick drums for powerful low-end impact
• Custom maple shells for a balanced tone
• A wide array of Zildjian cymbals, including K Custom Hybrid crashes and Oriental china cymbals for sharp, dynamic accents
• His own signature Wincent drumsticks, designed for durability and comfort during intense performances

Tomoya is also known for experimenting with LED-lit kits and bold, custom finishes that add visual flair to ONE OK ROCK’s arena shows.

Tomoya’s style blends Western rock influences with his formal percussion background. His drumming combines speed, precision, and creativity, making extensive use of double bass and intricate fills while maintaining a strong sense of groove. Critics have recognized him as a drummer who can adapt seamlessly to both heavy rock anthems and emotionally charged ballads, a versatility that has helped the band succeed internationally.

Beyond technical ability, Tomoya’s high-energy stage presence and reliability have made him the backbone of ONE OK ROCK’s live shows. His consistency and showmanship contribute to the band’s reputation for delivering some of the most electrifying performances in Japan’s rock scene.

Tomoya announced his marriage on June 9, 2017. He and his wife have three sons, born in November 2017, May 2019, and March 2021. Despite his busy schedule as an international touring musician, Tomoya often shares glimpses of family life and maintains a strong connection with fans through social media updates.