Hitomi Arai Releases Cover of Classic Studio Ghibli Song "Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo"

Hitomi Arai is set to release a cover of the classic Studio Ghibli song "Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo" on November 25!

1980s-inspired idol Hitomi Arai made her debut in 2019, with a nostalgic image that recalls the youthful innocence of a bygone era. On November 25 she will release her third single, a cover of "Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo" ("Let’s Talk About the Old Days"), which was made famous by Tokiko Kato, who was a sensation in the 1980s with songs like "Hyakuman Bon no Bara" ("A Million Roses"). Kato’s version was previously used as the ending song in the classic Studio Ghibli animated movie "Porco Rosso".

The lyrics are about embracing your loved ones while pursuing your dreams, and looking back on warm memories of the freedom of youth. This timeless, emotional song will win the hearts of all those who face the future while yearning for times past.

The jacket artwork is designed with a tasteful ’80s aesthetic, while Arai’s spectacular outfit pays homage to Madame Gina, the chanson singer in "Porco Rosso". The single will be available as a standalone CD, or a set that includes the CD and a DVD with the music video and several live videos. The MV Teaser can be seen below!

Ahead of the release, Arai commented, “In these uncertain times, sometimes we all need to stop and take stock, to look back at our past, to focus on the good times and the things that are important to each of us. I hope you’ll find it helpful to do this too. I can’t wait for you to hear my version of a song that is so dear to my heart.”

Release Details
CD Single
Price: 1,100 yen (including tax)
Catalog number: AVCD-94941
01. Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo 
02. Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo (Instrumental)

CD + DVD set
Price: 3,300 yen (including tax)
Catalog number: AVCD-94940/B
CD:
01. Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo 
02. Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo (Instrumental)
DVD:
01. Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo Music Video
02. Hitomi Arai Live Video
01. Hitomi, Kourin
02. Koi no Mirage
03. Delicate ni Suki shite
04. Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo
03. Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo – Making Memories

Hitomi Arai Links:
Official website: https://avex.jp/araihitomi/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AraiHitomidesu