 ©UP-FRONT PROMOTION Co., Ltd. As we all know, Tamura Meimi of Hello! Project’s ANGERME will be graduating from the group, as well as Hello! Project as a whole in spring of 2016. She is doing this in order to start anew and refocus her training on becoming a musical actress. While Tamura is arguably the best vocalist in ANGERME, it can also be said that she is among the top vocalists in all of H!P as well. On top of her being a very talented singer, she is also one of the most capable actresses in the company as well. Put these two factors together and you get the phenomenon that is Tamura Meimi. Taking a brief look at Tamura’s family background, and her own personal experiences, one would not be surprised that she has both an interest in, as well as a skill in singing and performing in musicals. Her mother was a troupe organizer who also acted in Gunma Prefecture in Japan. Her elder sister is also an actress who had graduated from a music academy in early 2015 and joined Toho Ent. Tamura’s first public performance  ©UP-FRONT PROMOTION Co., Ltd. Tamura’s first noted public performance, was when she was just a mere 5 years old and a member of the Dodonpa Kids on March 27th 2004. This performance was during the concert tour of Japanese Enka singer Hikawa Kiyoshi, on the stage of the Okinawa Convention Center. Just 5 years later in 2009, Tamura was cast as Yuiki Yaya in the Shugo Chara musical. This would later prove to be what sparked Tamura’s interest in S/mileage (now ANGERME) and would lead to her audition in the future. Tamura would later become a member of S/mileage in 2011. Since her becoming a member, she has been part of a handful of stage plays and musicals through Hello! Project. One of the most notable musicals being LILIUM, as well as a solo musical put on by S/mileage called SMILE FANTASY. Tamura was given the opportunity to perform a solo number in each of these two musicals and was able to tackle the challenge tremendously! Although it is sad to see her go, there is no doubt in my mind that Tamura will be incredibly successful in her path to becoming a musical vocalist and actress. What kind of musicals would you like to see her perform in? Action? Romance? Comedy? She has the ability for them all so take your pick! Official Announcement: http://www.helloproject.com/news/4010/ Translation of Announcement via Up-Front Link: https://www.facebook.com/notes/up-front-link/en-announcement-concerning-meimi-tamura/991425097583074 Tamura Karen Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/tamurakaren Notable Performances By Tamura Meimi |
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A-To-J: What is your favorite song on the album “Who is callme?”
KOUMI: I like the song “Precious”. I rap in English in the song. I wrote the lyrics for it. It was my first song that had a lot of English in it. I think it made a great opportunity for people outside of Japan, such as people in Los Angeles and other overseas countries, to listen to the song. So that’s why I enjoy the song!
MIMORI: My favorite song is “Just Trust”. This song was inspired by games. I composed the song when I was thinking how its ilke playing an RPG. The theme of the song is “new beginning from an ending” so I think people that like games will understand the song.
RUUNA: My favorite song is the title song, “step by step”. The lyric “step by step” is repeated throughout the song so I think people overseas will be able to remember it easier so I will love for them listen to it!
A-To-J: If you had to describe your sound of the song “Precious” to someone who hadn’t heard it before, how would you describe it?
KOUMI: I want them to pay attention to the theme of the song which is the warmth or love from people and its romantic lyrics
A-To-J: Which song was the most fun to work on?
MIMORI: Song that was most fun to work on… Well there’s a song called “I’m Alone” and it was fun in different ways. This song is a breakup song but we have never experienced a breakup before… We were thinking how to understand the feelings of a breakup so we simulated breakups within the members. (Laughs) We pretended to be girlfriend and boyfriend and broke up…
RUUNA: We made situations as if we were in a drama and made the song so it was pretty fun.
A-To-J: What is your favorite song to perform live?
MIMORI: This has to be the title song, “step by step” because it gets hyped up. When the audience cheers for us, they sing a part of the song that goes “Oh-eh-oh oh oh~” with us. I feel the unity and it makes it very fun!
A-To-J: Which song was the most challenging to work on?
RUUNA: We have a song called “Be Myself” and it was the hardest song of the album. We hadn’t worked on the lyrics all together since the debut single. The theme of the song was “life” and it was such a grand theme. We couldn’t agree with one thing and so it took the most time to write the lyrics. Till the very end there were many different ideas and we worked hard on the song.
A-To-J: As leader, are there any challenges that you never expected, Ruuna-san?
RUUNA: All of us in callme are O blood type. Same age and O blood type so we’re a bunch of free spirited people. It’s great that we’re all different but our opinions don’t get together well often… So it’s hard to gather all the good parts from each of us, every time. But we do try to make it up by working hard to make something great, so I think its fine.
A-To-J: Mimori-san, where did you learn to compose music?
MIMORI: I started composing as a hobby and at the time I was imitating my favorite songwriter as I was composing my music. There were a lot of things I didn’t know about composing when I started doing it for callme. Our arranger taught me a lot of things such as DTM (Desktop Music) and I’m using that knowledge for composing.
A-To-J: Did you ever think that you’d be able consistently compose your own music when you first entered into the industry?
MIMORI: I didn’t think I would be composing in the beginning. However, as I entered this industry, I started love music more and felt that it was really fun. Then I started wanting to make my own music and started composing so I didn’t think I would be doing this when I first entered into the industry.
A-To-J: Koumi-san, the choreography you do flows really nicely. What kinds of styles or people inspire you?
KOUMI: Specifically, there’s a Korean group called “2NE1” and they really enjoy their lives. Instead of trying to only synchronize with the rest of the members, I can feel that that each member enjoys performing and that makes their fans enjoy the live as well. That is what I felt when I went to go see their live and it made me feel how important that is so I use it as reference.
KOUMI: I like the song “Precious”. I rap in English in the song. I wrote the lyrics for it. It was my first song that had a lot of English in it. I think it made a great opportunity for people outside of Japan, such as people in Los Angeles and other overseas countries, to listen to the song. So that’s why I enjoy the song!
MIMORI: My favorite song is “Just Trust”. This song was inspired by games. I composed the song when I was thinking how its ilke playing an RPG. The theme of the song is “new beginning from an ending” so I think people that like games will understand the song.
RUUNA: My favorite song is the title song, “step by step”. The lyric “step by step” is repeated throughout the song so I think people overseas will be able to remember it easier so I will love for them listen to it!
A-To-J: If you had to describe your sound of the song “Precious” to someone who hadn’t heard it before, how would you describe it?
KOUMI: I want them to pay attention to the theme of the song which is the warmth or love from people and its romantic lyrics
A-To-J: Which song was the most fun to work on?
MIMORI: Song that was most fun to work on… Well there’s a song called “I’m Alone” and it was fun in different ways. This song is a breakup song but we have never experienced a breakup before… We were thinking how to understand the feelings of a breakup so we simulated breakups within the members. (Laughs) We pretended to be girlfriend and boyfriend and broke up…
RUUNA: We made situations as if we were in a drama and made the song so it was pretty fun.
A-To-J: What is your favorite song to perform live?
MIMORI: This has to be the title song, “step by step” because it gets hyped up. When the audience cheers for us, they sing a part of the song that goes “Oh-eh-oh oh oh~” with us. I feel the unity and it makes it very fun!
A-To-J: Which song was the most challenging to work on?
RUUNA: We have a song called “Be Myself” and it was the hardest song of the album. We hadn’t worked on the lyrics all together since the debut single. The theme of the song was “life” and it was such a grand theme. We couldn’t agree with one thing and so it took the most time to write the lyrics. Till the very end there were many different ideas and we worked hard on the song.
A-To-J: As leader, are there any challenges that you never expected, Ruuna-san?
RUUNA: All of us in callme are O blood type. Same age and O blood type so we’re a bunch of free spirited people. It’s great that we’re all different but our opinions don’t get together well often… So it’s hard to gather all the good parts from each of us, every time. But we do try to make it up by working hard to make something great, so I think its fine.
A-To-J: Mimori-san, where did you learn to compose music?
MIMORI: I started composing as a hobby and at the time I was imitating my favorite songwriter as I was composing my music. There were a lot of things I didn’t know about composing when I started doing it for callme. Our arranger taught me a lot of things such as DTM (Desktop Music) and I’m using that knowledge for composing.
A-To-J: Did you ever think that you’d be able consistently compose your own music when you first entered into the industry?
MIMORI: I didn’t think I would be composing in the beginning. However, as I entered this industry, I started love music more and felt that it was really fun. Then I started wanting to make my own music and started composing so I didn’t think I would be doing this when I first entered into the industry.
A-To-J: Koumi-san, the choreography you do flows really nicely. What kinds of styles or people inspire you?
KOUMI: Specifically, there’s a Korean group called “2NE1” and they really enjoy their lives. Instead of trying to only synchronize with the rest of the members, I can feel that that each member enjoys performing and that makes their fans enjoy the live as well. That is what I felt when I went to go see their live and it made me feel how important that is so I use it as reference.
A-To-J: You’re also pretty skilled in English. Why did you decide to learn English, of all the language choices you had?
KOUMI: I liked songs in English and also movies in English so I wanted to understand English. I also wanted to communicate with many people overseas and wanted to share our cultures so I decided to study English.
A-To-J: Are there any specific languages the members of callme would want to learn besides English?
KOUMI: I want to learn Spanish. I think Spanish is spoken in many countries so I wanted to expand in countries that don’t just speak English but Spanish as well.
MIMORI: I want to learn French. I can’t speak much English yet but I want to learn many things before going overseas.
RUUNA: I want to learn Chinese. I really like fried rice and I heard there are Chinatowns all over the world so I want to visit them. I feel like I need to learn Chinese in order to do so, so I want to learn the language.
A-To-J: Have you ever thought about singing in any of these other languages?
RUUNA: We want to make a song with many different languages and sing it at many different countries.
A-To-J: Being self-produced is very uncommon, especially from people who come from idol groups. How do you feel like this unique feature will interest more people?
MIMORI: Since we make things on our own, we share the feelings we put into our songs and I think we can convey that from our hearts, therefore I think we can also reach their heart with our music.
A-To-J: What kinds of challenges do you face, being completely self-produced?
RUUNA: Since we make our music, we get attached to each song so it’s hard to see the song objectively. We try to work this out with the three of us; for example if I, RUUNA, make the lyrics for a song, I have the other two look at it objectively for me and get advice.
The second half of our interview with callme will be posted soon! Keep an eye out for it and for other news on callme! The video for the newest single and relevant links can be found below!
The above interview was conducted by Teepu Khan with direction by Manuel Figueroa. On-site and post translation by Tiffany Fujii.
Official pictures courtesy of avex
KOUMI: I liked songs in English and also movies in English so I wanted to understand English. I also wanted to communicate with many people overseas and wanted to share our cultures so I decided to study English.
A-To-J: Are there any specific languages the members of callme would want to learn besides English?
KOUMI: I want to learn Spanish. I think Spanish is spoken in many countries so I wanted to expand in countries that don’t just speak English but Spanish as well.
MIMORI: I want to learn French. I can’t speak much English yet but I want to learn many things before going overseas.
RUUNA: I want to learn Chinese. I really like fried rice and I heard there are Chinatowns all over the world so I want to visit them. I feel like I need to learn Chinese in order to do so, so I want to learn the language.
A-To-J: Have you ever thought about singing in any of these other languages?
RUUNA: We want to make a song with many different languages and sing it at many different countries.
A-To-J: Being self-produced is very uncommon, especially from people who come from idol groups. How do you feel like this unique feature will interest more people?
MIMORI: Since we make things on our own, we share the feelings we put into our songs and I think we can convey that from our hearts, therefore I think we can also reach their heart with our music.
A-To-J: What kinds of challenges do you face, being completely self-produced?
RUUNA: Since we make our music, we get attached to each song so it’s hard to see the song objectively. We try to work this out with the three of us; for example if I, RUUNA, make the lyrics for a song, I have the other two look at it objectively for me and get advice.
The second half of our interview with callme will be posted soon! Keep an eye out for it and for other news on callme! The video for the newest single and relevant links can be found below!
The above interview was conducted by Teepu Khan with direction by Manuel Figueroa. On-site and post translation by Tiffany Fujii.
Official pictures courtesy of avex
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callme - step by step
callme is:
- Akimoto Ruuna (秋元瑠海)
- Tominaga Mimori (富永美杜)
- Hayasaka Koumi (早坂香美)
For More Information:
callme’s Official Site: http://avex.jp/callme/
callme’s Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/callme_official
callme’s Official Instagram: https://instagram.com/callme_official/
callme on mumo Shop: http://shop.mu-mo.net/avx/sv/list1?jsiteid=MSW&artist_id=CALLM
callme on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/callme/id968272102
callme on cdjapan: http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/person/700706365
- Akimoto Ruuna (秋元瑠海)
- Tominaga Mimori (富永美杜)
- Hayasaka Koumi (早坂香美)
For More Information:
callme’s Official Site: http://avex.jp/callme/
callme’s Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/callme_official
callme’s Official Instagram: https://instagram.com/callme_official/
callme on mumo Shop: http://shop.mu-mo.net/avx/sv/list1?jsiteid=MSW&artist_id=CALLM
callme on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/callme/id968272102
callme on cdjapan: http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/person/700706365
©UP-FRONT PROMOTION Co., Ltd.
Meimi Tamura, 2nd generation member of ANGERME, has just announced that she will be graduating this coming spring of 2016. She said that she wants to pursue a career as a musical actress. Meimi has oftentimes been referred to as the strongest singer in ANGERME, so this goal suits her perfectly. No official date or information for the graduation has been released yet.
Meimi joined S/mileage (later rebranded as ANGERME) on August 14, 2011 alongside Kana Nakanishi, Akari Takeuchi and Rina Katsuta. Since then, she has grown as an entertainer and especially as a singer. She’s oftentimes been the heart of the musicals she’s performed in, with her (arguably) best performance in the musical ‘Lilium’.
With the recent departure of beloved member Kanon Fukuda, this most certainly comes as tough news to stomach for ANGERME fans. That being said, she will likely have a very promising future. We should all do our best to support her and also continue to support ANGERME as they hopefully continue their stride of success.
Here’s to Meimi!
-Teepu
ANGERME is:
- Wada Ayaka (和田彩花; 1st Generation) Leader
- Nakanishi Kana (中西香菜; 2nd Generation) Sub-Leader
- Takeuchi Akari (竹内朱莉; 2nd Generation) Sub-Leader
- Katsuta Rina (勝田里奈; 2nd Generation)
- Tamura Meimi (田村芽実; 2nd Generation)
- Murota Mizuki (室田瑞希; 3rd Generation)
- Aikawa Maho (相川茉穂; 3rd Generation)
- Sasaki Rikako (佐々木莉佳子; 3rd Generation)
- Kamikokuryo Moe (上國料萌衣; 4th Generation)
Official Announcement: http://www.helloproject.com/news/4010/
Translation of Announcement by Up-Front Link: https://www.facebook.com/notes/up-front-link/en-announcement-concerning-meimi-tamura/991425097583074
Meimi joined S/mileage (later rebranded as ANGERME) on August 14, 2011 alongside Kana Nakanishi, Akari Takeuchi and Rina Katsuta. Since then, she has grown as an entertainer and especially as a singer. She’s oftentimes been the heart of the musicals she’s performed in, with her (arguably) best performance in the musical ‘Lilium’.
With the recent departure of beloved member Kanon Fukuda, this most certainly comes as tough news to stomach for ANGERME fans. That being said, she will likely have a very promising future. We should all do our best to support her and also continue to support ANGERME as they hopefully continue their stride of success.
Here’s to Meimi!
-Teepu
ANGERME is:
- Wada Ayaka (和田彩花; 1st Generation) Leader
- Nakanishi Kana (中西香菜; 2nd Generation) Sub-Leader
- Takeuchi Akari (竹内朱莉; 2nd Generation) Sub-Leader
- Katsuta Rina (勝田里奈; 2nd Generation)
- Tamura Meimi (田村芽実; 2nd Generation)
- Murota Mizuki (室田瑞希; 3rd Generation)
- Aikawa Maho (相川茉穂; 3rd Generation)
- Sasaki Rikako (佐々木莉佳子; 3rd Generation)
- Kamikokuryo Moe (上國料萌衣; 4th Generation)
Official Announcement: http://www.helloproject.com/news/4010/
Translation of Announcement by Up-Front Link: https://www.facebook.com/notes/up-front-link/en-announcement-concerning-meimi-tamura/991425097583074
While at Japan Expo A-To-J Connections was lucky enough to sit down with Linkstar's at Japan Expo LA and talk about their experiences in the US and their unique take on the idol music genre.
Linkstar's is an idol group that debuted in 2013 and currently has four members. They specialize in strong performances that get their crowds hyped with their high energy singing and dancing!! Besides their activities as music artists, they also participate in various projects such as TV, film, and magazine appearances, both as a group and as individuals. Their performances at Japan Expo LA mark their first overseas debut. Their recent single "Linkstar" is available through various outlets in two versions. More links can be found at the end of the article.
A-To-J: Thank you for the opportunity for the interview! Please introduce yourselves.
Haru: I’m Linkstar’s oldest member, Haru Ootomo and my emblem is a ribbon! Nice to meet you.
Arisa: I’m Arisa Matsunaga and my emblem is a star! Nice to meet you.
Hinano: I’m Linkstar’s leader, Hinano Ayakawa. My emblem is a strawberry! My throat is a little hoarse but nice to meet you!
Mana: My emblem is wings and I’m the youngest of the group, Mana Haneda! Nice to meet you.
Linkstar's: We are Linkstar's!
A-To-J: How are you liking it in America so far?
Hinano: It's really cool!
Haru: We've been enjoying ourselves!
A-To-J: What did you like most about it here?
Hinano: Everything!
Haru: The food was really big! All of it was really tasty and yummy too!
A-To-J: What is your favorite food here?
Haru: We really liked the candy!
A-To-J: Are there any music artists, Japanese or otherwise, you would like to collaborate with?
Hinano: Taylor Swift!
A-To-J: Can you tell us a little bit about your name “Linkstar’s” and the theme of Linkstar’s?
Arisa: Its very free!
Hinano: “Freestyle”!
Arisa: Yes, “Freestyle”! (Nods)
A-To-J: Can you tell us about your most recent work, music-wise? Such as your recent single or song?
Arisa: We released our new single, “Linkstar” in June! Our group name is “Linkstar’s” and the CD title is “Linkstar”
Hinano: A-type and B-type… theres two types!
A-To-J: What is your favorite song in “Linkstar”?
Hinano: “Linkstar”! (the title song)
Arisa: It’s a masterpiece! The lyrics are great and you get happy and get positive power listening to this song.
Linkstar's is an idol group that debuted in 2013 and currently has four members. They specialize in strong performances that get their crowds hyped with their high energy singing and dancing!! Besides their activities as music artists, they also participate in various projects such as TV, film, and magazine appearances, both as a group and as individuals. Their performances at Japan Expo LA mark their first overseas debut. Their recent single "Linkstar" is available through various outlets in two versions. More links can be found at the end of the article.
A-To-J: Thank you for the opportunity for the interview! Please introduce yourselves.
Haru: I’m Linkstar’s oldest member, Haru Ootomo and my emblem is a ribbon! Nice to meet you.
Arisa: I’m Arisa Matsunaga and my emblem is a star! Nice to meet you.
Hinano: I’m Linkstar’s leader, Hinano Ayakawa. My emblem is a strawberry! My throat is a little hoarse but nice to meet you!
Mana: My emblem is wings and I’m the youngest of the group, Mana Haneda! Nice to meet you.
Linkstar's: We are Linkstar's!
A-To-J: How are you liking it in America so far?
Hinano: It's really cool!
Haru: We've been enjoying ourselves!
A-To-J: What did you like most about it here?
Hinano: Everything!
Haru: The food was really big! All of it was really tasty and yummy too!
A-To-J: What is your favorite food here?
Haru: We really liked the candy!
A-To-J: Are there any music artists, Japanese or otherwise, you would like to collaborate with?
Hinano: Taylor Swift!
A-To-J: Can you tell us a little bit about your name “Linkstar’s” and the theme of Linkstar’s?
Arisa: Its very free!
Hinano: “Freestyle”!
Arisa: Yes, “Freestyle”! (Nods)
A-To-J: Can you tell us about your most recent work, music-wise? Such as your recent single or song?
Arisa: We released our new single, “Linkstar” in June! Our group name is “Linkstar’s” and the CD title is “Linkstar”
Hinano: A-type and B-type… theres two types!
A-To-J: What is your favorite song in “Linkstar”?
Hinano: “Linkstar”! (the title song)
Arisa: It’s a masterpiece! The lyrics are great and you get happy and get positive power listening to this song.
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A-To-J: What are your thoughts about performing here in the US?
Haru: We were worried at first because of the language barrier… but we used body language and our smiles. It was very fun!
Arisa: Everyone gets hyped easily, so if she say “fuu~!” everyone also says “fuu~!” It was a very fun first overseas live.
Linkstar’s: Thank you very much! [For the fun live]
A-To-J: Can you tell us how all of you came to become Linkstar’s?
Haru: We formed 3 years ago… and she (Mana) is the newest member!
Arisa: She joined in March and we kind of ended up together… yea! (Laughs)
Hinano: We were brought together [by others]. We’re the chosen ones! (Points finger to the sky)
A-To-J: Are you guys fans of anime?
Hinano: (Raises hand) “Me”!
A-To-J: Whats your favorite anime?
Hinano: Rozen Maiden!
A-To-J: Can you tell us more about your time here in LA?
Arisa: Since the language is here is very different from Japan, we gesture a lot and it’s kind of exciting!
A-To-J: What about the fans? How are they different than those in Japan?
Haru: They are all very friendly!
Hinano: Yes! They also all had a lot of energy and moved a lot!
Haru: Yeah, in general all the US fans were very nice and we hope to be able to come back!
A-To-J: Are you fans of any other idol groups?
Arisa: Yea!
A-To-J: Which ones?
Arisa: Momoiro Clover Z!
Haru: I like Passpo.
Hinano: Me? I like myself! (Gestures a thumbs up)
Mana: I like Morning Musume.
A-To-J: Do you have any funny stories of when you were performing?
Hinano: I was trying to do a somersault like move but…
Haru: But she tripped! Bam!
Hinano: Not really tripped, but I fell on my butt!
Haru: We’ve also had times where we bumped into each other.
A-To-J: Were you still able to perform okay after falling?
Hinano: It hurt a lot!
Arisa: Also, when we were performing, my mic flew out of my hands!
Haru: And then her shoe flew off too!
Arisa: It did!
Haru: We were worried at first because of the language barrier… but we used body language and our smiles. It was very fun!
Arisa: Everyone gets hyped easily, so if she say “fuu~!” everyone also says “fuu~!” It was a very fun first overseas live.
Linkstar’s: Thank you very much! [For the fun live]
A-To-J: Can you tell us how all of you came to become Linkstar’s?
Haru: We formed 3 years ago… and she (Mana) is the newest member!
Arisa: She joined in March and we kind of ended up together… yea! (Laughs)
Hinano: We were brought together [by others]. We’re the chosen ones! (Points finger to the sky)
A-To-J: Are you guys fans of anime?
Hinano: (Raises hand) “Me”!
A-To-J: Whats your favorite anime?
Hinano: Rozen Maiden!
A-To-J: Can you tell us more about your time here in LA?
Arisa: Since the language is here is very different from Japan, we gesture a lot and it’s kind of exciting!
A-To-J: What about the fans? How are they different than those in Japan?
Haru: They are all very friendly!
Hinano: Yes! They also all had a lot of energy and moved a lot!
Haru: Yeah, in general all the US fans were very nice and we hope to be able to come back!
A-To-J: Are you fans of any other idol groups?
Arisa: Yea!
A-To-J: Which ones?
Arisa: Momoiro Clover Z!
Haru: I like Passpo.
Hinano: Me? I like myself! (Gestures a thumbs up)
Mana: I like Morning Musume.
A-To-J: Do you have any funny stories of when you were performing?
Hinano: I was trying to do a somersault like move but…
Haru: But she tripped! Bam!
Hinano: Not really tripped, but I fell on my butt!
Haru: We’ve also had times where we bumped into each other.
A-To-J: Were you still able to perform okay after falling?
Hinano: It hurt a lot!
Arisa: Also, when we were performing, my mic flew out of my hands!
Haru: And then her shoe flew off too!
Arisa: It did!
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A-To-J: Have you performed in other countries?
Linkstar’s: No!
A-To-J: Where would you like to perform overseas?
Haru: France!
Hinano: Yes!
Haru: And… world tour!!
Linkstar’s: Fuuu!!
A-To-J: Where can we find more information about Linkstar’s?
Hinano: Twitter!
Arisa: We have an official Twitter account, please “follow me”!
Hinano: @LINKS_OnAir! We also have LINE account, so you can message us!
A-To-J: Can we message you and you’ll reply back?
Haru: Yes!
A-To-J: What are you plans after this?
Haru: Since we'll still be here, we plan to go shopping and other fun things!
Arisa: We'll also eat!
A-To-J: Lastly, can you please give us a closing message.
Haru: I’m very happy we were able to come to LA for the first time. We’re going to try hard to be able to come back, so please keep an eye on us!
Arisa: We’ve never done lives outside of Japan but we were able to perform overseas for the first time. I’m very happy that we were able to come here to LA and do our first overseas live, it was fun! Thank you!
Hinano: This was our first overseas live and we got to do it in LA! I was excited before we came here but I ended up with this voice (from her hoarse throat) and I’m disappointed! However, I had a lot of fun and enjoyed it here! “Very happy!” Thank you very much!
Mana: We got to do our first overseas live in LA and I now love LA! Thank you very much!
To find out more about Linstar's visit them at:
Website: linkstar-s.com
Twitter: twitter.com/LINKS_OnAir
Blog: lineblog.me/linkstars
The above interview was conducted by Manuel Figueroa with assistance by Molly Ring and filming by Eunice Wang. Post translation by Tiffany Fujii.
Linkstar’s: No!
A-To-J: Where would you like to perform overseas?
Haru: France!
Hinano: Yes!
Haru: And… world tour!!
Linkstar’s: Fuuu!!
A-To-J: Where can we find more information about Linkstar’s?
Hinano: Twitter!
Arisa: We have an official Twitter account, please “follow me”!
Hinano: @LINKS_OnAir! We also have LINE account, so you can message us!
A-To-J: Can we message you and you’ll reply back?
Haru: Yes!
A-To-J: What are you plans after this?
Haru: Since we'll still be here, we plan to go shopping and other fun things!
Arisa: We'll also eat!
A-To-J: Lastly, can you please give us a closing message.
Haru: I’m very happy we were able to come to LA for the first time. We’re going to try hard to be able to come back, so please keep an eye on us!
Arisa: We’ve never done lives outside of Japan but we were able to perform overseas for the first time. I’m very happy that we were able to come here to LA and do our first overseas live, it was fun! Thank you!
Hinano: This was our first overseas live and we got to do it in LA! I was excited before we came here but I ended up with this voice (from her hoarse throat) and I’m disappointed! However, I had a lot of fun and enjoyed it here! “Very happy!” Thank you very much!
Mana: We got to do our first overseas live in LA and I now love LA! Thank you very much!
To find out more about Linstar's visit them at:
Website: linkstar-s.com
Twitter: twitter.com/LINKS_OnAir
Blog: lineblog.me/linkstars
The above interview was conducted by Manuel Figueroa with assistance by Molly Ring and filming by Eunice Wang. Post translation by Tiffany Fujii.
Linkstar 's- Linkstar
What a year 2015 has been. There were so many highs, a few lows, and yes, so many idol songs. I would say this was a year that I stood a little apart from the whole AKB48/Nogizaka46 line and went towards other idol groups, and boy were there a lot of idol groups.
The main reason why I want to write this article is because there are five idol songs released this year that all share a special story. Each song defines my 2015, and I am willing to tell you exactly why. If you want you can give all five of these songs a listen! Just make sure you can find a way around YouTube’s prohibition on Japanese pop music, because one out of these five is unavailable. [Editor's Note: This may be worked out in the future]
No, this is not a “Top Five” list.
Let me lay one important thing about this article: this is an idols only set. Unfortunately, that means no Kyary Pamyu Pamyu or Perfume on this list, which is a shame because I would definitely include “KISEKAE” by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and “STAR TRAIN” by Perfume easily on this list…but without further ado, here are five idol songs that shaped my 2015.
The main reason why I want to write this article is because there are five idol songs released this year that all share a special story. Each song defines my 2015, and I am willing to tell you exactly why. If you want you can give all five of these songs a listen! Just make sure you can find a way around YouTube’s prohibition on Japanese pop music, because one out of these five is unavailable. [Editor's Note: This may be worked out in the future]
No, this is not a “Top Five” list.
Let me lay one important thing about this article: this is an idols only set. Unfortunately, that means no Kyary Pamyu Pamyu or Perfume on this list, which is a shame because I would definitely include “KISEKAE” by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and “STAR TRAIN” by Perfume easily on this list…but without further ado, here are five idol songs that shaped my 2015.
“Akiba Romance” – Hiiragi Rio
This year was the first time I visited the Japan Expo in Los Angeles. Despite the rather weak turnout, the event overall was a fun experience. The real star of the show was definitely the idol performances. From some up and coming acts (Linkstar’s, Roli Angels) to some more well known acts (Cheeky Parade), the idol performances as a whole were a sight to behold. Despite the variety, the best performance in my book was Hiiragi Rio. Let’s just say that she has an idol song that celebrates otaku and wota culture. The real hook behind the song is that it is one of the bounciest songs you will ever listen to. Even when Hiiragi Rio was performing this live, you couldn’t help but to rock back and forth during the chorus.
Fortunately, this song was not blocked in the United States. Give it a try!
Fortunately, this song was not blocked in the United States. Give it a try!
“Halloween Night” – AKB48
Because I am an honest fan of AKB48, at least one of their singles had to be here. What better way than the Sousenkyo single for 2015?
Let me tell you the story about this one. A few of my friends had a get together for the Sousenkyo election, as we counted down every member who ranked. Most of us wanted someone other than Sashihara Rino to take the crown, but she won in a completely dominating fashion. The night overall was fun and exciting, most especially due to the reactions we had over every entry.
Fast forward to a few months later and the first performance of “Halloween Night” happens. At first it sounded a little weak and almost like a B-side, but like most AKB48 songs this one grew on me. This had a disco feel and I have a thing for 70’s disco. It even came with a dance routine! Of course, I jumped right on this and my friends and I filmed the routine to present to AKB48 management. It took several tries to get all of the steps, as this dance routine was not as easy as “Koi Suru Fortune Cookie” or “Kokoro no Placard”.
Unfortunately, the recent YouTube prohibition hit AKB48 the hardest, and nothing is available on AKB48’s official account to American fans. Looks like I may never see how the “Halloween Night” routine turned out…
Let me tell you the story about this one. A few of my friends had a get together for the Sousenkyo election, as we counted down every member who ranked. Most of us wanted someone other than Sashihara Rino to take the crown, but she won in a completely dominating fashion. The night overall was fun and exciting, most especially due to the reactions we had over every entry.
Fast forward to a few months later and the first performance of “Halloween Night” happens. At first it sounded a little weak and almost like a B-side, but like most AKB48 songs this one grew on me. This had a disco feel and I have a thing for 70’s disco. It even came with a dance routine! Of course, I jumped right on this and my friends and I filmed the routine to present to AKB48 management. It took several tries to get all of the steps, as this dance routine was not as easy as “Koi Suru Fortune Cookie” or “Kokoro no Placard”.
Unfortunately, the recent YouTube prohibition hit AKB48 the hardest, and nothing is available on AKB48’s official account to American fans. Looks like I may never see how the “Halloween Night” routine turned out…
“Kimi ga Ite Boku ga Ita” – Rev. from DVL
Throughout 2014 and 2015, I heard rumors of some idol who was one who showed up “every 1000 years”. Of course, I grew kind of curious as to who this “Idol of 1000 Years” was. I found out it was a girl named Hashimoto Kanna, and that one image can give you that title.
This was the first year I have one of Rev. from DVL’s songs a listen. I did like what I was listening to, and I will admit that Hashimoto Kanna was able to stand out in the music video. Let me just say that I did jump on the Hashimoto Kanna bandwagon and am not ashamed to have done so.
I feel like the more I talk about Hashimoto Kanna, the more I am doing a disservice to the other idols in the lineup…but really, the only person whose aura resonates in my book is Hashimoto Kanna. She is more of an idol cyborg than Watanabe Mayu, and that’s saying something.
Surprisingly, Rev. from DVL is not blocked on YouTube, so take a look.
This was the first year I have one of Rev. from DVL’s songs a listen. I did like what I was listening to, and I will admit that Hashimoto Kanna was able to stand out in the music video. Let me just say that I did jump on the Hashimoto Kanna bandwagon and am not ashamed to have done so.
I feel like the more I talk about Hashimoto Kanna, the more I am doing a disservice to the other idols in the lineup…but really, the only person whose aura resonates in my book is Hashimoto Kanna. She is more of an idol cyborg than Watanabe Mayu, and that’s saying something.
Surprisingly, Rev. from DVL is not blocked on YouTube, so take a look.
“Ima, Hanashitai Dareka ga Iru” – Nogizaka46
With Nogizaka46 receiving one of the biggest snubs on the NHK Kouhaku the previous year, they had to make a statement. With three releases throughout the year, a baseball-based comedy/drama, and a slew of new shows, Nogizaka46 was a lock for NHK Kouhaku this year. No scandals even got in the way this time.
There was a reason why I picked “Ima, Hanashitai Dareka ga Iru” over the other two singles. I would say “Inochi wa Utsukushii” sounded powerful and a tad dark, and “Taiyou Knock” was bright and energetic. Then we get to this single, and basically everything that this song is used for makes you cry. This song was used for the animated film, The Anthem of the Heart. Even watching the trailer of the film makes you want to tear up! Then there’s the music video, which makes you tear up even more than that.
I swear that a good chunk of singles Nishino Nanase centered for will probably make you want to tear up. There was “Kidzuitara Kataomoi”, and now there is this.
Unfortunately with Nogizaka46, all of their main channel videos are blocked, and this was before the big YouTube prohibition. The good thing is that Sony Music Taiwan has the music video available.
There was a reason why I picked “Ima, Hanashitai Dareka ga Iru” over the other two singles. I would say “Inochi wa Utsukushii” sounded powerful and a tad dark, and “Taiyou Knock” was bright and energetic. Then we get to this single, and basically everything that this song is used for makes you cry. This song was used for the animated film, The Anthem of the Heart. Even watching the trailer of the film makes you want to tear up! Then there’s the music video, which makes you tear up even more than that.
I swear that a good chunk of singles Nishino Nanase centered for will probably make you want to tear up. There was “Kidzuitara Kataomoi”, and now there is this.
Unfortunately with Nogizaka46, all of their main channel videos are blocked, and this was before the big YouTube prohibition. The good thing is that Sony Music Taiwan has the music video available.
“Icchatte♪Yacchatte♪” – SUPER☆GiRLS
2015 was a year where I expanded my knowledge of J-Pop groups and idol groups. There were plenty of groups I discovered this year alone, with Musubizm, Cheeky Parade, FES☆TIVE, and Keyakizaka46 to name a few. Then there was this group, SUPER☆GiRLS.
How I discovered SUPER☆GiRLS involves a web show that I wanted to be a part of. On the web show “Basugasubakuhatsu the TV”, I wanted to be a guest host and watch some idol videos while giving commentary. One of the videos was “Icchatte♪Yacchatte♪”, and I got hooked to this song once I heard it. I also found a SUPER☆GiRLS oshi right off the bat in Tanaka Mirei. Perhaps it was her smile or perhaps it was because she was an amazing center in this song. Either way, she became my SUPER☆GiRLS oshi right away, and it does not look like that will change anytime soon. I mean, I spent a good few weeks trying to find her photobook, and only found out that it has been out of print for a year…but I digress.
The song itself was joyful and gave a very bright summer vibe whenever I played it. It also helped that 90% of the video is of the members in bikinis, so of course that got my attention. Keep in mind that the video posted below is not exactly safe for work.
Basically, since the theme of the year was spreading knowledge away from 48 and 46, and towards other groups, no other song epitomized the theme of the year better than this one.
How I discovered SUPER☆GiRLS involves a web show that I wanted to be a part of. On the web show “Basugasubakuhatsu the TV”, I wanted to be a guest host and watch some idol videos while giving commentary. One of the videos was “Icchatte♪Yacchatte♪”, and I got hooked to this song once I heard it. I also found a SUPER☆GiRLS oshi right off the bat in Tanaka Mirei. Perhaps it was her smile or perhaps it was because she was an amazing center in this song. Either way, she became my SUPER☆GiRLS oshi right away, and it does not look like that will change anytime soon. I mean, I spent a good few weeks trying to find her photobook, and only found out that it has been out of print for a year…but I digress.
The song itself was joyful and gave a very bright summer vibe whenever I played it. It also helped that 90% of the video is of the members in bikinis, so of course that got my attention. Keep in mind that the video posted below is not exactly safe for work.
Basically, since the theme of the year was spreading knowledge away from 48 and 46, and towards other groups, no other song epitomized the theme of the year better than this one.
These are the five songs that defined my entire 2015. What idol songs defined your 2015? Let me know in the comments below.
-Nathan (L4verra)
-Nathan (L4verra)
©YouTube, LLC
Since YouTube Red launched in the USA, we haven’t been able to practically any Hello! Project videos. Up-Front has finally come to an agreement with YouTube and accepted the terms to their satisfaction, which means that we can finally view videos in the USA again.
This comes at a very opportune time, with the recent announcement of Morning Musume ’16 coming to Texas for a concert next year. YouTube has been one of the main sources of information for foreign fans for years, and it’s very reassuring to know that they have finally fixed the problem for American fans. Keep in mind, YouTube Red is slated to roll out to the rest of the world over the span of 2016, so it’s good that Up-Front solved the problem before the rest of the overseas (and even domestic) fans suffered from this problem.
There is a slight catch though. Since they are actively working on getting everything up to speed again, all videos aren’t available. They are rolling out over time, with most Morning Musume ’15 and ANGERME videos already up. I suspect that within the next month we’ll see everything pop up and life will be back to normal for fans yet again. Not only that, this means that fans can start uploading covers and other creative work involving Hello! Project music yet again. I hope that other companies who have suffered from this problem are able to sort things out soon as well.
If you’re in disbelief, check out the YouTube upload of Sukatto My Heart, Morning Musume ‘15’s most recent release, below.
- Teepu
This comes at a very opportune time, with the recent announcement of Morning Musume ’16 coming to Texas for a concert next year. YouTube has been one of the main sources of information for foreign fans for years, and it’s very reassuring to know that they have finally fixed the problem for American fans. Keep in mind, YouTube Red is slated to roll out to the rest of the world over the span of 2016, so it’s good that Up-Front solved the problem before the rest of the overseas (and even domestic) fans suffered from this problem.
There is a slight catch though. Since they are actively working on getting everything up to speed again, all videos aren’t available. They are rolling out over time, with most Morning Musume ’15 and ANGERME videos already up. I suspect that within the next month we’ll see everything pop up and life will be back to normal for fans yet again. Not only that, this means that fans can start uploading covers and other creative work involving Hello! Project music yet again. I hope that other companies who have suffered from this problem are able to sort things out soon as well.
If you’re in disbelief, check out the YouTube upload of Sukatto My Heart, Morning Musume ‘15’s most recent release, below.
- Teepu
 ©UP-FRONT PROMOTION Co., Ltd. | Nonaka Miki is one of Morning Musume ‘15’s twelfth generation members. Nonaka is also the only member of Morning Musume who has lived in America and is fluent in English. Due to her father’s job, she had lived in America for eight years (Illinois from 2004-2004 and Alabama from 2004-2010). During the time she lived in Alabama, she was practicing dance as well as the piano. She was even able to introduce herself in English when she auditioned for Morning Musume as well as when she was announced a member of the group. Nonaka occasionally uses her English in her blog posts and she frequently talks about how she wants to help make Morning Musume more successful overseas. She has also recently hosted the ever-so popular J-MELO show which May-J usually hosts. During her time as host she was able to interview May-J in English with ease which is a very impressive feat for her to have completed. |
| With all of this history and background with English and having lived in America for so long, the English speaking fan base of Morning Musume is eagerly waiting the opportunity to see her and the group in their upcoming event in Houston, Texas next February. Ever since her addition to the group was announced the English speaking fans everywhere have been extremely excited to see how her skills can affect the group. -Eric Official Blog: http://ameblo.jp/mm-12ki/ J-MELO: J-MELO VIDEO HERE |  ©UP-FRONT PROMOTION Co., Ltd. |
©UP-FRONT PROMOTION Co., Ltd.
For those of you who are living here in America, you may remember the last two times Morning Musume delivered phenomenal performances here. The first time was in Los Angeles through Anime Expo in 2009 and the second time was in New York City (as Morning Musume ’14) in 2014. Well, guess what? They’re coming back!
Due to the success of the previous two events, they’ve just announced that they’ll be coming (as Morning Musume ’16) in 2016 to Houston, Texas. This time, they’ll be coming through Anime Matsuri, an anime convention, as the main guest.
The convention itself will be taking place from February 26 (Friday) to February 28 (Sunday), 2016. Morning Musume ’16 will be holding a Q&A and Press Conference on February 26 and the concert itself will be on February 27. Entry will be granted to anybody who has a convention badge, and early access will be offered to anybody who holds the Superpass. Keep in mind that Superpass sales are limited to 300, so get them quickly while you can.
This is an exciting time to be able to welcome Morning Musume back in America, and let’s make it the warmest welcome we can.
Check out the links below for more information, and also to keep up to date as more details are released.
- Teepu (Bowser05)
Official Announcement From Up-Front Link: https://www.facebook.com/notes/up-front-link/en-morning-musume16-main-guest-of-the-convention-in-houston-anime-matsuri/977248849000699
Official Anime Matsuri Site: http://www.animematsuri.com/
Morning Musume ’16 Details from Anime Matsuri’s Site: http://www.animematsuri.com/guest/morning-musume/
Due to the success of the previous two events, they’ve just announced that they’ll be coming (as Morning Musume ’16) in 2016 to Houston, Texas. This time, they’ll be coming through Anime Matsuri, an anime convention, as the main guest.
The convention itself will be taking place from February 26 (Friday) to February 28 (Sunday), 2016. Morning Musume ’16 will be holding a Q&A and Press Conference on February 26 and the concert itself will be on February 27. Entry will be granted to anybody who has a convention badge, and early access will be offered to anybody who holds the Superpass. Keep in mind that Superpass sales are limited to 300, so get them quickly while you can.
This is an exciting time to be able to welcome Morning Musume back in America, and let’s make it the warmest welcome we can.
Check out the links below for more information, and also to keep up to date as more details are released.
- Teepu (Bowser05)
Official Announcement From Up-Front Link: https://www.facebook.com/notes/up-front-link/en-morning-musume16-main-guest-of-the-convention-in-houston-anime-matsuri/977248849000699
Official Anime Matsuri Site: http://www.animematsuri.com/
Morning Musume ’16 Details from Anime Matsuri’s Site: http://www.animematsuri.com/guest/morning-musume/
Le Siana is a small idol group based out of Nara, who started their activities in October of 2012. The group currently has two singles and an album out and they just uploaded the music videos for their third single 「やまとなでシカ」 (“Yamato Nade Shika”) as well as their major debut single 「まほらば！」 (“Mahoraba!”) on December 2, 2015! Even though it is now December, やまとなでシカ definitely has an upbeat, summer-esque feel to it, as the girls are playfully running around a small creek shooting each other with water guns. The music video also shows them around the outside of the Todaiji Temple which is famous for its great number of deer living in its park. While やまとなでシカ an upbeat song, まほらば！has a much lighter and soft feel to it. The music video for this major debut single of theirs is a fairly simple, yet refreshing video. [Both videos can be found below] I would definitely recommend checking out Le Siana and keeping them on your to-watch list in the future to see them grow into a great unit!
~Eric
All pictures from Le Siana's Twitter.
For More Information:
Official Website: http://lesiana.com/
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeSiananara
~Eric
All pictures from Le Siana's Twitter.
For More Information:
Official Website: http://lesiana.com/
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeSiananara
「やまとなでシカ」 (“Yamato Nade Shika”) PV
「まほらば！」 (“Mahoraba!”) PV
For those of you who are not familiar with the NHK annual Kouhaku, it is a concert that is meant to celebrate the New Year in Japan. This concert has some of the best musical acts in all of Japan, and this concert is meant to be a reward for a year’s worth of hard work. Some of the J-Pop groups that made it this year include AKB48, Nogizaka46, Perfume, and NMB48. But you might be asking yourself, who did not make it this year? Well, I am going to list a few J-Pop acts that may have been snubbed by NHK. Some of which for good reason, and some of which made absolutely no sense. Acts such as Momoiro Clover Z, Rev. from DVL, and Cheeky Parade, did not make the lineup, but I will focus on four acts in particular.
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu
Harajuku’s finest did not make it into the NHK Kouhaku lineup this year. To be 100% honest, I can see why.
Even though I am a huge fan of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, I, as well as thousands of her fans, have to agree that she did not go as hard as previous years, especially 2013 and 2014. She had two big releases the entire year in “Mondai Girl” and “Crazy Party Night”, and the general consensus is that “Crazy Party Night” is one of her weaker singles. This year there was no album release and Pamyu did not make it to the United States to perform (she was close to going to J-Pop Summit in San Francisco this year but management backed her out at the last minute).
Basically, compared to what we have seen of her, this was not the best year for Pamyu, and thus she got snubbed off of this year’s NHK Kouhaku. But what I did like about this year was that this year was kind of a means to relax, especially given all she has done in previous years. She has gone hard as a mother since the debut of “PONPONPON” back in 2011.
I will still be here to support her no matter what. If she wants in on NHK Kouhaku next year however, she may need to release more than two singles.
Even though I am a huge fan of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, I, as well as thousands of her fans, have to agree that she did not go as hard as previous years, especially 2013 and 2014. She had two big releases the entire year in “Mondai Girl” and “Crazy Party Night”, and the general consensus is that “Crazy Party Night” is one of her weaker singles. This year there was no album release and Pamyu did not make it to the United States to perform (she was close to going to J-Pop Summit in San Francisco this year but management backed her out at the last minute).
Basically, compared to what we have seen of her, this was not the best year for Pamyu, and thus she got snubbed off of this year’s NHK Kouhaku. But what I did like about this year was that this year was kind of a means to relax, especially given all she has done in previous years. She has gone hard as a mother since the debut of “PONPONPON” back in 2011.
I will still be here to support her no matter what. If she wants in on NHK Kouhaku next year however, she may need to release more than two singles.
HKT48
If you did not know this interesting tidbit of trivia, HKT48 was not supposed to be in the NHK Kouhaku last year. That spot was reserved for Nogizaka46, but after Yamato Rina had a scandal that involved breaking the law, Nogizaka46 was booted off of the lineup and subbed in with HKT48. Given that Nogizaka46 has done nothing wrong to get kicked off of the lineup this year, they have finally earned that long overdue NHK Kouhaku spot.
Unfortunately for HKT48, that means they get the short end of the stick. While HKT48 had a few solid releases this year, such as “12 Byou” and “Shekarashika!”, those two singles alone were not enough to secure a spot.
HKT48’s snub will not exactly affect members who have been on an AKB48 senbatsu, such as Miyawaki Sakura and Sashihara Rino. However, for the HKT48-centric members, such as Moriyasu Madoka, Murashige Anna, and Matsuoka Natsumi, this affects them a whole lot more.
Unfortunately for HKT48, that means they get the short end of the stick. While HKT48 had a few solid releases this year, such as “12 Byou” and “Shekarashika!”, those two singles alone were not enough to secure a spot.
HKT48’s snub will not exactly affect members who have been on an AKB48 senbatsu, such as Miyawaki Sakura and Sashihara Rino. However, for the HKT48-centric members, such as Moriyasu Madoka, Murashige Anna, and Matsuoka Natsumi, this affects them a whole lot more.
SKE48
This is probably the biggest snub on the 48G side of things. Yes, SKE48 is not in the NHK Kouhaku lineup this year, but the bigger question would be, why did they get snubbed?
I would say the biggest reason had to be all of the members who graduated this year alone. Two members in particular had the most stopping power in the entire lineup, and both of those members (Matsui Rena and Furukawa Airi) have now graduated. Things are a little shaky in Sakae right now, to the point where Matsui Jurina had to cut her AKB48 kennin off. This is an idol unit that is somehow going through a “rebuilding phase”, and releasing only two singles this year did not help their cause (no, we are not counting the Love Crescendo single or any of the sub-unit singles).
I am by no means insulting the lineup or any of the members; I do like Shibata Aya, Tani Marika, Kumazaki Haruka, and Takayanagi Akane. Unfortunately for all of them, SKE48 will have to regroup and wait until next year to secure a Kouhaku spot.
Like most rebuilding teams in sports, just get through the present in order to focus on future goals. It may suck now, but it will be worth it in the future. I hope Matsui Jurina knows that…
I would say the biggest reason had to be all of the members who graduated this year alone. Two members in particular had the most stopping power in the entire lineup, and both of those members (Matsui Rena and Furukawa Airi) have now graduated. Things are a little shaky in Sakae right now, to the point where Matsui Jurina had to cut her AKB48 kennin off. This is an idol unit that is somehow going through a “rebuilding phase”, and releasing only two singles this year did not help their cause (no, we are not counting the Love Crescendo single or any of the sub-unit singles).
I am by no means insulting the lineup or any of the members; I do like Shibata Aya, Tani Marika, Kumazaki Haruka, and Takayanagi Akane. Unfortunately for all of them, SKE48 will have to regroup and wait until next year to secure a Kouhaku spot.
Like most rebuilding teams in sports, just get through the present in order to focus on future goals. It may suck now, but it will be worth it in the future. I hope Matsui Jurina knows that…
Ebisu Muscats
lol
In all honesty, there was no chance that the Ebisu Muscats, even during their revival, could make NHK Kouhaku. Speaking as a fan of the Muscats since 2010, even when they were in their prime (2012-2013), they had no chance. I cannot speak for NHK management, but if an idol group with av stars makes NHK Kouhaku, would that raise a few problems?
The funny thing is, on the Ebisu Muscats’ variety show, they would throw a Kouhaku-style performance set, complete with costumes and parodies. This was the only time I saw my Ebisu Muscats oshimen, Rukawa Rina, perform “Aitakatta” by AKB48. That was one of the greatest moments I had seen of her on that entire show, ever.
Basically, the Ebisu Muscats may never get into an NHK Kouhaku lineup for family-friendly reasons, and that is a-ok.
Those are the entries that missed their spot on NHK Kouhaku. Did I miss anyone? Were there even bigger snubs? Let me know in the comments below.
-Nathan (L4verra)
In all honesty, there was no chance that the Ebisu Muscats, even during their revival, could make NHK Kouhaku. Speaking as a fan of the Muscats since 2010, even when they were in their prime (2012-2013), they had no chance. I cannot speak for NHK management, but if an idol group with av stars makes NHK Kouhaku, would that raise a few problems?
The funny thing is, on the Ebisu Muscats’ variety show, they would throw a Kouhaku-style performance set, complete with costumes and parodies. This was the only time I saw my Ebisu Muscats oshimen, Rukawa Rina, perform “Aitakatta” by AKB48. That was one of the greatest moments I had seen of her on that entire show, ever.
Basically, the Ebisu Muscats may never get into an NHK Kouhaku lineup for family-friendly reasons, and that is a-ok.
Those are the entries that missed their spot on NHK Kouhaku. Did I miss anyone? Were there even bigger snubs? Let me know in the comments below.
-Nathan (L4verra)
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