Jpop news!

Erina Mano's Major Debut

2009-02-01T05:12:00.001-08:00

Erina!

Hello! Project member Erina Mano will make her major label debut as a soloist next month. Her first single, "Otome no Inori," is set to go on sale March 18.

Last year, Mano released three indie singles: "Mano Piano," "Lucky Aura," and "Lalala-Sososo." Like those songs, her new tune is composed by KAN and arranged by Taisei (Sharam Q), with lyrics written by Yoshiko Miura.

In addition to the single's regular edition, there will be three different first edition versions. Fans who purchase a first edition copy will be able to enter a drawing for a special event being held in five cities at the end of March.

A video clip for the song is being made available digitally on Recochoku between February 4 and February 10.

It has also been decided that Mano will hold her debut concerts in June. She will perform at Nakano Sun Plaza on June 6, followed by a show in Osaka at Matsushita IMP Hall on June 14.

ARASHI's Kazunari Ninomiya Stars In "Door To Door"

2009-02-01T05:11:00.001-08:00

Nino!

Arashi's Kazunari Ninomiya is starring in a TBS drama special called "DOOR TO DOOR." This is the third and last in the network's "kandou drama" series, which includes last year's "Marathon" and 2006's "Sukoshi wa, Ongaeshi ga Dekita Kana." Ninomiya also starred in those two specials.

These dramas are based on true stories about young men overcoming illnesses. "DOOR TO DOOR" is inspired by Bill Porter, an American door-to-door salesman who achieved the highest sales for his company despite suffering from cerebral palsy. In the U.S., Porter's story became a successful book, and it was turned into an Emmy-nominated made-for-TV movie on the TNT network in 2002.

TBS's version of "DOOR TO DOOR" is set in Japan, with Ninomiya playing the lead as a man named Hideo Kurasawa. His supporting cast includes Kanako Higuchi as his mother and Rosa Kato as a co-worker. Filming started on Sunday. TBS will air the drama on March 29 at 9:00pm.

DVD Release Of Live-Action Death Note "

2009-01-31T04:57:00.000-08:00

Death Note 2

VIZ Pictures announces DVD release of Live-Action Death Note 2: The Last Name feature film

VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has announced the highly anticipated DVD release of DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME, based on the hit supernatural action mystery manga (graphic novel) and animated series. The DVD will feature both the original Japanese dialogue with English subtitles and the English dubbed version by the outstanding voice cast of the animated series. The Red Hot Chili Peppers again contribute the theme song. Bonus features include a special segment, “Making of DEATH NOTE II” and the original Japanese theatrical trailer. The DVD will carry a suggested retail price of $24.92 and will be distributed in North America by VIZ Media. The estimated street date for DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME is February 10, 2009.

DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME is the sequel to the phenomenal hit live-action movie DEATH NOTE, based on the hit manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. The DEATH NOTE live-action DVD, released in September 2008, was ranked as #1 in Japanese Films in North America and #34 in the Live-Action category. As the sequel of DEATH NOTE and once again directed by the renowned monster filmmaker Shusuke Kaneko, DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME concludes the titanic battle between the two geniuses Light and L.

The story picks up with Light Yagami (Tatsuya Fujiwara) joining the investigation team in pursuit of the serial killer known as ‘Kira’. While L (Kenichi Matsuyama) still strongly suspects that Light is ‘Kira’, Light continues to seek out the real name of L so that he can kill him with his Death Note. Making things even more unpredictable is the ‘Eyes of Death’ that the second Kira possesses, enabling the owner to know the true identity and lifespan of any person. Light Yagami soon learns the identity of the other Kira and wants to join forces to get rid of L. Will L be able to catch “Kira” before he gets killed? Who will be the last name written in the Death Note?

“We’re very excited to announce the highly anticipated DVD release of DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Is Light Yagami a crazed serial killer or merely society’s self-appointed solution to crime? DEATH NOTE is the latest manga and anime series to gain widespread international popularity, and the success of the first live-action film has primed audiences for this edgy sequel. As interest in DEATH NOTE continues to grow, we invite fans to delve into the psychological drama of this newest release from VIZ Pictures.”

VIZ Pictures has also announced 2 special giveaway promotions to coincide with the DVD release. Fans are encouraged to go to www.viz-pictures.com and answer the quick survey before February 28. 10 random winners will be selected to receive a special DEATH NOTE II poster.

Readers of SHONEN JUMP magazine are encouraged to enter the exclusive DEATH NOTE II contest where 10 lucky fans will each win a copy of the DEATH NOTE II DVD, and 3 very lucky fans will each win a copy of the DVD and an autograph from one of the lead actors (Kenichi Matsuyama, Tatsuya Fujiwara and Erika Toda). Contest details will be in the March 2009 issue of Shonen Jump magazine, which will hit newsstands on February 3.

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, also published domestically by VIZ Media, was recently ranked in USA Today’s Top 150 list of America’s best-selling books.

The animated PV for Arashi's next single, "Believe," is a collaboration with animation studio Tatsunoko. The collaboration is linked to the upcoming l

2009-01-31T04:56:00.000-08:00

Believe

The animated PV for Arashi's next single, "Believe," is a collaboration with animation studio Tatsunoko. The collaboration is linked to the upcoming live-action movie based on Tatsunoko's "Yatterman" franchise, which stars Arashi member Sho Sakurai and uses "Believe" as its theme song.

In the music video, each of the five Arashi members will "transform" into a character from a different Tatsunoko series. Sakurai will obviously take on the role of Yatterman No. 1. The other shows being used are "Yattodetaman" (Kazunari Ninomiya), "Time Bokan" (Satoshi Ohno), "Otasukeman" (Masaki Aiba), and "Zenderman" (Jun Matsumoto).

The "Yatterman" movie opens on March 7. "Believe" goes on sale as a CD single on March 4, the same day the PV becomes available through media site Dwango. A live-action music video for "Believe" is also being made.

Oricon: 2009's Promising Young Actors

2009-01-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

Research firm Oricon conducted a survey of 1,000 young men and women, asking them which actors they have high expectations for in 2009.

The #1 answer was Haruma Miura, who ranked third in last year's survey. Miura landed his first starring drama role this past fall when he played a genius hacker in "Bloody Monday."

1. Haruma Miura
2. Takeru Sato
3. Junpei Mizobata
4. Hiro Mizushima
5. Hayato Ichihara
6. Kenichi Matsuyama
7. Shohei Miura
8. Yu Shirota
9. Yusuke Yamamoto
10. Osamu Mukai

"Gokusen" Gets Another Special Episode

2008-12-28T03:37:00.001-08:00

Gokusen!

NTV has announced another special episode for the "Gokusen" drama franchise. The show's third season aired this past spring, and the upcoming episode will be a "graduation special" featuring the same characters. Yukie Nakama will of course star in the show, with Yuya Takaki, Haruma Miura, and Hideo Ishiguro among the returning cast.

The two previous seasons of "Gokusen" in 2002 and 2005 also had special episodes that aired several months after the show's end.

The upcoming special is scheduled to air in March.

Ayumi Injures Hand;in Doubt For Red & White Singing Contest

2008-12-28T03:33:00.002-08:00

Ayumi Hamasaki

Singer Ayumi Hamasaki, 30, has injured her right hand, and with only four days to go until NHK’s Red and White Singing Contest, she is in a race against time to recover and take to the stage to lead off the New Year’s Eve show. NHK announced Friday the order of songs for New Year’s Eve, and it would be the first time in the show’s history if the opening artist were to be unable to perform.

According to her agency Avex Group, Hamasaki fell down the stairs at her apartment on Wednesday and injured her right hand. Staff took her to hospital where she received medical attention, and on Thursday she underwent surgery. Hamasaki later had to cancel her live performance at TV Asahi’s “Music Station Super Live 2008” on Friday night. Her doctors say the injury will take three weeks to heal, and her fall was caused by anemia exacerbated by fatigue.

Hamasaki wrote on her blog: “I can’t even hold a microphone. I’m really upset and truly sorry I couldn’t make it to ‘Music Station.’” In addition to the Red and White Singing Contest, she is scheduled to perform on the 30th and 31st at Yoyogi National Stadium. “I just have to believe in my strength, and hope my body can heal before then,” she wrote.

Shin Ishihara, chief producer of the Red and White Singing Contest, said: “We wanted to open the show in a certain style and Hamasaki was going to do that for us. But now we’ll have to wait and see.”

Rehearsals will be held on Monday, where it will become clear if Hamasaki will open the New Year’s Eve show as scheduled.

Popolo TV Grand Prix 2008

2008-12-28T03:33:00.001-08:00

BEST DRAMA
1. Gokusen (1083 votes)
2. Code Blue (975 votes)
3. Ryusei no Kizuna (828 votes)
4. CHANGE (797 votes)
5. Scrap Teacher (685 votes)
6. Maou (579 votes)
7. Last Friends (558 votes)
8. 1 Pound Gospel (502 votes)
9. Rookies (498 votes)
10. 33-pun Tantei (431 votes)
11. Bara no nai Hanaya (406 votes)
12. Bloody Monday (386 votes)
13. Yasuko to Kenji (352 votes)
14. Sasaki Fusai no Jingi Naki Tatakai (307 votes)
15. Ryokiteki na Kanojo (298 votes)

BEST ACTOR
1. Yamashita Tomohisa (Code Blue, 1096 votes)
2. Ninomiya Kazunari (Ryuusei no Kizuna, 997 votes)
3. Kimura Takuya (CHANGE, 903 votes)
4. Ohno Satoshi (Maou, 883 votes)
5. Kamenashi Kazuya (1 Pound Gospel votes)

BEST ACTRESS
1. Nakama Yukie (Gokusen, 1208 votes)
2. Ueto Aya (Celeb to Binbou Tarou, 918 votes)
3. Horikita Maki (Innocent Love, 874 votes)
4. Aragaki Yui (Code Blue, 725 votes)
5. Ueno Juri (Last Friends, 697 votes)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR
1. Nishikido Ryo (Last Friends, 1132 votes )
2. Takaki Yuuya (Gokusen, 974 votes)
3. Miura Haruma (Gokusen, 921 votes)
4. Ikuta Toma (Hachimitsu to Kuroba, 873 votes)
5. Yamada Ryousuke (1 Pound Gospel, 742 votes)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
1. Aibu Saki (Zettai Kareshi, 1071 votes)
2. Mizukawa Asami (33pun Tantei, 911 votes)
3. Kuroki Meisa (1 Pound Gospel, 813 votes)
4. Kato Rosa (Oh! My Girl!, 727 votes)
5. Tabe Mikako (Yasuko to Kenji, 683 votes)

BEST NEWCOMER
1. Takaki Yuuya (Gokusen, 1035 votes)
2. B.A.D. (Gokusen, 1008 votes)
3. Nakayama Yuuma (Battery, 903 votes)

BEST COUPLE
1. Kamenashi Kazuya x Kuroki Meisa (1 Pound Gospel, 913 votes)
2. Kitagawa Yuujin x Maki Horikita (Innocent Love, 721 votes)
3. Kamiji Yusuke x Ueto Aya (Celeb to Binbou Tarou, 658 votes)

BEST SPORTSMAN
1. Kamenashi Kazuya (1 Pound Gospel, 948 votes)
2. Nakayama Yuuma (Battery, 853 votes)
3. Ichihara Hayato (ROOKIES, 719 votes)

BEST DETECTIVE
1. Ikuta Toma (Maou, 961 votes)
2. Koike Teppei (Shibatora, 841 votes)
3. Inohara Yoshihiko (Keishicho Sosa Ikka 9, 717 votes)

BEST FRIENDS
1. Last Friends gang (958 votes)
2. Hachikuro gang (816 votes)
3. Nakayama and Takada (Battery, 734 votes)

BEST FAMILY
1. Ariake Family (Ryuusei no Kizuna, 1032 votes)
2. Satou Family (Celeb to Binbou Tarou, 946 votes)
3. Oki Family (Yasuko to Kenji, 809 votes)

BEST RIVALS
1. Naruse Ryou (Ohno Satoshi) vs Serizawa Naoto (Ikuta Toma) (Maou, 982 votes)
2. Ogata Yamato (Takaki Yuuya) vs. Kazama Ren (Miura Haruma) (Gokusen, 865 votes)
3. Sasaki Norimichi (Inagaki Goro) vs. Sasaki Ritsuko (Koyuki) (Sasaki Fusai no Jingi Naki Tatakai, 736 votes)

BEST DRAMA SP
1. Myuu no Anyo Papa ni Ageru (1201 votes)
2. Proposal Daisakusen (1008 votes)
3. Huruhata Chuugakusei (907 votes)
4. Kokuchisezu (730 votes)
5. Isshun no Kaze ni Nare (687 votes)

BEST THEME SONG
1. Truth/ARASHI (Maou, 948 votes)
2. Beautiful days/ARASHI (Ryuusei no Kizuna, 821 votes)
3. Prisoner of Love/Utada Hikaru (748 votes)
4. Lips/KAT-TUN (1 pound gospel, 532 votes)
5. Secret Code/KinKi Kids (33pun Tantei, 513 votes)

BEST VARIETY SHOW
1. SMAP x SMAP (1068 votes)
2. Arashi no Shukudai-kun (943 votes)
3. Shin-Domoto Kyoudai (827 votes)
4. Bakushou Red Carpet (749 votes)
5. Haneru no Tobira (698 votes)
6. Showa x Heisei~Show wa Hey! Say!~ (514 votes)
7. Cartoon KAT-TUN (487 votes)
8. Can! Jani (391 votes)
9. Quiz! Hexagon II (289 votes)
10. Hyakushikiou (240 votes)

MOST POPULAR/IN/CURRENT THING
1. ARASHI (1209 votes)
2. Hanadan (984 votes)
3. Kita-! (Yamamoto Takahiro, 871 votes)
4. Gu~! (Edo Harumi, 815 votes)
5. Ponyo (742 votes)
6. 1,2,sa~n (Sekai no Nabeatsu, 697 votes)
7. Uisshu (Daigo , 538)
8. Chori-su (Kinoshita Yukina, 477 votes)
9. Nanimo Iene- (Kitajima Kosuke, 402 votes)
10. Arafo- (318 votes)

Kanjani8 Dominates DVD Rankings For 2008

2008-12-21T04:57:00.000-08:00

KAnji8

On Friday, Oricon released its DVD sales rankings for 2008, based on data between December 24, 2007, and December 15, 2008. Boy band Kanjani8 dominated the list thanks to their live tour DVD "47."

"47," which was released in early December last year, sold 282,041 copies for a total of 1.97 billion yen. This made "47" the best-selling music DVD of the year in terms of Most Copies Sold and Most Money Earned, as well as making Kanjani8 the top artist at a total of 1.98 billion yen. "47" also counted as the highest earning DVD overall in 2008, though three DVDs actually outperformed it in number of copies sold: "Transformers" Special Collectors' Edition (365,000), "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" 2-Disc Special Edition (336,000), and "Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone" Special Edition (298,000).

Jun Matsumoto - GQ MAGAZINE Man Of The Year

2008-12-21T04:55:00.001-08:00

Jun Matsumoto!

ARASHI member Matsumoto Jun was awarded with the prestigious GQ Magazine Award as the MAN OF THE YEAR in the Category Singer - Actor.
This recognization is due at the great job he has done during the year with a successful movie and presentations. Here is the list of this year winners:

Jun Matsumoto - Singer and Actor
Nobuharu Asahara - Beijing Olympic Medalist
Takeshi Kitano - Film Director
Sekai no Nabeatsu - Comedian
NIGO - A Bathing Ape (BAPE) Producer
Takashi Murakami - Artist

Oricon: 2008 Top 20 Music DVDs Yearly Ranking

2008-12-21T04:48:00.000-08:00

Concluded final tally!

1) Kanjani8 - 47 (282,041)
2) Arashi - SUMMER TOUR 2007 FINAL Time -Kotoba no Chikara- (243,913)
3) Keisuke Kuwata - Kuwata-sama no Oshigoto 07/08 - Miwaku no AV Marriage (193,187)
4) NEWS - NEWS CONCERT TOUR pacific 2007 2008 -THE FIRST TOKYO DOME CONCERT- (182,726)
5) Mr.Children - Mr.Children "HOME" TOUR 2007 ~in the field~ (171,533)
6) KinKi Kids - We are Phi n' 39!! and U? KinKi Kids Live in DOME 07-08 (135,012)
7) B'z - B'z Live in Nanba (130,542)
8) Namie Amuro - NAMIE AMURO PLAY TOUR 2007 (128,295)
9) DREAMS COME TRUE - Shijo Saikyo no Ido Yuenchi DREAMS COME TRUE Wonderland 2008 (126,420)
10) Southern All Stars - Manatsu no Dai Kanshasai LIVE (120,742)
11) Maximum the Hormone - Deco Vs Deco (111,718))
12) Hey! Say! JUMP - Hey! Say! JUMP Debut & First Concert Ikinari! in Tokyo Dome (108,287)
13) Kumi Koda - KODA KUMI LIVE TOUR 2007 ~Black Cherry~ SPECIAL FINAL in TOKYO DOME (105,712)
14) Perfume - Perfume First Tour [GAME] (99,684)
15) Kobukuro - LIVE TOUR '08 "5296" FINAL (97,554)
16) Ketsumeishi - Ketsu no Ana Jokyu Hen (96,122)
17) BUMP OF CHICKEN - orbital period (93,165)
18) BOOWY - "LAST GIGS" COMPLETE (89,394)
19) Kumi Koda - KODA KUMI LIVE TOUR 2008 ~Kingdom~ (88,505)
20) Koichi Dohmoto - Endless SHOCK 2008 (86,040)

"Soba Ni Iru Ne" Conquers Mobile Downloads

2008-12-13T05:13:00.000-08:00

Thelma Aoyama!

Media company Label Mobile has released its 2008 rankings for chaku-uta downloads, based on data from December 1 of last year to November 30 of this year. According to the rankings, the biggest hit of the year was Thelma Aoyama's "Soba ni Iru ne," which was #1 in six different formats.

"Soba ni Iru ne" topped the Chaku-Uta Full list, ahead of GReeeeN's "Kiseki" and Hikaru Utada's "Prisoner of Love." On the regular Chaku-Uta list, Aoyama and GReeeeN were again #1 and #2, but Kimaguren's "LIFE" edged out Utada for the #3 spot.

Aoyama's song also ranked highest in the video clip, chakushin movie, chakushin melody, and RBT formats. In addition, it ranked #1 on the Recochoku's "InTheGroove" site, which focuses on club music.

Top 50 Oricon Yearly 2008: Singles

2008-12-13T05:12:00.001-08:00

ARASHI!

Concluded final tally!

1) Arashi - truth/Kaze no Mukou e (618,229)
2) Arashi - One Love (524,269)
3) Southern All Stars - I AM YOUR SINGER (520,289)
4) GReeeeN - KISEKI (493,259)
5) Shuchishin - Shuchishin (472,414)
6) Mr.Children - HANABI (468,971)
7) Thelma Aoyama feat. SoulJa - Soba ni Iru ne (456,479)
8) KAT-TUN - DON'T U EVER STOP (447,229)
9) KAT-TUN - LIPS (421,902)
10) Arashi - Beautiful days (421,876)
11) Kanjani8 - Musekinin Hero (385,016)
12) Arashi - Step and Go (374,449)
13) Masato Sugimoto - Waremokou (346,971) Total since 21/2/2007: 437,207
14) Fujioka Fujimaki to Nozomi Ohashi - Gake no Ue no Ponyo (346,217)
15) Mr.Children - GIFT (335,384)
16) Shuchishin - Nakanaide (335,367)
17) EXILE - The Birthday ~Ti Amo~ (303,936)
18) Namie Amuro - 60s 70s 80s (293,097)
19) NEWS - Taiyou no Namida (291,447)
20) Aladdin - Hi wa, Mata Noboru (267,235)
21) Hey! Say! JUMP - Mayonaka no Shadow Boy (248,084)
22) Jero - Umiyuki (260,716)
23) NEWS - SUMMER TIME (258,820)
24) KAT-TUN - White X'mas (250,106)
25) Hey! Say! JUMP - Dreams Come True (249,024)
26) NEWS - Happy Birthday (239,245)
27) Kanjani8 - Wahaha (229,094)
28) KinKi Kids - Secret Code (223,451)
29) Kobukuro - Toki no Ashioto (214,560)
30) EXILE - LAST CHRISTMAS (213,917)
31) Hey! Say! JUMP - Your Seed (208,113)
32) B'z - BURN -Fumetsu no Face- (194,970)
33) Ayumi Hamasaki - Mirrorcle World (193,016)
34) Aqua Timez - Niji (192,531)
35) SMAP - Dangan Fighter (173,586)
36) Masaharu Fukuyama - Sou -new love new world- (162,653)
37) Junko Akimoto - Ai no Mama de... (161,396)
38) EXILE - Pure/You're my sunshine (160,605)
39) SMAP - Sonomama/White Message (158,837)
40) UVERworld - Hakanaku mo Towa no Hanashi (158,105)
41) Kiyoshi Hikawa - Genkai Funauta (156,588)
42) ayaka x Kobukuro - Anata to (148,573)
43) V6 - way of life (143,599)
44) Maximum The Hormone - Tsume Tsume Tsume/[F] (140,547)
45) Angela Aki - Tegami ~Haikei Jugo no Kimi e~ (139,755)
46) Kumi Koda - MOON (138,446)
47) Perfume - love the world (135,295)
48) L'Arc~en~Ciel - NEXUS 4/SHINE (135,295)
49) SMAP - Kono Toki, Kitto Yume Janai (132,197)
50) Shota Shimizu - HOME (128,376)

BENI Holds Mini-concert In Shibuya

2008-12-13T05:11:00.001-08:00

Beni!

Singer BENI, 22, on Thursday appeared at an promotional event for her latest song “Mou nidoto” (Never again) in Shibuya. The singer also held a mini-concert for her fans.

The new single went on sale on Wednesday, but it has already become the most downloaded song since its release for mobile phone users in November.

After the event, BENI said, “This song is about the sensitive feelings of a broken-hearted girl.” Asked how she overcomes a broken heart, BENI answered: “I sometimes try to listen to sad music. But I don’t know what the best cure is, actually. I always wonder how other people cope with that situation.”

"Bolero" Confirmed As OST For "Subaru" Movie

2008-12-13T05:10:00.001-08:00

SUBARU!

The preview of the MV has been released (with scenes from the movie).

DBSK's new single Bolero has been confirmed to be the OST for Subaru, a Japanese movie based on a hit manga about a ballerina by Masahito Soda.

The movie is being produced by Warner Bros. Japan and it has an impressive and a very diverse set of stars and production crew from Japan, Korea and China. Led by Hong Kong director Chi-Ngai Lee and producer Bill Kong, popular Japanese actress Meisa Kuroki plays the female lead ballerina and and Korean actress Go Ara (also under SM Entertainment, featured in HUG MV for DBSK in the past) plays her rival. These two gorgeous hazel-eyed actresses are sure to make this movie a hit! But aside a great cast, the story itself is very psychological in nature and beautiful at the same time (the feelings in the song Bolero portray this perfectly). Click here to find out more about the song lyrics & movie.

They plan to release this movie simultaneously in 2009 throughout Asia, and are also hoping for releases in Europe and America. We hope that "Bolero" will enhance the story to the audiences and more people will get a chance to appreciate Tohoshinki's talent. They will also be making a cameo appearance in the movie, but no speaking lines but just performing.

To hear the long version of the new song, set to be released in January 21st, go here. "Bolero" is a Spanish word for is a spanish rithym reinvented in latin american countries such as Mexico, Peru, Venezuela, Cuba. The word comes from "volero", from the verb "volar" which means to fly.

Hey! Say! JUMP Boy Band Gets Its Own Manga In Ciao Mag

2008-12-06T02:49:00.001-08:00

Hey Say Jump!

Waiwai— Hey! Say! JUMP manga to feature all 10 members starting this month

The January issue (released on December 1) of Shogakukan's Ciao magazine has announced that Hey! Say! JUMP, a J-pop boy band formed by Johnny & Associates, will launch its own manga in the next issue on December 29. Keiko Notoyama will be drawing all ten of the band members into the Waiwai— Hey! Say! JUMP manga. Hey! Say! JUMP is actually made of two five-boy groups: the (relatively) older Hey! Say! BEST who range in ages from 17 to 18, and the slightly younger Hey! Say! 7 who are between 13 and 15. The next Ciao issue will also feature a special photo feature on the band and a "special message" to the Ciao readers from the bandmates.

Yutaka Kanzaki drew two manga, Musume Monogatari and Musume Monogatari ALIVE!, about Hello! Project's Morning Musume girl group in Kodansha's Nakayoshi magazine from 2001 to 2004. More recently, the 48-girl AKB48 idol group's "Team B" members inspired their own manga by Yasushi Akimoto and Natsuo Kume in April this year.

Britney Spears To Visit Japan This Month

2008-12-06T02:47:00.001-08:00

Britney Spears!

American singer Britney Spears, 27, will be in Japan later this month to promote her new album “Circus,” which goes on sale in Japan on Wednesday. It will be Spears’ first visit to Japan since December 2003, and she is scheduled to appear on Fuji TV’s music program “HEYx3” on Dec 15, and to stay in Japan for about a week.

Since the last time she came to Japan, Spears’ personal life has been a bit of a circus itself. Her marriage to childhood friend Jason Alexander while boozed up in January 2004 was annulled some 55 hours later. She married dancer Kevin Federline in September that year and together they had two sons, but got divorced in July last year. Federline was granted custody of the children amid Spears being admitted to rehabilitation facilities.

Her increased weight also made the news recently, but Spears succeeded in losing nearly 10 kilograms. One of her latest songs, “Womanizer,” seen as a denouncement of her ex-husband, made it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, for the first time since her debut single “…Baby One More Time”, released in 1999.

Looking forward to her upcoming visit to Japan, Spears said in a statement: “The Japanese are just so nice, I love them. I wanna go shopping while I’m there too.”

Beni Arashiro Is Now BENI

2008-11-10T04:37:00.001-08:00

Beni!

Japanese singer under Avex Trax, Beni Arashiro, canceled her last name so she can be called BENI. She will keep performing and make a new single next month. She has been silence for months, and now she’s back.

Arashiro is currently under Universal music due to are contract being expired under Avex. Her first single as her new name, BENI, will release on December 10.

This new single is titled “Mou Nidoto…” is a ballad song of the follow up song of DOHZI-T’s “Mou Ichido…”. While BENI was featured in the song, she hasn’t made her on song since February 2007.

“Mou Nidoto” will start selling as a Chaku-Uta on November 12.

Eguchi, Inagaki, Hirosue Star In "Triangle"

2008-11-10T04:36:00.000-08:00

Fuji TV is producing a drama series called "Triangle," scheduled to air next season. Actor Yosuke Eguchi will be the star of the show, supported by SMAP's Goro Inagaki and actress Ryoko Hirosue.

The series is described as a mystery/suspense story, starting with the murder of a 10-year-old girl in 1984. 15 years later, after the case goes unsolved and passes the statute of limitations, a doctor named Ryoji Goda (Eguchi) suddenly quits from his hospital and eventually becomes a detective. In 2008, he meets a traveling artist (Hirosue) in Paris, and shortly after Goda's return to Japan, he becomes involved in the expired murder case when another detective (Inagaki) receives an anonymous phone call.

Aside from Paris, where filming is currently taking place, the show's settings also include Tokyo, Osaka, and Shanghai. The rest of the cast is said to include other top actors, young and old, including Kinya Kitaoji.

"Triangle" will premiere on January 6, airing every Tuesday at 10:00pm.

Oricon: Fashion Surveys

2008-11-07T02:49:00.000-08:00

Ayumi Hamasaki!

Oricon recently conducted a survey of a thousand women ages 20 to 35 who expressed an interest in fashion. The survey had several questions, and Oricon has published some of the results on its website.

One question asked the women which female celebrity looks best in animal prints, which have recently been catching on as a fashion trend. Ayumi Hamasaki was voted #1, followed by rival Kumi Koda, actress Aya Sugimoto, model Uno Kanda, and actress Erika Sawajiri.

Another pop star, Namie Amuro, ranked #6. The rest of the top ten were models: Yukina Kinoshita, Anna Umemiya, Anna Tsuchiya, and Rinka.

In another part of the survey, Oricon asked which beauty was best suited for boots. Here, Amuro enjoyed the #1 spot, repeating her performance from last year when the same question was asked. Model Yu Yamada moved up from #6 to #2, while Karina jumped one spot to #3 and Rinka climbed from #8 to #4.

Meanwhile, Ayumi Hamasaki dropped from #2 last year to #5 this year. Also on the list were Yuri Ebihara, Kumi Koda, Yukina Kinoshita, Alisa Mizuki, and Moe Oshikiri.

A third section of the survey posed the question, "whose face would you like to have?" The cute but fierce looks of Kou Shibasaki earned her the honor of #1, followed by young actress Aoi Miyazaki. Namie Amuro also appeared on the short list at #3, while Ayumi Hamasaki tied for #4 with Yuko Takeuchi.

Nakamaru Lands First Lead Drama Role

2008-11-07T02:48:00.001-08:00

Yuichi Nakamaru!

KAT-TUN member Yuichi Nakamaru will play the starring role in a drama series for the first time. He has been cast in TBS's "RESCUE: Tokubetsu Koudo Kyuujotai," which will air on Saturdays at 7:56pm, starting in January.

Nakamaru plays a young firefighter aiming to become part of a special rescue team, inspired by an incident in which he was saved as a child. The series will be filmed in collaboration with an actual rescue squad in Yokohama.

Takahisa Masuda of NEWS is playing a cadet on the rescue team. Both he and Nakamaru are undergoing physical training for their roles. Other supporting cast members include Yusuke Yamamoto, Jun Kaname, Ryo Ishibashi, and Ken Ishiguro.

Oricon: Female Celebrities Who Look Good In Boots

2008-11-05T23:17:00.001-08:00

Namie Amuro!

1. Namie Amuro （1位－）
2. Yamada Yuu （6位↑）
3. Karina （4位↑）
4. Rinka （8位↑）
5. Ayumi Hamasaki （2位↓）
6. Ebihara Yuri （3位↓）
7. Koda Kumi （7位－）
7. Kinoshita Yuu （New）
9. Midzuki Arisa （9位－）
10.Oshikiri Moe （New）

The standard item to look smartly dressed in autumn and winter are boots. Oricon surveyed women aged between 20 and 35 for their opinions on female celebrities who look good in boots.

"She's already made it her own ! Knee high boots were made for her." (Tokyo, 31 year-old) Continuing from last year, Namie Amuro stands glittering at No.1. "Boots really suit her and it looks great when she sings and dances in them !" (Tokyo, 21 year-old) Many people are charmed by the sight of her dancing up a storm during her live concerts and music videos.

In second place is Yamada Yuu. "Her legs are beautifully long so it fits her perfectly." (Tokyo, 22 year-old) "When I see in her in fashion magazines, it really suits her !"(Chiba, 30 year-old) With a style of her own and so many praising her, she has gone up the ranks from last year's 6th place.

In 3rd place is model and actress Karina. "She looks cool when she wears short pants with boots." (Saitama, 26year-old) "She looks good in a mini-skirt and boots." (Tokyo, 30 year-old) "I think light brown Western boots suit her." (Saitama, 27 year-old) Good comments coming her way because of her affinity with boots.

Arashi Whips Fans Into Frenzy

2008-11-05T23:15:00.000-08:00

Arashi!

Popular Japanese pop group Arashi whipped thousands of Korean fans into a state of frenzy, as they staged four sold-out concerts in Seoul over the weekend. It has been two years since Arashi performed in Seoul, but judging from the deafening screams at the Olympic Fencing Stadium, their fans are as crazy about them as ever. The group is in the middle of a three-city Asian tour, ``Arashi Around Asia 2008."

Arashi, composed of Masaki Aiba, Jun Matsumoto, Kazunari Ninomiya, Satoshi Ohno and Sho Sakurai, opened the concert with ``Love So Sweet." The song was the theme song for the popular Japanese drama ``Hana Yori Dango Returns (Boys Over Flowers)." Throughout the nearly three-hour concert, Arashi performed many of their hit songs ``Step and Go," ``Happiness," ``Kitto Daijoubu (You'll Definitely be Okay)," ``We Can Make It," and ``Truth."

Each of the members had solo performances, showing off their distinct personalities and talents. Sakura rapped and danced to ``Hip Pop Boogie, while Aiba sang a cheerful number ``Hello Goodbye." Ninomiya played the piano while singing ``Niji (Rainbow)," and Ohno showed off his smooth vocals and dance moves to ``Take Me Faraway."

Matsumoto grabbed attention when he walked upside down on the ceiling, before flipping down and performing ``Yabai Yabai Yabai."

Arashi definitely knew how to please the Korean audience. Even though they spoke mainly in Japanese, group members sprinkled their comments with Korean phrases throughout the concert. They even included Korean lyrics in some songs, such as ``A-RA-SHI."

Sakurai even showed off the Wonder Girls' dance steps for the hit song ``Nobody," while the crowd sang the lyrics.

At their last concert Sunday evening, Arashi gave four encores before finally ending with the upbeat ``Fight Song."

Fans could not seem to get enough of the Japanese group. Matsumoto promised to return for a third ``Arashi Around Asia" tour.

An estimated 30,000 fans watched the four concerts Saturday and Sunday, including several hundred Japanese fans.

Even with little promotion about the concerts, tickets sold like hotcakes, with all three concerts being sold out on Auction.com in 30 minutes. Organizers had to add another concert, which once again sold out immediately.

BoA Says Welcome To My MySpace

2008-11-05T23:14:00.001-08:00

Boa!

BoA finally released her official MySpace and is saying “Welcome”.
She also commented on her first U.S. single “Eat You Up”, saying “I am very excited about my new single, ‘Eat You Up’. Check it out and make sure to leave a comment.” BoA’s MySpace is now ready, and she’ll be updating it everyday and keeping updates on tours, music video, etc.

BoA At Ben Lyons’ Birthday Bash

2008-11-04T18:41:00.001-08:00

BOA!

BoA showed up at Ben Lyons’s mother birthday. Ben Lyons is an American entertainment panelist on The Daily 10 and is a co-host of the long syndicated television program At the Movies. He’s the son of legendary film critic, Jeffrey Lyons. You can see him interviewing a lot of stars on E! and recently was linked to dating MTV’s The Hills star, Whitney.

Asia’s pop princess, Boa showed up at Ben Lyons’ birthday. She not only posed with him for photos but her song “Eat You Up” played at the party!

Looks like Boa’s really starting to make her mark here in America.

Akanishi To Star In Movie "Bandage"

2008-10-30T07:37:00.001-07:00

Jin Akinishi!

KAT-TUN member Jin Akanishi will be making his big screen debut with a starring role in a movie titled "BANDAGE." The film, set in the early 1990s during Japan's "band boom" era, will be the first fictional film directed by music producer Takeshi Kobayashi.

In the movie, Akanishi plays Natsu, the leader and vocalist of a 4-member rock band called LANDS. The story follows the ups and downs of the members' friendship as they aim for fame.

In addition to directing, Kobayashi is producing the film and handling the music. He was chosen as director by Shunji Iwai, who wrote the movie's script. The pair have worked together before - Kobayashi did the music for Iwai's "Swallowtail" (1996) and "All About Lily Chou-Chou" (2001), and most recently they are both involved with Eriko Kitagawa's "Harufuwei." Kobayashi previously directed the 1995 documentary "es" about the group Mr.Children, but this will be his first time in charge of a movie with actors.

As music producer, Kobayashi is planning to write at least five songs to be performed in the movie by LANDS. The songs will likely see a CD release in the future.

Fans will have to wait until 2010 to see the movie, but filming begins on November 3.

Teppei Koike, Kawaii!

2008-10-30T07:36:00.001-07:00

Teppei Koike!

Well, here’s something you probably didn’t need to see. - Teppei Koike dressed as a maid. It’s part of his role for an episode of “Shibatora". The story follows a rookie cop named Taketora Shibata who, despite his childish looks of a middle-schooler, fights against juvenile crime and has the ability to see anything at a crime scene. Nevertheless, it's still a struggle to rise out of the ranks and become a real detective.

Kumi Koda Performs For 2,400 Fans In Tokyo

2008-10-27T17:38:00.000-07:00

Kumi koDa!

Singer Kumi Koda, 25, this week held a concert at Studio Coast in Shinkiba for some 2,400 fans. Koda sang 18 songs and danced in sexy costumes. She sang her latest song “Taboo” for the first time during the concert as well as announcing the release of another new song “Stay With Me” on Dec 10.Koda is slowly making a comeback after a self-imposed exile earlier this year following her remarks on a radio program in which she said that “women over 35 had ‘rotten’ fluid in their wombs.”

BoA - Eat You Up American MV Released

2008-10-23T05:47:00.001-07:00

BOA!

[b]The Music Video (American Version) of BoA's American debut single "Eat You Up" was released today, but people are finding it a bit disappointing.[/b]

People are saying that the video seemed very cheap overall (very low budget and amateurish). They didn't like the random ninja moves and the tiger stance. Almost unanimously people prefer the Korean / Asian MV.

Kenichi Matsuyama Receives APN Award

2008-10-23T05:44:00.000-07:00

Kenichi MAtsuyama!

On Wednesday, the Asia-Pacific Producers' Network held a presentation ceremony for its 2nd APN Award. This year the organization, which was established by producers from seven countries, selected actor Kenichi Matsuyama as the award's recipient. He was recognized for his work on films such as "L change the WorLd," which opened in several Asian countries this past February.

JIn AKinishi!

2008-10-23T05:43:00.000-07:00

Jin Akanishi And Maki Nishiyama Caught On A Date?

This week's issue of FRIDAY magazine reports that KAT-TUN member Jin Akanishi recently went on a driving date with model Maki Nishiyama. Earlier this month, Akanishi picked up Nishiyama at her apartment in a minivan, and a reporter was able to capture the pair on camera as they drove off.

About a month ago, FRIDAY reported that Akanishi had dinner at a steakhouse with a "model-like beauty," not realizing at the time that it was Nishiyama. The two may have developed a relationship after Nishiyama appeared on "Cartoon KAT-TUN" last year.

Akanishi's management at Johnny's Jimusho stated that the two are just friends, while Nishiyama's agency declined to comment.

Nishiyama later wrote about it on her blog, amused that she had been described as only "model-like" even though she is an actual model. She acknowledged that she had been spotted with Akanishi, but she emphasized that the two are good friends and are not dating.

1st Tokyo Drama Awards: Pandora, Points And Lines

2008-10-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

Tokyo!

As part of the currently running Japan International Contents Festival (CoFesta), organizers are holding the 2nd International Drama Festival on October 22-24. This year, the event is introducing the first Tokyo Drama Awards, and the winners were announced during a press conference held on Thursday.

The grand prize was awarded to two dramas, "Pandora" and "Ten to Sen" ("Points and Lines"). "Pandora" aired on WOWOW this spring, starring Hiroshi Mikami as a doctor embroiled in a political war after he discovers a cure for cancer. The two-episode drama "Ten to Sen," which aired on TV Asahi last November, was based on a Seicho Matsumoto mystery novel and starred Beat Takeshi.

In the kids and youth category, the award went to TV Tokyo's "Keitai Sousakan 7" and Fuji TV's "Last Friends." NTV's "Saito-san" won in the family category.

The other winners were "Atsuhime" (jidaigeki category) and "SP" ("non-genre" category). Special awards were given to the art staff of "Ten to Sen" and to actor Tetsuya Takeda and the staff of "3 Nen B Gumi Kinpachi Sensei."

The award presentation ceremony will be held on the 22nd.

Jin Akanishi And Maki Nishiyama Caught On A Date?

2008-10-19T06:22:00.000-07:00

Jin Akinishi..!

This week's issue of FRIDAY magazine reports that KAT-TUN member Jin Akanishi recently went on a driving date with model Maki Nishiyama. Earlier this month, Akanishi picked up Nishiyama at her apartment in a minivan, and a reporter was able to capture the pair on camera as they drove off.

About a month ago, FRIDAY reported that Akanishi had dinner at a steakhouse with a "model-like beauty," not realizing at the time that it was Nishiyama. The two may have developed a relationship after Nishiyama appeared on "Cartoon KAT-TUN" last year.

Akanishi's management at Johnny's Jimusho stated that the two are just friends, while Nishiyama's agency declined to comment.

Nishiyama later wrote about it on her blog, amused that she had been described as only "model-like" even though she is an actual model. She acknowledged that she had been spotted with Akanishi, but she emphasized that the two are good friends and are not dating.

Oricon Ranking - Male Most Written About In Blogs [9/10/08]:

2008-10-13T21:40:00.000-07:00

Shun Oguri!

Yahoo has already revealed the Most Searched For Male (No.1 Ichihara Hayato). The site's search also revealed another component in the popularity index. So, what is popular right now as entries in many peoples' blogs ? From the blogs, the subject of the entries, keywords and such are extracted and the result is Oguri Shun shines at No.1 as the Male Most Written About In Blogs.

Working actively in movies, dramas and commercials, it safe to say that not a day goes by without seeing his face on television. To call him the number one actor currently is not an exaggeration. With many interested as well to where his romance with actress Yamada Yuu is heading, he has taken the No.1 spot in Male Most Written About In Blogs.

Male Most Written About In Blogs Ranking:

1. Oguri Shun
2. Ichihara Hayato
3. Akanishi Jin
4. Ikuta Toma
5. Tamaki Hiroshi
6. Sakurai Sho
7. Matsumoto Jun
8. Miura Haruma
9. Kimura Takuya
10. Eita

Japan's Pop Diva To Sing On Shanghai Stage

2008-10-13T05:04:00.001-07:00

Ayumi Hamasaki!

Japanese singer-songwriter Hamasaki Ayumi is back in town for a concert next Saturday. Since her debut in 1998, the 30-year-old singer has become known as the "Empress of Pop" in Japan for her long-lasting popularity.

She is famous not only for her hit songs and dance routines but also as a fashion trendsetter.

For the 10th anniversary of her debut, Hamasaki will perform all her hit songs.

"This will be a stage for the past 10 years of my career. I will show all of myself - the past, the present and the future," Hamasaki said.

"I hope to remember and recognize fans in Shanghai and hope we will meet them again in the next 10 years."

Organizers revealed that Hamasaki required a special large stage for her show, which reduced the VIP seats by half. The 1,000 VIP tickets were sold out within an hour, and more than 60 percent of all tickets were sold the first day.

Ami Suzuki To Lead Daytime Drama

2008-10-13T05:03:00.001-07:00

Ami Suzuki!

Singer Ami Suzuki will star in a TBS drama series that starts next month. Titled "Love Letter," the show is scheduled to run for 60 episodes in the afternoon "Ai no Gekijo" time slot (weekdays 1:00pm). This will be Suzuki's first lead role in a television series since she made her comeback.

Set on Shodoshima in Japan's Inland Sea, the story follows the experiences of the hearing-impaired protagonist along the path to adulthood, such as her first love and her first breakup. The 15-year span of the story is divided into three parts, with Suzuki playing the character as an adult. Rio Yamashita will play the character in junior high, while Yukina Matsushima fills in for the elementary school version of the role.

Suzuki previously starred in the 2000 series "Fukaku Mogure ~Hakkenden 2001~." She was offered the lead in the following year's "Shin Hoshi no Kinka," but she was ultimately removed due to her blacklisting that resulted from the lawsuit against her former management agency.

TBS will start airing "Love Letter" on November 24.

Arashi Arrives In Taipei For AAA2008 Concert

2008-10-13T05:01:00.000-07:00

Taipei Arashi!

Popular Japanese Johnny's pop group Arashi arrived at Taipei Airport 11:50am on the 10th of October flying ANA flight no. NH1081. They will be staging their AAA2008 concert at the Taipei Arena over coming 2 days on the 11th & 12th of October. The concert has not started yet you can feel the overwhelming sense of popularity at the airport. Once Arashi landed at Taipei Airport, they were greeted by 400 to 500 screaming fans.

On the stage, the performance will include Ohno Satoshi, Sakuri Sho, Aiba Masaki, Ninomiya Kazunari and Matsumoto Jun. The production/backstage & cast for the AAA2008 concert is said to be historically one of the biggest for Taipei Arena with backstage cast of 200 people and costumes including 300 items. The backstage dancers will including Johnny's Junior groups 'M.A.D' and 'Boys' as supporting cast. There will be many AAA2008 souvenirs for sale at least 11 types including of t-shirts, poncho, penlight, towel etc. Arashi will be leaving Taipei on 13th of October at 9:45am flying ANA NH1084

The Most loved men by An An Ranking...

2008-10-08T22:06:00.000-07:00

3 Members of Arashi was "IN"!

I am sure you wanna know where our Jun jun is..:)

The first two ranks are from the previous 2 years.

木村拓也　1位→ 1位→ 1位 (Kimura Takuya – 15 years being #1!)

福山雅治　2位→ 2位→ 2位 (Fukuyama Masaharu)

赤西仁　17位→ 8位→ 3位 (Jin Akanishi)

松本潤　 26位→ 5位→ 4位 (Jun Matsumoto)

中居正弘　3位→ 3位→ 5位 (Nakai Masahiro)

山下智久 12位→14位→ 6位 (Yamashita Tomohisa)

香取慎吾 8位→ 6位→ 7位 (Katori Shingo)

岡田准一 4位→ 4位→ 8位 (Okada Junichi)

小栗旬　圏外→19位→ 9位 (Oguri Shun)

草なぎ剛 6位→11位→10位 (Kusanagi Tsuyoshi)

亀梨和也 5位→10位→11位 (Kamenashi Kazuya)

稲垣吾郎 9位→ 9位→12位 (Inagaki Goro)

妻夫木聡 7位→ 7位→13位(Tsumabuki Satoshi)

桜井翔 23位→21位→14位 (Sakurai Sho)

堂本光一 15位→15位→15位 (Domoto Koichi)

二宮和也 18位→18位→16位 (Ninomiya Kazunari)

瑛太　　 22位→26位→17位 (Eita)

長瀬智也 13位→16位→18位 (Nagase Tomoya)

玉木宏　 24位→24位→19位 (Tamaki Hiroshi)

錦戸亮　 20位→22位→20位 (Nishikido Ryo)

生田斗真圏外→圏外→21位 (Ikuta Toma)

松山ｹﾝｲﾁ圏外→圏外→22位(Kenichi Matsuyama – L^^)

滝沢秀明 11位→12位→23位 (Takizawa Hideaki)

大倉忠義圏外→圏外→24位(Ohkura Tadayoshi)

速水もこ 21位→17位→25位 (Mokomichi Hayami)

小池徹平 19位→23位→26位 (Koike Teppei)

堂本剛　 16位→25位→圏外 (Ichihara Hayato)

Fish-ing For Love

2008-10-07T06:05:00.002-07:00

Fish Leong!

Love is always in the air for Taiwan-based Mando-pop chanteuse Fish Leong. At least, that’s the image that she projects. After all, the Malaysian-born singer, who’s best known for her love ballads, didn’t earn her the nickname “Queen of Love Songs” for nothing.

But when the singer was in town to promote the DVD and CD package entitled "Today is Our Valentine’s Day", a recording of her concert in Taiwan, Leong also let slip that she was more than willing to start a family now.

The singer has already been rumoured to be seeing a man the Chinese press have called “Tony” or “Mr T” - ever since they were photographed together after one of her performances. While she didn’t deny it, Leong didn’t clarify who he was either, calling him “a good friend”.

“I think it’s hard to find true love,” said the 30-year-old. “The best thing is to remember that loving someone else is a bit like loving yourself - what you wouldn’t want to happen to you, you shouldn’t do to that person.”

“I’m ready to think of starting a family though,” Leong told TODAY. “I think women shouldn’t wait too long to have kids.”

Actor Ken Ogata Dies At 71

2008-10-07T06:05:00.001-07:00

Ken Ogata!

TOKYO —Japanese actor Ken Ogata, known for his energetic acting in numerous films and TV drama series including the 1983 movie ‘‘Narayama Bushiko’’ (Ballad of Narayama), died Sunday, sources close to him said Tuesday. He was 71. The cause and place of his death were not immediately known.

Ogata, whose real first name is Akinobu, had been active until just recently, having attended a press conference in Tokyo on Sept 30 to announce the new TV drama series ‘‘Kaze no garden’’ (Garden of Wind), scheduled to begin airing Thursday, along with fellow cast members. In the drama series, whose filming was completed Sept. 28, he plays the role of an old doctor involved in end-of-life care. In 2000, Ogata was a recipient of the Japanese government’s Medal with Purple Ribbon, which is awarded for contributions in fields such as arts.

New SPEED Single Chosen As "OL Nippon" Theme

2008-09-25T05:19:00.001-07:00

Speed!

Details are now out regarding SPEED's first post-reunion single. Titled "Ashita no Sora", the leading track has been chosen as the theme song of the NTV drama series "OL Nippon," which stars Alisa Mizuki and Sadao Abe.

The "Ashita no Sora" single goes on sale November 12. It will come with another new song called "SOMETHING NEW" and a medley of some of their previous hits, including "White Love" and "STEADY".

Mr.Children Sings For "Shellfish"

2008-09-25T05:18:00.001-07:00

Mr. Children!

Mr.Children has a new movie tie-up in the form of a ballad called "Hana no Nioi", chosen as the theme song of the upcoming remake "Watashi wa Kai ni Naritai" ("I Want to Be a Shellfish"). Directed by Katsuo Fukuzawa, the movie depicts the tragedy of a man sentenced to death as a war criminal.

Mr.Children's popularity will be combined with the star power of SMAP's Masahiro Nakai and actress Yukie Nakama, who co-star in the film. The movie also features Tsuyoshi Kusanagi in a minor role.

"Watashi wa Kai ni Naritai" opens in theaters on November 22. "Hana no Nioi" is apparently being released only as a digital single, with chaku-uta distribution starting on October 1 and extending to chaku-uta full on November 1.

Actress Ai Takabe Becomes Honorary Police Chief For A Day

2008-09-25T05:17:00.001-07:00

Ai Takabe!

Actress Ai Takabe, 20, on Tuesday became an honorary police chief for the day at Ikebukuro police station in Tokyo to raise public awareness for safe driving.

Takabe, who is currently studying for her license at a driving school, said, “I will be careful when I drive after I get my license. I wish everyone would drive safely because there are many elderly people on the roads.”

Fukuyama Masaharu, Kimura Takuya Still Top Of The Heap

2008-09-25T05:16:00.001-07:00

Fukuyama!

A couple of milestones for two of Japan's most popular and enduring male stars. Singer/actor Fukuyama Masaharu (39, profile) appeared yesterday at a post-production event for the big screen adaptation of last year's successful Fuji TV drama series "Galileo." The movie role is Fukuyama's first in 20 years and his first ever lead. He reprises the role of physics genius Yukawa Manabu, who teams up with a detective (Shibasaki Kou, 27) to tackle puzzling crimes. The Fuji drama was based on a series of short stories by Higashino Keigo, while the movie is based on his Naoki Prize-winning novelization.

Meanwhile SMAP member Kimura Takuya (35, profile) has topped one ranking of Japan's most popular men for a remarkable 15th year in a row. The annual ranking is done by women's magazine "anan" and published in a special issue. In addition to being the Most Popular Man, "Kimutaku" was top once again in four other categories: Best Boyfriend (he's married), Sexiest Man, Sharpest Dresser, and Man I'd Most Like to Sleep With. With SMAP about to release a new album and start a concert tour at Tokyo Dome tomorrow, there seems to be no limit to Kimutaku's popularity.

Ebi-chan denies rumors of affair; says she has no boyfriend

2008-09-23T04:55:00.003-07:00

Ebi-chan!

Popular model Yuri Ebihara, in Shanghai Sunday to promote her line of “fing MOTESTO” stockings, insisted the rumors that she is having an affair with basketball player Kei Igarashi, are not true. “That was my twin sister,” she said of the person seen at a basketball game in which Igarashi was playing. “Not me.” As far as she is concerned, Igarashi is just “an acquaintance.”

Ebihara, 28, popularly known as “Ebi-chan,” said she first met Igarashi, also 28, at a dinner party in 2006. “I’ve seen him no more than once this year.” Her married twin sister Eri, who has also appeared on TV and in magazines, looks enough like Ebi-chan to be mistaken for her.

“Honestly, I don’t even have a boyfriend,” said Yuri. “I do want to marry the next guy I go with though,” she added with a wry smile.

However flat her personal life might be, professionally she’s doing just fine. Shanghai’s biggest department store was thronged with 3,000 people who came by on Sunday to see her. It’s the latest segment of Ebihara’s Asian fashion push that began in Taipei in July.

Girls will be boys in AKB48's new drama

2008-09-23T04:55:00.001-07:00

Haruna Kojima, 20, Minami Takahashi, 17, and Minami Minegishi, 15, who are members of the idol girl group AKB48, will appear in TV Tokyo’s new drama “Mendol – ikemen idol,” playing boys.

The story is about three wanna-be-idol girls who disguise themselves as boys for a bit of fun. Takahashi said, “It’s really fun because I’ve dreamed of what it would be like to be a boy. For my character, I’ve been studying my brother’s behavior.”

The new drama will be aired from Oct 10.

Hey! Say! JUMP's 4th Single Available For Pre-order

2008-09-23T04:53:00.001-07:00

Hey say Jump!

The song is going to be called 真夜中のシャドーボーイ / Mayonaka no Shadow Boy [Midnight Shadow Boy] and will be released on October 22nd.

According to CDJapan, Mayonaka no Shadow Boy is Hey!Say!JUMP’s “first actual love song, which is used as a theme to the TV drama “Scrap Teacher - Kyoshi Saisei -” starring Hey! Say! Jump members Yuto Nakajima, Ryosuke Yamada, Yuri Chinen, and Daiki Arioka. The track has painfully sad, passionate lyrics and a melancholic melody with a Spanish taste. Limited edition includes a bonus DVD with music video of the track “Mayonaka no Shadow Boy,” making-of footage, and alternate jacket artwork.”

There will also be a Regular Edition with three bonus karaoke versions.

Yamapi Gets His Degree

2008-09-20T22:43:00.000-07:00

Yamapi!

NEWS member Tomohisa Yamashita has finally graduated from Meiji University's School of Commerce. He entered the school in 2004 and was initially expected to graduate this past spring, but he was a few units short of completing his degree. However, he was able to finish in time for Meiji University's September graduation ceremony, which was held on Friday. Yamashita was joined by about 30 other classmates.

Comedian Tomochika appointed PR ambassador for housing survey

2008-09-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

Tomochika!

Comedian Tomochika, 35, has been appointed PR ambassador for housing and land survey for 2008 by the Ministry of General Affairs. She will appear in TV and on radio to call for cooperation for the national survey.

Tomochika said, “I didn’t know anything about the survey until I was appointed ambassador today.” The survey is conducted every five years to research construction methods, size of houses and family composition nationwide.

Actress Megumi Yokoyama joins Oscar Promotion camp

2008-09-18T22:57:00.000-07:00

Megumi Yokoyama!

Actress Megumi Yokoyama, 39, has joined major talent agency Oscar Promotion, which represents such stars as Ryoko Yonekura, Aya Ueto and Rei Kikukawa.
Yokoyama said, “I would like to do much better as an actress. I want to be able to express the emotional aspects of a character better.” Asked about Yonekura, with whom she will appear in the stage play “Kurokawa no techo” next spring, she said, “Ms Yonekura has a sort of aura. I’m looking forward to working with her.”
Responding to a question about her husband, who is an executive of American Express, Yokoyama said, “He is indifferent to fashion. I need to coordinate his clothes. Otherwise, he would wear the same old jeans which he used to wear when he was a student.” On the question of starting a family, she said: “I’m busy now. I have to focus on work at the moment.”

Are You Avex' Next International J-Pop Star?

2008-09-18T00:07:00.000-07:00

Avex!

AVEX GROUP ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF AVEX STAR SEARCHU.S. portion of avex’s worldwide 20th anniversary talent searchSeeking talented 13-24 year olds interested in becoming a star in Asia(New York, NY) avex group, one of the world's largest independent entertainment companies, has announced the launch of avex star search, the U.S. portion of the avex 20th anniversary avex world audition 2008. avex is seeking talented, U.S-based, male and female musical artists of all racial backgrounds, aged 13-24, interested in becoming a performer and recording artist in Asia. Potential applicants must first sign up online at www.avexstarsearch.com using the audition application form. All accepted applicants will be notified via e-mail about audition requirements, locations, specific requirements and times. Not all applicants will be accepted. Selected talent will be invited to sign a contract with avex group and embark on a career as a performer in Asia. All applicants must be able to temporarily or permanently relocate to Japan. As skill levels and age will vary among selected talent, contract terms will be set on a case by case basis. Selected talent may also be invited --at the expense of Avex-- to attend the avex Artist Academy, where they will receive additional vocal, dance, acting, language and modeling training, refining their skills at one of two state-of-the-art avex facilities. avex group will be holding auditions for avex star search in the 3 U.S cities this Fall, although other cities and states with significant numbers of applicants will be considered for separate auditions.The current audition schedule is: San Francisco, CA - October 25th and 26th, Los Angeles, CA - November 8th and 9th and New York, NY - November 15th and 16thFor more information, official rules and to register for avex star search, please visit: http://www.avexstarsearch.com ABOUT AVEX GROUP:The avex Group (avex) is a fully integrated entertainment business group based in Tokyo and listed on the first section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Its main focus is the domestic audience as well as the rapidly growing East Asian entertainment market. avex is unique in Japan in terms of both the breadth and caliber of its business activities. The Group's major business segments include artist management, musical/visual content production, physical/digital distribution, concert production as well as IP rights development. Its unmatched, seamless in-house platform allows avex to maximize value for artist and the corporate brand as a whole, thereby enabling the avex label to achieve the No.1 market share in the Japanese music market.Avex group Official Web Site: http://www.avex.co.jp/e_site/index.html

J-pop Idols Arashi Returns in November

2008-09-17T22:51:00.000-07:00

Arashi Concert Schedule!

Japanese idol group Arashi returns to Seoul for a series of concerts in November as part of its Asian tour. One of the most popular J-pop groups in Korea, Arashi will hold concerts Nov. 1-2 at the Olympic Fencing Stadium, Olympic Park, southern Seoul. The ``Arashi Around Asia" tour kicked off Sept. 5 with the group's first outdoor concert at the National Stadium, Tokyo. Arashi will perform in Taipei, Taiwan Oct. 11-12, and Shanghai, China Nov. 15.Arashi first performed in Korea in September 2006, as Japan's representative to the 2006 Asia Song Festival in Gwangju. The group returned in November of the same year for four sold-out concerts at Olympic Hall.Arashi, one of the idol groups under Johnny's Entertainment, was formed in 1999. Arashi, which means storm in Japanese, is composed of Masaki Aiba, Jun Matsumoto, Kazunari Ninomiya, Satoshi Ohno and Sho Sakurai. This year, Arashi completed their first ``dome" tour, holding concerts at dome stadiums in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka and Sapporo. The ``Arashi Marks 2008 Dream-A-live" reportedly attracted a total audience of 440,000. Arashi released their eighth studio album ``Dream-A-Live," which debuted at number one on the Oricon charts. Also this year, the group released three single albums, ``Step and Go," ``One Love" and ``Truth/ Kaze no Mukou e," as well as a concert DVD ``Summer Tour 2007 ― Final Time." The group's members are also hosts of weekly television shows such as ``VS Arashi" and ``Arashi's Secret." Aside from their activities as a group, members also appear individually in dramas, movies and television shows.Matsumoto gained fans around Asia for his role as Tsukasa Domyouji in ``Boys Over Flowers," a drama adaptation of the Japanese comic of the same name. He starred in films such as ``Tokyo Tower" and the remake of Akira Kurosawa's ``Hidden Fortress." Ninomiya, also an actor, received critical acclaim for his role in Clint Eastwood's Oscar-nominated film ``Letters From Iwo Jima." He has appeared in several Japanese dramas such as ``Dear Father," and played an autistic marathon runner in the Japanese TV movie ``Marathon," based on the hit Korean film of the same name.Sakurai, a graduate of Keio University, is also a news anchor on NTV's News Zero. He played the lead role in the film ``Honey & Clover," and will star in the live action film version of the anime series ``Yatterman." Ohno recently appeared in the Japanese remake of the Korean drama ``The Devil," while Aiba is a co-host of the show ``Tensai! Shimura Doubutsuen."Arashi will have three concerts Nov. 1 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and one concert Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. Tickets, which go on sale Aug. 24, are 88,000 won. Visit www.auction.co.kr (Korean only).

Miwa Asao back in public eye after sister's death

2008-09-17T00:40:00.001-07:00

Miwa Asao!

Professional beach volleyball player Miwa Asao, 22, on Tuesday appeared at a PR event for Asahi Brewery’s “Clear Asahi” beer. Asao is the image character for the product.

Asked about her 17-year-old sister who died in a car accident on Sept 5, Asao said, “I’m OK now. I will work harder not only for her but also for myself in the next beach volleyball tournament.”

Hideaki Ito introduces new disaster film '252'

2008-09-17T00:38:00.000-07:00

Hideaki!

Actor Hideaki Ito, 33, and other cast members on Tuesday met the press to introduce their new disaster film “252 – survivor confirmed.” The film takes place in Tokyo where a massive typhoon hits the city. “252” is a communication code used by Tokyo firefighters, meaning “survivors.”

Ito, who plays the role of a rescue worker, said, “I was so moved by the idea of self-sacrifice by rescue workers. During filming, we got dirty with dust and clay. And we suffered a lot of injuries on the set. It was really tough.”

The film will be released on Dec 6 nationwide.

Ami Suzuki starts musical in Tokyo

2008-09-17T00:37:00.001-07:00

Ami Suzuki!

TOKYO —

Singer Ami Suzuki, 26, this week started her latest musical, “Kokoro no kakera,” at Aoyama Theater in Tokyo, which is part of music label Avex’s 20th anniversary celebrations. Suzuki was chosen because YU-KI, 41, vocalist of dance group TRF, had to withdraw from the musical due to illness.

Suzuki said, “When YU-KI pulled out, her roles were doled out to other actors and actresses. I think we are more united than before because we have to combine our talents to substitute for her in the musical.”

The musical, which will run through Sept 29, also features the music of Avex artists such as Namie Amuro and Ayumi Hamasaki.

Yoshiki Discusses X Japan Plans

2008-09-16T23:53:00.001-07:00

Yoshiki!

On Monday, X Japan leader Yoshiki held a press conference in Yoyogi to promote a new energy drink, but he also took the opportunity to talk about the upcoming schedule for his reunited band. Though he has not yet fully recovered from his injuries, he re-confirmed previous reports that X Japan will be playing in Paris on November 22.
He said the band will be in Japan for the winter holidays, playing a concert on Christmas and another for the New Year's countdown. The venues are still being decided, but a formal announcement is expected to be made soon.

Yoshiki is embarking on a promotional tour throughout Asia from Tuesday to Friday, visiting Taiwan, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Korea. Upcoming concerts in those cities are being finalized, and Yoshiki commented that China may be added to the list. The postponed New York concert was not mentioned.

Yoshiki also revealed that X Japan has created a new song. In addition, he mentioned that he will be producing music for a U.S. event in 2010 that will celebrate the 100th anniversary of director Akira Kurosawa's birth.

BENNIE K Announces Collaborative Best Album

2008-09-16T23:50:00.001-07:00

BENNIE!

BENNIE K is releasing a best album of their past collaborations, titled THE "BESTEST" BENNIE K SHOW. The album is a collection of 18 songs, including works with m-flo, SEAMO, and SOFFet, as well as a brand new song with DJ HI-KICK called "HI-EXPLOSION."

The album hits store shelves on October 29. The CD+DVD version includes music videos for 10 of the album's tracks.

BENNIE K has also announced that they will perform a free live show at Yoyogi Park on the day before the release. The show will reportedly feature some guest appearances.

DBSK's Newest Japanaese Single: Mirotic

2008-09-16T00:37:00.000-07:00

DBSK!

東方神起 Dong Bang Shin Ki TVXQ- Mirotic

Release Date: October 15, 2008
Language: Japanese
Genre: POP

The last two J-pop singles of Korean boy band Dong Bang Shin Ki, Beautiful You and Doushite Kimi wo Suki ni Natte Shimattan darou?, both turned into Oricon No. 1 hits. The fans are now waiting in anticipation for the release of the band's fourth full-length Korean album. Their latest single is the Japanese version of their upcoming Korean album's principal song.
First Press Limited Edition comes with a cover sleeve-sized collector's card (one out of six randomly selected versions) and a music video DVD.

This means after the group has finished their 4th album activities they will immediately start their promotional work for Mirotic, the Japanese version of the 4th album.

Junpei Mizobata To Host Talk Show

2008-09-14T20:48:00.001-07:00

Junpei Mizobata!

Teen actor Junpei Mizobata will be serving as the main host of a new NTV talk/variety show called "Dare Datte Haran Bakusho." The show, which will air on Sunday mornings at 9:30am, is a replacement for the long-running "Itsu Mitemo Haran Banjo."Since debuting in 2006 after winning the JUNON Superboy Contest, Mizobata has been quickly gaining popularity. Earlier this year, he got his first starring role in the drama series "Hachi-One Diver" and a co-starring role in the movie "DIVE!!" This winter, he will play the male lead in the drama and film adaptations of "Akai Ito."Mizobata's co-hosts on the new show are talento Mari Sekine and announcer Masaaki Horio. The first episode is scheduled for October 5.

Versailles Becomes A "Philharmonic Quintet"

2008-09-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

Versailles!

As reported in August, visual-kei band Versailles has decided to change their name due to a conflict with a U.S. artist. Their new name has finally been revealed as "Versailles -Philharmonic Quintet-." However, the name is expected to only be used for the band's U.S. activities. The band accepted suggestions from fans last month, receiving tens of thousands of messages. For privacy reasons, the band did not reveal the identity of the person who submitted the chosen name. In October, Versailles will be appearing at Anime USA in Arlington, Virginia, followed by a show in New York. As a gesture of thanks to their fans, the band has also made their new song "PRINCE" available for free online.

Oricon Top 10 CD Singles Daily Charts (9.10.08)

2008-09-14T02:42:00.001-07:00

Glay!

GLAY takes the #1 spot with their latest CD single, while last week’s #1, Mr. Children drops to #5. Good showing for UVERworld at #2. Otsuka Ai at #3 and Hello! Project soccer team Ongaku Gatas at #8.

1. GLAY - Aka to Kuro no MATADORA/I LOVE YOU wo Sagashiteru
2. UVERworld - Koishikute
3. Otsuka Ai - Kurage, Nagareboshi
4. DIR EN GREY - GLASS SKIN
5. Mr. Children - Hanabi
6. Nakagawa Shoko - Tsuzuku Sekai
7. Kimura Kaera -Mustache/Memories (original version)
8. Ongaku Gatas - Come Together
9. Superfly - How Do I Survive?
10. Arashi - truth/Kaze no mukou e

Oricon Top 10 Album Daily Charts (9.10.08)

2008-09-14T02:39:00.002-07:00

Hamasaki Ayumi!

Hamasaki Ayumi takes the #1 spot! Amuro Namie continues to stay strong at #3, Kiyoharu has two albums in the top 10, Monkey Majik drops to #7 and another good position for Berryz Kobou.

1. Hamasaki Ayumi - A COMPLETE ~ALL SINGLES~
2. FUNKAHOLiC - Suga Shikao
3. Amuro Namie - BEST FICTION
4. 5(FIVE) - Berryz Kobou
5. Onmyoza - Chimimouryou
6. Are you happy now? - Kuraki Mai
7. MONKEY MAJIK - TIME
8. Led Zeppelin - Definitive Collection of Mini-LP Replica CDs
9. Kiyoharu - shade~saw the light and shade~rhythmless & perspective album
10. Kiyoharu - light~saw the light and shade~rhythmless & perspective album

Kenichi Matsuyama To Star In "Ultra Miracle Love Story"

2008-09-14T02:39:00.001-07:00

Kenichi Matsuyama!

Kenichi Matsuyama's next starring role in a movie will be in Satoko Yokohama's tentatively-titled "Ultra Miracle Love Story." The story is set in Matsuyama's native prefecture of Aomori, and all of his lines will be spoken in the difficult Tsugaru dialect from that area.

Matsuyama plays a young man living an agricultural life in Aomori. He falls in love for the first time with a woman who has come from Tokyo (Kumiko Aso). The supporting cast includes Misako Watanabe, Yoshio Harada, and Yumiko Fujita.

Filming starts on the 13th and is expected to last a month. The movie opens next year.

Thelma Aoyama Sets A Guinness World Record

2008-09-14T02:37:00.000-07:00

Thelma Aoyama!

Thelma Aoyama's hit "Soba ni Iru ne" is currently the best-selling song as a full mobile download (chaku-uta) in Japan. That title has now been officially recognized by the Guinness World Records, and Aoyama has been presented with her certificate.

"Soba ni Iru ne" was released in January and had been downloaded to mobile phones 2 million times as of July, when the application was filed with Guinness. The song currently stands at a total of 8.2 million downloads across various formats, including 3.55 million chaku-uta downloads and 2.15 million chaku-uta full downloads. The CD release was the top-selling single for the first half of 2008.

"Code Blue" To Get New Year's Special

2008-09-14T02:35:00.000-07:00

Code Blue!

Fuji TV's medical drama series "Code Blue" ended its run on Thursday, but the network has announced that a special two-hour episode will air during the New Year's period at the start of 2009.

According to Video Research Ltd.'s viewership data, the last episode had ratings of 19.5%, putting the entire series average at 15.9%. With the rest of this season's dramas almost over as well, it appears that "Code Blue" will have the highest ratings of the summer.

The special episode is set to take place after the events of the final episode. The main cast has been confirmed as returning, including Tomohisa Yamashita, Yui Aragaki, Erika Toda, Manami Higa, and Yosuke Asari.

New Couples Segment Added To "Happy Sunday".

2008-09-14T02:33:00.001-07:00

New Couples!

KBS 2TV added a new celebrity-couples segment to their Sunday program, "Happy Sunday."

Tak Jae-hoon and Shin Jung-hwan will be hosting the segment and the guest panel includes singer Lee Min-woo, actor Shin Dong-wook, singer Tim, Gil from Leessang and volleyball player Moon Sung-min. The female guests are Park Jung-ah, Jung Si-ah, Tiffany, Amy and Hong In-young.

The group recently returned from their first shoot in Saipan, which took place from August 30th to September 4th.

"The celebrities will invite someone they have been interested in and get to know them during a trip somewhere," explained the producers. "Audiences will get to see the true, sensitive side of celebrities as they open their hearts on air."

Magazine T

2008-09-14T02:29:00.000-07:00

Magazine T!

For those of you who’re just as crazy about Jpop as you are about Kpop, Magazine t has journeyed across the sea to the Land of the Rising Sun for a little inside look into the Johnny’s Entertainment empire.

The internet zine went to much trouble cataloguing a mini encyclopedia of boybands such as Arashi, NewS, KAT-TUN and SMAP along with some of Johnny Kitagawa’s major projects like “Long Vacation” and “Nobuta wo Produce”. With an establishment that dwarfs SM’s, JYP’s and YG’s combined, this little snippet of the Japanese mogul’s monopoly of boybands shows how much more their Korean counterparts can learn from them.

Morning Musume To Perform Pink Lady's 1970s Hit

2008-09-10T21:31:00.001-07:00

Morning Musume!

Pop group Morning Musume will revive a popular 1970s song by Pink Lady, “Pepper Keibu (Lieutenant),” as part of a tribute album to composer Yu Aku who passed away last year. The album will feature another 13 songs composed by Aku in collaboration with several artists and be released on Nov 26.

Morning Musume singer Risa Niigaki, 19, has already appeared in a TV drama about the life of Aku who composed a lot of pop songs.

Perfume Gets A New Show

2008-09-10T21:27:00.000-07:00

Perfume!

Electropop phenomenon Perfume is getting a new weekly show on NTV. "Perfume no Kininaru Ko-chan" features the idol trio and talento Daisuke Miyagawa meeting with new guests every week to discuss interesting topics.

The show will air on Saturdays at 5:30pm, starting on October 11. The first episode's guests will be Hiroaki Ogi (Ogiyahagi), Kendo Kobayashi, Naoki Nokubo, and Ryota Yamasato (Nankai Candies).

Thelma Aoyama Covers Miho Nakayama For "Cafe Kichijoji"theme

2008-09-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

Thelma Aoyama!

R&B artist Thelma Aoyama will be providing the theme song for TV Tokyo's live-action "Cafe Kichijoji de" series, starting on September 29. The song is a cover of the 1988 hit "You're My Only Shinin' Star," originally sung by actress/idol Miho Nakayama.

"You're My Only Shinin' Star" was Nakayama's 12th single and her second to reach #1 on the Oricon charts.

The single for Aoyama's version is scheduled to go on sale later this year.

LM.C Expands Overseas Tour, Announces Two Albums

2008-09-10T05:58:00.000-07:00

Visual-kei band LM.C!

Visual-kei band LM.C has announced more information about their overseas tour next year. The group was already scheduled to tour Europe from late January to early February, but now they have added shows in South America and Asia.

Before heading to Europe, LM.C will play in Chile, on January 23 and Brazil, on January 25. Their Europe tour begins on January 28 in Italy and ends in Finland on February 8. They will then travel to Taiwan for two shows on February 13-14, followed by a concert in Korea the next day. Details are available on the band's official website.

LM.C has also announced that they will be releasing two albums simultaneously on November 5. One is their first true full-length album, titled "GIMMICAL IMPACT!!" The other is "SUPER GLITTER LOUD BOX," an expanded version of last year's mini-album "GLITTER LOUD BOX."

BoA Will Eat You Up

2008-09-10T05:57:00.000-07:00

BoA!

SM Entertainment held a press conference today at Seoul’s Imperial Palace Hotel which was named “Best of Asia, Bring on America” as BoA plans to enter the American market was revealed to the media and fans. (she had injured her arm falling down the stairs before the press conference)

BoA’s American debut song is officially titled “Eat You Up”. It will be a powerful dance track and was produced by Bloodshy & Avant. Flo-Rida, a rapper who was extremely successful the American billboard charts with “Low” will be featuring with a rap remix. A documentary about BoA’s American activities, “Eat You Up”, “Look Who’s Tailing” MV teasers was officially shown during the press conference. There will also be two versions of BoA’s “Eat You Up” music video.

BoA debut single for the American market “Eat You Up” will be released online as a digital single on 14th October and subsequently as a single album on 11th November in America. The full “Eat You Up” MV will be out on 7th October. BoA is also planning to release her full-length english album in early 2009.

Narimiya To Lead Terrorists In "Bloody Monday"

2008-09-10T05:56:00.001-07:00

Hiroki Narimiya!

Actor Hiroki Narimiya has been added to the cast of the TBS drama series "Bloody Monday," based on a suspense manga by Ryo Ryumon. The show stars Haruma Miura as a hacker fighting a terrorist organization, and Narimiya will be playing the head of the terrorists.

Narimiya has also been cast in the Fuji TV drama series "Innocent Love," which stars Maki Horikita. In contrast to his role in "Bloody Monday," he portrays a naive man who is unable to open up his heart to the one he loves.

"Bloody Monday" will air Sunday nights, starting on October 11. "Innocent Love" will be broadcast on Monday nights.

GLAY Opens Mobile Site

2008-09-07T02:09:00.001-07:00

Glay!

Fans eagerly awaiting this new development can now be satiated! GLAY opens their new mobile site [GLAY MOBILE] which includes their discography, biographies and latest news on the band's activities. In addition, video clips will also be uploaded for fans, and for the first time ever the band will start a blog.

Finally, long-term members (i think they mean fan club members) who have their membership for at least 3 months, will be able to access a "premium corner" on the webpage from now till 31st October.

SPEED's Imai Has New Movie Role

2008-09-07T02:07:00.000-07:00

Eriko Imai!

Eriko Imai, of the recently reunited group SPEED, has been given her first film appearance since five years ago. The movie is "Yuzuriha ~Kimi mo Mata Tsugi no Kimi e~," directed by Kentaro Hayase.

The picture is a 60th-anniversary project of the Japanese Federation of the Deaf. Imai recently revealed that her 3-year-old son Raimu has hearing problems. In the movie, her role requires the use of sign language. She commented that she has been learning it for the past 5 months, and she recalled her joy when Raimu learned to call her "mama" in sign language just two months ago.

Imai's last movie role was in Yojiro Takita's "Onmyoji II" in 2003. "Yuzuriha" is being released next year.

George Yamamoto's Daughter Takes Up Singing

2008-09-07T02:06:00.001-07:00

The daughter of singer George Yamamoto is following in his footsteps. The 21-year-old Kotono will make her debut on a song called "Kareha no Ballad," a duet with her father. It will be the coupling song to George Yamamoto's single coming out in January.

Yamamoto revealed in July that Kotono has been aiming to become a singer. She dropped out of junior college and began taking voice lessons three months ago. She has also started studying guitar, composition, and songwriting.

Kotono plans to start doing solo performances in November, followed by a solo single sometime next year.

Oricon Top 10 Album Daily Charts

2008-09-07T02:04:00.001-07:00

Oricon!

NOTE: Sound Horizon takes the #1 spot away from Amuro Namie on New Release Wednesday but can they hold on for the whole week? Amuro Namie drops to #3 but with five consecutive weekly Oricon Chart #1 rankings, it will be interesting to see if Amuro Namie can get a sixth or if Sound Horizon can last at #1 for the whole week. A lot of first time entries to the Oricon Top 10 Daily Charts.

1. Sound Horizon - Moira
2. MONKEY MAJIK - TIME
3. Amuro Namie - BEST FICTION
4. THE BACK HORN - Pulse
5. Code Geass RS Sound Episode 3
6. The Verve - Forth - Special Edition
7. Tokunaga Hideaki - SINGLES BEST
8. GLORY HILL - GOING NOWHERE
9. Marumasa - WORLD
10. SUPER BUTTER DOG - SUPER BETTER BETTER DOG

Oricon Top 10 CD Singles

2008-09-07T02:03:00.000-07:00

Oricon!

NOTE: Mr. Children releases another CD single in a little over a months since “GIFT” and takes the #1 spot with “Hanabi” and denying Johnny’s Jimusho group TOKIO from top position. Avex’s first self-produced group, GIRL NEXT DOOR takes the #3 spot. Arashi still continues to hang strong in the top 10 while last week’s #1, KinKi Kids drops to #6.

1. Mr. Children - Hanabi
2. TOKIO - Amagasa / Akireru Kurai Bokura wa Negao
3. GIRL NEXT DOOR - Guzen no Kakuritsu
4. Quruli - Sayonara regret Kyoto Ongaku Hakurankai 2008 Kinenban
5. Arashi - truth/Kaze no Muko e
6. KinKi Kids - Secret Code
7. Fujioka Fujimaki & Nozomi Ohashi - Ponyo on the Cliff
8. Suga Shikao - Kono Yubi Tomare
9. BENNIE K - Music Traveler
10. L’Arc~en~Ciel - NEXUS 4/SHINE

"Itazura Na Kiss" Gets A Theatrical Adaptation

2008-09-07T02:02:00.001-07:00

Itsura Na Kiss!

The popular shojo manga series "Itazura na Kiss" is being adapted to the stage. Galulu member Asami Abe is starring as the protagonist Kotoko, while Ren Yagami plays the male lead Naoki.

Performances will be held at the Theater Sun-Mall from November 27 to December 7.

Goodbye Turtleman, Goodbye Turtles

2008-09-07T02:00:00.000-07:00

Turtles!

3-member group Turtles' official declaration of the dissolution of the band was held on 4th September. And the remaining member Geum Bi and Ji Ah was seen in tears at the declaration ceremony.

Turtles debuted in 2001 and member Turtleman passed away in April 2008. The last album they released was their 5th album and the last single they promoted together was “Sing Lala”.

The absence of the late Turtleman felt so strongly at the conference that day, the 2 other members were in tears.

Geum Bi and Ji Ah said, ” The name Turtles started out with oppa’s name ‘Turtleman‘. Now with oppa gone, there is no more meaning to Turtles anymore.”

“Our previous songs are composed by oppa. Even if we are to sing new songs in the future as Turtles, there will no longer be the Turtles’s feel anyway.”

“We hope that everyone will not forget the smiles that Turtles‘ music brought to them. We will work hard and live well in the future. We cannot be together with Im Seong Hoon (Turtleman) but we will be together with him in our hearts”.

A special 6th album “Turtles: Stories untold” in commemorance of the late Turtleman was released on 24th August.

TV Asahi Drama Lets Celebs Create Stories

2008-09-07T01:59:00.000-07:00

A TV Asahi drama special called "Tsujitsuma" is being partly written by comedian Junichi Komoto, idol Shoko Nakagawa, and singer Ataru Nakamura.

The drama is comprised of three stories, each by one of the celebrity participants. Each of them was responsible for coming up with the general story, as well as establishing the first and last scenes. Of the three, only Komoto is involved in helping to write the script for his story.

Casting has not yet been announced, though Mitsuru Fukikoshi has been given the role of "storyteller." The show airs on September 26 at 11:15pm.

BoA Is Advancing Into America, For Real

2008-09-07T01:58:00.001-07:00

Boa!

‘Asia’s Star’ BoA is finally advancing into America. .

A news conference ‘Best of Asia, Bring on America’ will be held on 10th September in Seoul Paris Hotel, which will reveal the plan of BoA’s advance into America.

The slogan ‘ Best of Asia, Bring on America!’ was made especially from BoA’s initial - that BoA will be making the best advance into America.

This press conference will not only announce BoA’s first step into the American market but awill also present the blueprint of her activities of her advance into the market.

On another hand, BoA’s advance into America is viewed to cause a huge echo of response throughout the country and Asia. And will be much anticipated by music fans.

YUI To Release Complete B-side Album

2008-09-07T01:56:00.000-07:00

Yui!

Singer YUI, who recently announced that she will be taking a short break from work to re-energize herself, has revealed plans for a compilation album this fall. The title is currently unknown, but it will reportedly contain all of the coupling songs from her 12 singles released to date. It will also include one new song, said to be near completion.

The album goes on sale November 12

Kazumasa Oda To Be Oldest Artist To Hold Dome Tour

2008-09-03T21:12:00.001-07:00

Kazumasa Oda!

Singer Kazumasa Oda has announced an extension to his current tour, which has been going on since April 5. With tickets in high demand for all 52 shows on the tour, Oda has tacked on four dome concerts. He will play at Tokyo Dome on November 26-27, Nagoya Dome on December 6, and Osaka Dome on December 20.When he starts that leg of the tour, he will be 61 years and 2 months old, qualifying him as the oldest solo artist to hold a dome tour. This barely beats Kenji Sawada, who turned 60 in June and had announced dome performances in Osaka and Tokyo for later this year.

Haruka Kinami To Play Kyoko In "20th Century Boys"

2008-09-03T21:11:00.001-07:00

Haruka Kinamihas !

23-year-old actress Haruka Kinamihas landed her biggest role yet, playing the key character Kyoko in the second chapter of the "20th Century Boys" movie trilogy. The film is scheduled for release on January 31, 2009. In the story, Kyoko is a schoolmate of Kanna (played by Airi Taira), the niece of the protagonist Kenji (Toshiaki Karasawa). Kyoko becomes an important character in unraveling the mystery of the "Friend" organization, whom Kenji and his friends are trying to stop. She appears briefly at the end of the first movie, which is currently playing in theaters. According to producers, Kyoko will have just as much importance as Kanna in the film. Kinami has had numerous minor roles in television dramas, including "Dandori ~Dance Drill~" and "Asakusa Fukumaru Ryokan 2."

Tetsudo Musume Cast Includes Ami Tokito, Members Of AKB48...

2008-09-03T21:09:00.000-07:00

Tetsudo Musume!

Late last month, it was confirmed that Tetsudo Musume, a line of figures produced by Tomytec, would be turned into a live-action drama series, titled "Tetsudo Musume ~ Girls be ambitious". Now, cast details have been revealed, and idol Ami Tokito has been named as one of the main characters. The drama is an omnibus series, portraying the lives of women working at railroad companies. Tokito plays an employee of Keisei Electric Railway,while Rin Takanashi plays an apprentice railroad idol. The rest of the main cast members are Idoling's Mai Endo, Erika Tonooka, and Erika Yazawa, along with AKB48's Tomomi Kasai and Sae Miyazawa. "Tetsudo Musume" will air on six UHF networks, including TV Kanagawa, Television Saitama, and Chiba TV. Broadcast begins in October.

Charts: Amuro, KinKi Kids Extend Their Streaks

2008-09-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

Namie Amuro!

Pop star Namie Amuro has achieved her 5th consecutive week atop the charts with "BEST FICTION." The album is still selling well at 63,000 copies, though the lack of other high-profile releases has also helped her keep the #1 spot. And with total sales reaching 1.25 million, the album has now surpassed EXILE's "CATCHY BEST" as the best-selling album of 2008.The last album to top the charts for 5 weeks was GLAY's 1997 collection "REVIEW ~BEST OF GLAY~," while the last female solo artist to do it was Akina Nakamori with "Best Akina Memoirs" in 1983, back before the CD era.A few other artists made the top ten with new releases: DJ MAKIDAI of EXILE (#3), livetune with virtual idol Miku Hatsune (#5), and RSP (#7).Meanwhile, KinKi Kids unsurprisingly took the singles chart, selling 187,000 copies of "Secret Code." They now have 27 consecutive #1 singles since their debut, extending their Guinness World Record. L'Arc~en~Ciel unfortunately released "NEXUS 4 / SHINE" at the same time, which means they ended up at #2 even though their single sold 110,000 copies.The rest of the top ten included new songs by Acid Black Cherry (#4), comedy trio Hisoukan (#5), Shonannokaze (#6), AAA (#9), and Every Little Thing (#10).

Ayaka Hirahara To Make Acting Debut In "Kaze No Garden"

2008-09-03T06:36:00.001-07:00

Ayaka Hirahara!

Singer Ayaka Hirahara is set to make her full-fledged acting debut with a role in the upcoming Fuji TV drama series "Kaze no Garden" ,penned by popular screenwriter Sou Kuramoto.

Announced back in April, the drama stars Kiichi Nakai as a doctor who lost his wife to suicide. After learning that he has terminal cancer, he returns home to Hokkaido to live with his aging father (Ken Ogata), bringing his two children with him (Meisa Kuroki, Ryunosuke Kamiki). Hirahara plays a young woman who meets the doctor through a medical examination, and the two become lovers.

In addition to appearing throughout the whole series, Hirahara has been given the task of providing the show's theme song and an insert song. In 2005, Hirahara sang the theme song for Sou Kuramoto's "Yasashii Jikan."

"Kaze no Garden" airs on Thursday nights at 10:00pm, starting on October 9.

Koyuki, Ayase Swing Into Action For Viera TV Ads

2008-09-03T06:35:00.001-07:00

Koyuki,Ayase!

Actresses Koyuki, 31, and Haruka Ayase, 23, got to experience some action scenes in their new ads for Panasonic’s Viera TV sets and Diga Blu-ray recorder. The two appear in scenes “copied” from the Chinese historical epic film “Red Cliff.” In the ad, Koyuki flies through the air.

“I had to do a lot of training for wire action at the studio. I really enjoyed it,” she said. Ayase, who appears in the ads as Koyuki’s sister, said: “I’d like to be the active girl next time rather than the gentle sister.”

The three new TV ads will air from September 5.

Ryoko Yonekura Relishes Villainous Role In Special Drama

2008-09-03T06:34:00.001-07:00

Ryoko Yonekura!

Actress Ryoko Yonekura, 33, and Hiroshi Tachi, 58, will star in a special drama this weekend to mark TV Asahi’s 50th anniversary. In the drama, “Kori no hana,” Yonekura plays a woman who poisons her husband’s lover for revenge.

She said she enjoyed playing a villainous character. “Actually, I can feel a lot of sympathy for my character. If I were married and my husband cheated on me, I would sue him and demand compensation.”

The drama will air on the TV Asahi network on Friday and Saturday.

Hiro Mizushima, Anne Suzuki Star In Roommate Comedy

2008-09-02T06:00:00.001-07:00

Hiro Mizushima!

Hiro Mizushima and Anne Suzuki will co-star in a Fuji TV drama series titled "ROOM OF KING," airing this fall. The show is an unusual comedy scripted by director/screenwriter Ellie Omiya.

The story revolves around a group of housemates sharing a high-class apartment in Tokyo's Aoyama district. Mizushima plays a part-timer while Suzuki plays an OL. They begin living with a venereologist (Haruka Igawa) and a popular stylist (Atsuro Watabe), but after a series of events, they find themselves all competing in a game to win ownership of the apartment.

Fuji TV will broadcast "ROOM OF KING" on Saturday nights at 11:10pm, starting on October 4.

Interview With Jun Matsumoto And Inoue Mao

2008-09-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

Jun & Mao!

BOYS Over Flowers The Movie is all about how true love overcomes all odds. But, love turns out to be a taboo subject for the leading couple Jun Matsumoto and Mao Inoue.

In a short e-mail interview with The New Paper, they both left our questions about love unanswered. Instead, they were happier talking about their roles - he plays the overbearing, hot-headed millionaire's heir Tsukasa Domyouji, while she is his ordinary but tough-as-nails fiancee Tsukushi Makino.

The Japanese movie, which is the final chapter of the two-season drama serial Hana Yori Dango (or Meteor Garden), tells of how the couple travel to Los Angeles and Hong Kong to find a stolen tiara. It opens here on Thursday.

Jun Matsumoto, 25

Q: What do you think is the biggest appeal of Domyouji? What's your best memory of being Domyouji?

A: I think his charm lies in how he is straightforward in everything he does and how he cares for Makino. After playing Domyouji, I got influenced by how he can believe in people so strongly.

Q: How's your relationship with the other three F4 members in real life? Please share with us a little-known fact about each of them - Shun Oguri, Tsuyoshi Abe, Shota Matsuda.

A: I've known Shun for a long time. He has huge passion for acting. As for Shota, he made me laugh during filming. I think he's changed the most in the show. Abe-kun is a very kind person. He is a gentle person who watches over everyone.

Q: The movies marks the end of the Hana Yori Dango series after three years. Are you sad to let it go, or glad that it's finally over?

A: I believe I've done all that I can for this role. It's a very satisfactory final chapter for me. The strong bond that was built among us left a huge impression on me. I believe when you watch this movie, you will definitely feel it.

Q: In many ways you're like Domyouji, don't you think? He is used to getting what he wants, and everyone fawns over him. You, as leader of boy band Arashi, should also be used to being the VIP and having fans fawn over you. In what other ways do you think you're most like him? Is your opinion/belief on love the same as Domyouji's too?

A: I don't have so much money like him (laughs)! I think I have nothing much in common with him.

Q: Domyouji had to choose between his beloved Makino and his wealthy family. In real life, would you give up fame for love? What's the biggest sacrifice you've ever made in the name of love?

A: (blank)

Q: A large part of the movie is about romance. Personally for you, what is the ideal romantic date?

A: (blank)

Mao Inoue, 21

Q: What do you think is the biggest appeal of Makino? What's your best memory of being Makino?

A: Her unselfishness and straightforwardness for everything, and her 'Tsukushi Punch'. I have punched many people (in the drama series), but the first time I punched Domyouji left me a deep impression.

Q: Makino is a very frank, daring girl who pursues her love in the show. Are you like her in that way?

A: We're alike in that sometimes we can't make up our mind, but once we do, we'd just go straight ahead and do it.

Q: Makino was initially torn between Domyouji and Hanazawa. In real life, who do you find more attractive - Jun Matsumoto or Shun Oguri? How was it working with both of them?

A: (blank)

Q: Domyouji says to Makino: 'She has stolen my heart forever' and 'I will stake my life on caring for and protecting you'. Which is a more romantic declaration for you? In real life, how can a guy win your heart?

A: (blank)

Q: The movie marks the end of the Hana Yori Dango series after three years. Are you sad to let it go, or glad that it's finally over?

A: I'm very happy that I was able to produce another piece of work for the series. It was a big challenge but it also presented a big opportunity for us.

'Best Jeanists' Announced

2008-09-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

Best Jeanists!

The Japan Jeans Association on Monday announced this year’s Best Jeanists, selecting singer Kumi Koda, 25, KAT-TUN member Kazuya Kamenashi, 22, and three other winners. Beijing Olympic fencing silver medalist Yuki Ota, 22, also won a Best Jeanist award in the association’s special section. Koda (for best overalls) and Kamenashi won the award for the third successive year.

Asked about his selection, Ota said, “Up until now, I never thought the award had anything to do with my life. I feel like it’s not right for me to be here today. Although I usually wear a sweatsuit, I will try jeans more often.” Kamenashi said of Ota: “I would like him to teach me fencing and we can talk about jeans together.” Koda added that she would like to coordinate clothes for Ota.

Other recipients were model-actress Anne, 22, who is the daughter of actor Ken Watanabe, fashion designer Hiroko Koshino, 71, and South Korean actor So Ji Sub, 30.

The event is part of Tokyo Fashion Week which kicked off on Monday and runs through Sunday.

http://www.tudou.com/playlist/playindex.do?lid=3795268&iid=19476879

2008-08-31T21:37:00.001-07:00

Big Bang’s 2nd Consecutive Mutizen Award

2008-08-31T21:18:00.000-07:00

Big Bang!

Group Big Bang has made it to their 2nd consecutive Mutizen award on SBS Inkigayo with the song “Haru Haru”.They were on Inkigayo on 31st August in SBS Hall performing the song “Haru Haru”. The song also won them their first Mutizen on 24th August last week on Inkigayo.The other contenders for the Mutizen Award are Davichi with “Love and Warfare”, 2AM with “This song”, Kim Gun Mo with “Kiss”, Seo In Young with “Cinderella”, Um Jung Hwa with “DISCO” and Cool’s “I want love”.On the same episode of Inkigayo are also performers like FT Island, Um Jung Hwa, Kim Gun Mo and Lee Hyori with her next single “Hey Mr. Big” after “U-Go-Girl”.

JYP Set To Collaborate With SMAP

2008-08-31T05:40:00.001-07:00

SMAP!

If Park Jin Young’s songs are good enough for Will Smith, Mase and Cassie, then the Asian Soul sure is good enough for SMAP. J-pop’s “best selling group ever” has included the song writing skills of JYP in their new album, [Super.Modern.Artistic.Performance] which drops on 9.24.

For coherence sake, SMAP also has contributing to the album, Will.i.am (Black Eyed Peas) and Burt Bacharach (legendary composer of classics such as “What the world needs now” and “Raindrops keep falling on my head”)

Do As Infinity Reuniting

2008-08-31T05:39:00.001-07:00

Do as Infinity!

The popular band Do As Infinity is getting back together, it was announced on Saturday. The group made a surprise appearance at a-nation to break the news, though it was also revealed on their official website.

Led by vocalist Tomiko Van, the group was active between 1999 and 2005. This past spring, the group's members and staff met again, and they began discussing the possibility of a reunion. They have chosen September 29 as the date they officially resume activities, starting with a free show at Yoyogi Park on September 30.

The band plans to focus on live performances in the future, but they also aim to release new material next spring.

Four New Songs And A Tour For An Cafe

2008-08-31T05:38:00.001-07:00

Oshare-kei band An cafe!

Popular oshare-kei band An cafe hosted their "ANCAFESTA 08: SUMMER DIVE" show in Yokohama on August 30th, despite dark clouds that threatened to pour heavy rain on the outdoor venue. Thankfully, the weather held for most of the performance, and they had some special news for all their Cafekko that was saved until the very end of the show: they will release a special 4-track single, and go on tour in celebration of their 5th anniversary!

The single, "Ko Akuma USAGI no Koibumi to Machine Gun e.p.", will be released October 29th, and include four tracks. Two versions, a limited press with DVD and a regular pressing, will be made. As for their tour, it will be called "NYAPPY GO AROUND LOVE & GUN", and begin November 15th at Yokohama Bay Hall, ending on January 5th at Tokyo's JCB Hall. Information regarding ticket sales to the general public has not yet been released.

For more details, check out An Cafe's official website. You can also read a special message to all Cafekko from Miku, who is probably still soaking wet after their performance in the heavy rain.

Ryoko Shinohara Back In Public 3 Months After Having Baby

2008-08-31T05:36:00.001-07:00

Ryoko Shinohara!

Actress Ryoko Shinohara, 35, was back in the public eye Thursday, looking quite trim three months after having a baby. Shinohara appeared at an event for a human resource company for which she is the “image character.” She hasn’t made any official appearances since last September when she announced a temporary hiatus to give birth to her first baby in May of this year.

Wearing a black one-piece dress, Shinohara said she had lost 7-8 kg after giving birth. “I have had a good rest, almost like a vacation really. I’m happy to back at work, but now my challenge is to find a balance between work and home.”

Asked about her son, she answered: “Many people say my son resembles both me and my husband (actor Masachika Ichimura, 59). I hope he has the best parts of both of us.”

Shinohara will take a little more time off before resuming her film career next spring, said her agent.

YUI To Take A Break From Music For The Remainder Of The Year

2008-08-31T05:35:00.001-07:00

Yui!

Singer/Songwriter and actress YUI (21) announced on her Website on the 29th that she will be taking a break from any music activity this year and focus on music production activity in 2009.

YUI was discovered at a SONY audition back in 2004 at the age of 17. Known for such hits as “CHE.R.R.Y” and “Rolling Star”, reached the no. 1 position on the Oricon Weekly Album Charts with her second album “Can’t Buy Me Love” and repeated at no. 1 in 2008 with her third album “I Loved Yesterday”.