Okay! Musume Digest #35

Okay! Digest Time. Are you ready to have your weekly fill of Idoru News?

It feels like it has been SO so long since I last blogged here, I don't know why... Maybe it has to do with the gaming binge (Sims 3 and Harvest Moon) that I have had... hm...

Also: Snow. Lots of. Too bad the damn cars had to come around ruin it! Urrrgh!!! The roads look so ugly now!!!

In more personal news and updates, my niece celebrated her first birthday! My mother made a giant (rock hard) cake for her, it was pink with lottsa chocolate and sprinkles and was sooo sickly but oh so good! I miss the cake... It was the size of my head, possibly bigger.

And in Weekly Controversies, Kusumi Koharu spilled the beans on her Idol career and how it was simply a stepping stone for her to becoming a model. Basicaly she slandered her time in Morning Musume or something and some people are going a bit crazy over it. Personally I don't care, I love Koha no matter what, and Idols have always used groups or industries as stepping stones into bigger things; I'm sure half or nearly all of the new AKB girls are there to get themselves known. My only beef with this whole thing is that Koha ignored others and did what she wanted and also questioned Sayu's love for MoMusu. Anyway, bottom line; Koharu said it how it is for most idols in the industry now, and regardless of this, I still think she's awesome.

And now I don't have to write a post on this! YAAAY!

 Video of the Week

I feel like sticking Balalaika or something on here for this week's video, but I won't, because I have a song I've been crazy for this past week...

COME ON! by Dream5!

Come on, Come on, Come on, Come on... How can this not get stuck in your head? Seriously now... I actually didn't like this song much when I first heard it, but then one day this week I just started to remember the sound and realised that damn this tune is GOOD! Also... Kotori is HOT! Regardless of how old she may be, of course... but whatever, everyone is awesome in this... and Mikoto rocks this video and those cat ears! For once I don't want to burn them. And hey, Kotori, is that Haruka's Help me!! hat I see, or was it yours first?

Yours. It was yours.

Urgh, I need to review this PV just to take screen caps of Kotori and Mikoto and all of them!!!

Picture of the Week

Stupidly enough, I forgot which image I had used for last week, and I was ready to use it again... when I remembered I have already used it. See, this is how slow it's been this week; I am forgetting things!!! Arrrgh! I actually had to mentally remind myself that it was Tuesday and check the calender a few times before I was certain.

Well whatever, here have some Kudo love. The Loli Queen is here for you all!

Poll of the Week

Out of random curiosity, I will be asking this question:

Who is you current Morning Musume Oshi?

I honestly had no idea what else to put for this week, but before Reina leaves I do want to ask who you support and love the most out of the current line-up. I may do one of these questions again in the future but with all past and present MoMusu members.

Choose wisely, my pretties...

And with that said and done, let's move on to the final portion of the Digest, shall we?

NEWS OF THE WEEK

It has been announced that BiS will be releasing a new single on March 13th 2013. Currently the single is untitled and will be released in three different editions; LIVE edition, MUSIC VIDEO edition and CD edition. The LIVE edition will come with a DVD containing footage from their Mada Major Janai Mon!! which was held in July 2012. The new song is said to be an emotional rock number.

Do you know what that picture of BiS says? It says to buy this mother-f***ing single or they're gonna beat you black and blue.

THAT'S what the image says.

Source

A rumour about AKB48 member Kobayashi Kana has been spreading through twitter that she is in a relationship with a former Johnny's Actor, it has been reported.

The rumour began to spread on January 13th after a convenience store worker tweeted that Kana had come to the store with a man who is supposedly her boyfriend. Kobayashi came to know of the rumour through her fans and denied the rumours.

“I was surprised when I woke up and checked Twitter! I don’t even have a Sunkus (convenience store) near my home. Even though it’s false information, thank you for worrying about me.” - Kana (Tokyohive)

(more information via Tokyohive)

Really now, man? It's barely the start of the year and already that damn rumour mill is spinning! Why, convenience store worker, why? I swear... -mumble mumble mumble-

By the way I have no idea who she is~

Source

It has been announced that HKT48's debut single will be released this March on the 20th! The single is currently untitled and there will be three versions to choose from; Type A, B and C. Each version will come with a DVD.

It has also been announced that one of the coupling songs has been chosen as the CM song for Lotte's Ghana Milk Chocolate. The song has been titled Onegai Valentine.

2nd Generation Kenkyuusei member Tashima Meru commented on the single;

“I am so excited that our long-cherished CD debut has been set! I want many people to know about HKT, and with our youthfulness and freshness, I hope we can show a different color from other 48 groups.”

Ah finally, some confirmation! However, isn't the single releasing a little late for Valentine's day, Aki-P? It's also going to be too late for White Day.

Way to mix up your Hallmark Holidays!

Source

The short PV for SKE48's Sore wo Seishun to Yobu Hi has been released. The song will be a coupling track for SKE48's next single, Choco no Dorei, and is also the graduation song for the 9 members who recently announced their graduation from the group. The group have been called Tabidachi Sotsugyou-gumi, and the song will be included in the Type A, B and C singles of Choco no Dorei.

The song is very pretty and reminds me of departure, which is essentially what the song is all about here. It's sad that these girls are all graduating, however it's heart warming to know that they will depart with such a beautiful song together. Hopefully everyone can check it out and wish the girls luck on their future endeavours!

Source

Sengoku Minami and Yajima Maimi have both been featured on Adidas' futsal webpage.

I really have no interest in sport (I'm a lazy arse), however it's great to see that Maimi and Minami were able to model for adidas and promote futsal as well!

Source

It has been revealed that Takahashi Ai is starring in the BS-TBS drama Ryusei Vacation!

For all you Takahashi Ai fans out there, definitely check out the drama if you want to see your Idol doing what she loves! This news is great, and I hope that all fans can tune in and watch Ai work her acting magic!

Source

Mano Erina's profile images have been updated~

Mano Erina's final profile images for Hello! Project have been updated, and show her in the outfit from her Best Of album BEST FRIENDS. This is so sad... she is truly leaving us DX

In other news, it looks like she stepped out of the 80's or something. That jacket is so cheesy xD

Source

Tsugunaga Momoko will release an e!-Hello DVD titled Momo Play 3 -Rest Another Day-.

Oh yay, another release from Momoko, whoo... //sarcasm.

Source

Two video's featuring Oda Sakura have been uploaded to Morning Musume's official youtube channel. The first features her promoting her debut single Help me!! whilst the second video contains footage of her audition through to being accepted into Morning Musume and receiving the song for her debut, much like a short documentary.

These two video's are great; they really show off the cute personality that Sakura has (and seriously lacked in the Help me!! PV), and the short documentary is so sweet and really highlights both Sakura's talent and her undeniable sweetness. It's great to see that UFP are intent on promoting her, and both these video's are a great way of showing off he sole 11th gen member and selling the single, too.

Please check out both video's and be sure to subscribe to Morning Musume's official youtube channel as well as buy a copy of the single.

Source | Source

JIJIPRESS have released a video reporting on the recent event where Sharam Q announced their 25th Anniversary tour in August and the re-release of their hit single Single Bed.

Look at Tsunku and all his SWAG. Though their costumes are a bit, erm...

Oh well, whatever. Rock it, Sharam Q! Make those housewives squee in delight or whatever! And really, Tsunku? AKB48?

We love you and all but that's aiming a bit high, y'know?

Source

Fukuda Kanon will hold a handshake event for the release of her solo DVD Dress Up Kanon on January 23rd, 2013. Also it has been announced that Kanon will be holding a birthday fanclub event on March 12th, 2013.

Two events for Fukuda Kanon to get excited for! This will be a great chance for fans of Kanon to go to her release event and see her in person or to experience her birthday with her for a day. Hopefully all fans within the area can go to the release event or her birthday event.

Source | Source

Fujimoto Miki will be holding a 10 year Anniversary celebrating FC event on March 23rd, 2013.

10 years? Why aren't Reinyan, Sayu or Kamei celebrating it, too? They've been around the same amount of time as Idols, and both Reina and Sayu are still in MoMusu!

Source

The Digest to Tsugunaga Momoko's Momo's Play 3 ~Rest Another Day~ has been uploaded to Berryz Kobou's official youtube channel!

Now is it just me or, does the title of this DVD sound like it would work for a porno?

Source

There will be an extra concert of C-ute's Shinsei Naru Pentagram tour on February 2nd, 2013. There will also be a live viewing available across Japan.

Now I'm not the most knowledgeable when it comes to concerts, but doesn't an extra concert date mean that C-ute have basically out-sold the other dates and generated more interest? If yes, then FUCK YEAH!!!!

Source

The Digest for Tanaka Reina's Birthday FC event has been uploaded to the UFfanclub youtube.

The digest includes footage of backstage antics and rehearsals that all fans will enjoy as well as footage from the event itself. The Digest shows us that Reina had a great birthday experience with all her fans, and because this is her final FC event with her fans as a Morning Musume member, this will be a special event for everyone to enjoy watching for the first time or over again if they attended.

Boy I will miss Reina more than I thought I would o-o

Source

The digest for Mizuki Fukumura, Iikubo Haruna and Kudo Haruka's Birthday FC events have been uploaded to the UFfanclub youtube.

Haruka in Mr. Moonlight = best thing EVER! Also, why the hell was it only Riho we heard singing Happy Birthday. Please, let Masaki and Zukki sing. They're the talent. Also, MR. MOONLIGHT! Haruka and her bitches, clearly. And Honey Pie for my Honeybo!

Source

UFfanclub have uploaded the DVD digest to OG Morning Musume's M-Line Memory Vol. 10.

The video only seems to show Natsumi and Rika, which is sad but oh well... Well, we have the PonPon duo and the MasaHaruKiss duo there too to keep us entertained! Or is it just me who isn't a fan of either Abe or IshiiRika? XD

Okay, I kid, the IshiiRika x PonPon duo/MasaHaruKiss duo was a really fun part to watch.

Source

Morning Musume's 10th generation members will hold a handshake event for their Alo-Hello! Photobook on January 30th, 2013.

They are just beautiful, so of course a handshake event is in order!

Source

For the 90th Anniversary of Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall there will be a Hello! Project Promuim live.

Hearing news like this is absolutely amazing! Of course there will be other groups and singers there to celebrate the anniversary too (I think), but for Hello! Project to experience the anniversary with a long-standing concert hall is an amazing opportunity that I am sure Hello! Project are eager to be a part of. This is wonderful news!

Source

Kusumi Koharu promotes Yamazaki bread and shares a recipe with everyone!

Ahh~ I want bread and a sandwich made by Koharu now~~~

Source

A short documentary about the Hello! Project 15th Anniversary Live BRAVO! has been released through the MoBeKiMaSu channel. Please check it out!

The video is a great way to highlight the best bits of the girls as they work hard to practice for the concert and provide a wonderful performance for their fans. We also get to see performances from some of the groups including Asian Celebration (which I still don't like) and we also get to see the girls come out into the venue itself as their fans sit in the stands.

Also, some Meimi cuteness! I swear that girl is on cola or something o-O

Source

S/mileage will be releasing their next single titled Tabidachi no Haru ga Kita on March 20th, 2013!

Finally!!! I was wondering when these girls would reveal details about their next single.

Hopefully it won't bore me or piss me off. Hopefully it's cute and genki and abslutely nutty but not as stupid as Dot Bikini.

Source

Mitsui Aika will be absent from the January 19th and 20th Hello! Project concerts due to influenza.

They're dropping like FLIIIIES!!!

Source

A live video of Yasuda Kei singing Kimi he no Uta ~Always Love~ at a music Restaurant called La Donna has been uploaded via UpFrontchannl's youtube.

Her voice is so beautiful. You can't get that quality of a singer in the current Morning Musume, can you?

Not to be mean. I'm just blunt and truthful... and realistic.

Source

Morning Musume will appear on Music Japan on January 27th, 2013. Be sure to check it out~

I hope they get on more shows than just Music Japan, for the sake of promotion and all that jazz.

Source

Additional backstage scenes of Oda Sakura have been uploaded to Morning Musume's official youtube channel.

It's nice to see scenes of Sakura working hard as she prepares for her debut, and hearing her sing the song for the first time without the use of un-needed auto-tune and the instrumental is refreshing and just makes you realise how great she is as a singer and how much expression is behind her voice. She has a lot of talent and potential... let's hope she isn't overshadowed by an over-hyped and strained, childish singer.

I'm being realistic again, aren't I? And a bitch. Oh well.

Source

(From Top Left to Bottom Centre: Limited A, B, C and D + Regular Edition)

HQ covers for C-ute's single Kono Machi have been released.

The covers look extremely natural and pretty, very mature as well. Of course the CD that stands out the most is Limited C and is made up of lots of neon colours. They are really nice covers, actually. Sadly the song is so boring!

I swear, C-ute get the best covers in all of Hello! Project.

Source

Fairies' member Kiyomura Kawane has halted her activities with Fairies in order to focus on her studies. An announcement regarding this was made through the official Fairies websites.

“After today on the 17th, she will halt her activities as Fairies, and both her blog and Twitter will be put to a halt for now.” 

“We are very grateful for all of your tremendous support. Please continue watching over Fairies with your warm heart.”

This seems more like a graduation announcement to me, however, I really have no idea who this girl is...

I have no idea who anyone in Fairies is...

Also, from the comments given by fans via Tokyohive, apparently Vision Factory has removed Kawane's profile and all her pictures from the website and apps. There is obviously suspicion that she isn't returning, but that's only speculation for now.

Source

It has been announced that SUPER☆GiRLS member Kano Kaede has withdrawn from the group. Kaede wrote on her blog concerning her decision;

“Since the end of last year, I took a break because of my poor health condition. During that time, I was able to think about my 2 and a half years of activities as well as my own future. Becoming 20-years-old, I wanted to change my immaturity and the part of me that was spoiled. As for my future, I wanted to start over again from zero. After talking about those feelings with the staff and my family, I, Kano Kaede, will be withdrawing from SUPER☆GiRLS as of January 16th.”

People seem to be pretty okay with her departure from the group, with most accepting it or 'understanding why she left the gruoup. There's even comments about scandals and such, but really, I don't care.

Why?

I have no idea who she is. Also, she has a mind of her own. She can do what she wants, really.

Source

(Left to Right: Limited and Regular Edition)

The covers for Perfume's up-coming single Mirai no Museum have been released. There are two editions available to purchase.

Well, let's be honest here; I think the real-life Perfume are so much prettier, and again, me being honest; Doraemon's artwork does not appeal to me at all and actually looks... erm... ugly.

Source

On January 16th Bump.y held an event for the release of their single COSMO no Hitomi at the Yokohama Cosmo World in Naka-ku, Yokohama. The Ferris wheel at the event location had been lit up with images from the song.

How does a Ferris Wheel light up with images from the song? Also, I want to see Morning Musume or another group do a release event at a theme park!

By the way; GO BUMP.Y!!!

Source

A full, good quality radio preview for Michishige Sayumi and Fukumura Mizuki's duet song Aishuu no Romantic, which will be available as a coupling track for Help me!!, has been released for all fans to listen to.

When I first heard this song it was pretty low quality, but now that a full rip has come out in good quality, I would like to say that my opinion on the song has improved a bit! It still isn't my favourite song out of all the tracks, but it's better than I expected. I would love it is Mizuki was heard more, or didn't force her voice as much, but oh well.

It's cooler than I expected, that's for sure.

Source

A short preview for Morning Musume's coupling song Nani wa Tomo Are! has been released! This is a coupling song for the single Help me!! and is sung by Ikuta Erina, Suzuki Kanon, Masaki Sato and Kudo Haruka.

This song is something that you would really expect from S/mileage, however the sound and energy behind the instrumental and vocals really suits the quartet here and really compliments all of their vocals. It has an energetic sound, one which is fun and cute, and reminds me slightly of Tachigaaru during the instrumental break. That said, it's a good song, and will probably become one of my favourites when it is fully released.

Also; Eripon has seriously improved!

Source

A short radio preview for Watashi no Dekkai Hana has been uploaded to youtube. The song features Tanaka Reina, Iikubo Haruna and Ishida Ayumi singing this cool rap number.

OMFG A RAP!!!! YES!!!! And Daishii and Iikubo sound so freakin' perfect in this! Damn this has to be the best song on the Help me!! track list!

Reina gets all the best songs, I swear.

Source

Tokyo Girls' Style have announced that they will be holding free lives to commemorate the release of their new album titled Yakusoku which will be released on January 30th. The shows are scheduled for February 11th at Chisato Selcy in Osaka and on March 2nd at Lazona Kawasaki in Kanagawa. There will also be a handshake event after the live performances.

I'm not an avid follower of TGS, but to see that they have planned a free live event for fans is a great way to promote the girls and garner new interest in their new album. Hopefully fans will take up this opportunity and see the girls live for free! This is an even that is surely not to be missed. I mean... I wouldn't pass up the chance, even if I am a casual listener of their material...

Source

On January 19th during the second part of the live event Dokusen! Momo Kuno 60-pun vol.5 Momoiro Clover Z announced that they would be releasing their 2nd album this April. Currently the album is untitled. Leader Momota Kanako stated;

“Actually, we’ve been progressing a lot with the album’s recording. There are many different kinds of songs, such as songs that will make you think ‘what is this?!’ as well as songs that will make you think ‘wow Momoclo!‘. I think it’s going to turn out to be an album filled with many different genres. We want to make a wonderful album and deliver it to everyone, so please look forward to it.” - Momota Kanako (from Aramatheydidnt)

I'm still a little wary of MomoClo, and I don't follow them actively like others (I know some friends of mine are trying to get me into these guys though!) but it's great to hear that the girls will be releasing their 2nd album soon! 2012 was a great year for the girls (I didn't like all of their songs though...) and hopefully 2013 will be the year of the MomoClo girls!

Source

Avex have uploaded the short PV to E-girls The Never Ending Story music video! Go and check it out!

When I saw the title for the song I wondered 'Is this a cover?' and when I heard it, I was so pleased to hear that familiar sound when the lyrics come into play. It's such a nostalgic and wonderful sound, but I love that Avex have given it a modern twist with the E-girls. It sounds a bit more Christmassy and poppy, and the dance is pretty cool too!

Hopefully everyone can take a look at the short video and anticipate the full cover of the song! It sounds promising, well, it does for me at least~

Source

A short radio preview to AKB48's up-coming Sakura single, So Long! has been released. The song is a simple and sweet tune which will remind the listeners of graduations in the spring.

The song is very sweet, and as I said in the description, quite simple as well. AKB don't really seem to try anything daring with their Sakura singles which is a shame, and this song is very safe and quite vanilla. That said, I find it cute and I do like it. It's just very safe.

Source

Docomo's CM featuring AKB48 and their sakura song So Long! has been released. Please check out AKB48 as they change from cute mushrooms into Idols!

... MUSHROOMS!!! And ParuMayu <3

Source

The digest to Kusumi Koharu's recent fanclub event has been released.

Digest? More like long-winded trailer showing us the boring bits that I don't understand! If I knew what she was saying, it would be less boring...

or is it something to do with 'Morning Musume was my stepping stone to becoming a model... No, I'm serious.'

Source

Mano Erina's February 23rd graduation concert will be streamed live on Nico Nico Douga.

Good thing I have an account + it's a Friday/Saturday, so I'm all good!

... Unless I'm asleep, and then I'll miss it!

Source

The cover to Noto Arisa's solo album Hello, Little Monsters has been revealed.

It's just as tame as I expected it to be, even with a pretty cool title. Why are you TAME? You need to have something COOL!!!

I swear, I will burn all the cat ears in Japan if they keep popping up everywhere...

That said, I do think it's cute. She is one cute bug.

Source

Nakajima Saki will release a new photo book titled Naka-san on Febraury 20th, 2013. She will also release a solo DVD on February 27th. The title for her solo DVD has yet to be announced.

About damn time.

Source | Source | Source

Yajima Maimi will be starring in the stage play Taklimakan which will run from May 31st until June 11th 2013.

We need some Airi, Chissa and Maimai news now... x3

Source

The cover to THE Possible's best of album Aratamemashite, THE Possible Desu! -Nyumon Hen Best- has been revealed!

Okay, that's a really cute cover! I love the lollipops they have, though one of them has a heart which is generic and does not match the silliness of the lips or the moustache...

Source

The cover to Michishige Sayumi's up-coming photo book Mille-feuille has been released, showing off Morning Musume's leader in a bikini (yum).

Well hello there Miss Michishige, looking as delectable as ever I see...

Now seriously, UFP, you are spoiling us with both Nakky and Sayu, the two hottest, most gorgeous girls in all of H!P? Thank you!

Source

Yajima Maimi will be Sato Masaki and Kudo Haruka's next guest for their regular corner for Top Yell magazine.

Wait, they have a regular corner!? When did this HAPPEN!?

Source

Tanaka Reina graces the cover of Baseball Game magazine!

Finally got hold of some balls there have you, Reina?

Source

Morning Musume's 9th, 10th and 11th generations grace the back cover of Anican R Yanyan!! magazine!

Look at all that emotion there... Oh wait, sorry, I didn't see you there Riho with your emotionless smirk.

But in all honesty this is sooo cute, especially Sakura!!! D'aww, Sakuranbo!

Source

And so concludes this weeks batch of Idols and News! Thank you for sticking around and digesting all this information! I will be back next week with more News for everyone! Ja ne~

Chiima~

PING!!! Idolminded Recommended Reading: January 22nd, 2013

Okay! Musume Digest #34

It's D-D-D-DIGEST TIME! What has the week been like this time in the Land of the Winking Wota?

This week we have had a lot of Idol news, including Illnesses! Short PV's! A major Debut! A group is returning to their activities and so much more! Yes, this week has been filled with a great amount of Idol news, and seriously, I could not be happier. I was truly kept on my toes this week with the amazing amount of fodder coming through to feed this blog. Woohoo!

In life-related news, I am also ill! Much like my beloved Idols I am down on my luck, though I only have a cold and currently sound like a man... Well, whatever, I don't mind. It means I just sleep more and have an excuse to wake up late! Lazy cow

Anyway, enough has been said! Let's get onto the next part of the Digest!

Video of the Week

Shekimeki by Dream5

I really had no clue what PV I would use for this week's Video, but then I thought about how much I love this freakin' song and how I really need to post more Dream5 on this blog... that and I was jamming to Shekimeki at some point this week and decided to let you all know just how fantastic this song is! Seriously, you need to check it out - their energy is out of this world and it's just so wonderful!

Ah, Akira, Yuuno, Kotori <3

Picture of the Week

There is no poll of the week this time around, however I do have a beautiful gif to share with you al! Just take a look at it in all its glory!

This gif really makes me think that Eripon will, at some point, become the boyfriend character in Morning Musume, much like JunJun was the boyfriend character to Reina's Girlfriend character. To be honest, I would actually love to see some skits of Eripon as the boyfriend character for either Fukuhime, Sakura or even Zukkini!

Such an adorable couple, though~

Okay, that's all of that done! Now let's get to the important part!!!

NEWS OF THE WEEK

Hello! Project and STARdigio are collaborating for the 15th Anniversary of Hello! Project.

Hearing about a collaboration is great news, especially when the collaboration is outside of Tower Records and B.L.T. This time it seems that Hello! Project are collaborating with a radio show where the members of each group will be able to pick their favourite songs to play. It seems that fans will also be able to send in questions to the show.

This is a great opportunity for Hello! Project. Hopefully fans will be able to tune in if they are interested!

Source

JIJIPRESS have uploaded footage from Morning Musume's recent Tower Records event where the girls promoted their new single, Help me!!.

Someone please get Riho some damn auto-tune until she grasps some form of control over her voice, and for now, get me some ear plugs. Thanks.

Source

JIJIPRESS have uploaded footage from Suzuki Airi's release event for her book Perfect Book ~Airi Al~.

Let's just say that Airi is perfect, as an idol and a singer... Airi~i.

The book looks like it is full of win, by the way.

Source

It has been decided that Bakusute Sotokande Icchome will be having their major debut!

To be honest, I am genuinely surprised that BSI will be getting their major debut so soon! I was actually expecting the girls to announce their debut later on in the year, or even in 2014, but certainly not now! Regardless of how I think, it's wonderful to hear that the girls have been able to impress their managers enough and to progress so much for them to result the group with their major debut! Congrats to the Bakusute girls!

Source

A blog has been opened for 2nd generation S/mileage's radio show! Please check it out~

It's surprising to see that the S/mileage 2nd gen girls will be getting a new blog specifically made for their radio show, however this will be a great way for fans to follow the girls and their radio podcasts!

Source

From a recent Asian Beat article, it has been revealed that LinLin will be debuting as a solo artist in China this Spring. LinLin also hopes to one day sing for an anime in both Chinese and Japanese to bridge the two industries together and break down the cultural barriers.

It's been a while since we have heard from LinLin, though most will already know that she is very strong in the cosplay world right now. Of course hearing about her solo debut is amazing, and since she has had to train and work hard in a different music industry, it will be interesting to see how her debut album will turn out.

Here's to hoping a few snippets of songs will come out soon!

Source

Morning Musume's Dance video for Help me!! reached over 1.5 Million views!

Congrats to the MoMusume girls!

Source

It has been announced that Kitahara Sayaka will be releasing her first album on March 6th.

SAY WHAT? Sayaka lives? She's releasing something? Hallelujah!!! I actually thought that she had skipped out on me like Bump.y...

Damnit, these girls are like ninja's! o-O But by god, I am happy!

Source

Bakusute Sotokande Icchome now have an official Facebook page, so go check it out and like it if you are a fan!

I'm surprised that Bakusute have a facebook page now, but considering the announcement of their major debut, it seems like a great opportunity to connect with the fans through social networking. Too bad Morning Musume or the rest of Hello! Project haven't jumped onto this bandwagon... well, other than C-ute...

Source

The UFP Profiles for Tasaki Asahi and Miyazaki Yuka are now available.

I was actually wondering where these profiles were when I was stalking the UFP profiles a while ago...

Source | Source

A 30 second preview for Station♪'s up-coming single, TO・KI・DO・KI Fumikiri has been released through Station♪'s official youtube, so please check it out!

The song is very cute and quite bubbly in a way, and the video seems to have a very playful, friendly feel to it, showing the connection between the girls and their friendship as they play around and spend time together. It looks like a really cute video, and I look forward to seeing the rest of it when it is eventually released!

Source

A 30 second CM for Morning Musume's up-coming single, Help me!! has been revealed, showing a faster-paced version of the vieo.

... I doubt the real video looks as good as this (sadly), but if it does, then YAAAY, though MasaKissu looks so damn worried, as if she wants to bawl her eyes out. Reina looks normal... Fukumura is sexy, Zukki is adorable, Sayu is sexy, Ayumi is Ayumi with cool hair, Riho looks as bored as ever, Eripon is simple GORGEOUS, Haruna looks adorbs but out of place (admittedly), Haruka is so damn boyish and beautiful, and Sakura looks cute but moody...

Yurp.

Source

AKB48's 30th single will be titled So Long! and will be released on February 20th, 2013. There will be three CD+DVD limited and regular editions in Type A, K and B as well as a CD only Theatre edition. Type B will also contain the music video to AKB48's song Sugar Rush.

Track List:

1. So Long! (All Editions)
2. Waiting Room (Undergirls) (All Editions)
3. Ruby (Shinoda Team A) (Limited+Regular A)
4. Yuuhi Marie (Oshima Team K) (Limited+Regular K)
5. Sokode Inu no Unchi Fun Jau ka ne? (Umeda Team B) (Limited+Regular B)
6. TBA (Kenkyuusei) (Theatre Edition)
(Plus Instrumentals)

DVD Track List:

- So Long! PV (All Editions)
- Waiting Room PV (All Editions)
- Ruby PV (A Edition)
- 2nd AKB48 Kouhaku Taikou Uta Gassen ~Compilation~ (A Edition)
- Yuuhi Marie (K Edition)
- 2nd AKB48 Kouhaku Taikou Uta Gassen ~Akagumi Digest~ (K Edition)
- Sokode Inu no Unchi Fun Jau ka ne? (B Edition)
- 2nd AKB48 Kouhaku Taikou Uta Gassen ~Shirogumi Digest~
- Sugar Rush PV

Well, after being Sour Lemons, it seems that they're taking on Mushroom heads next! And I bet their funny antics will STILL win people over because damn, they be AKB48!

Also... PARURU! AND MAYU!!! Yesh!!!

Source

Perfume's new single, titled Mirai no Museum, will be released on February 27th, 2013. The song has been described as a pop song that expresses a magical future. The song is being used as the theme tune for both the Doraemon movie that will release in Cinema's from March 9th, as well as the up-coming anime series which wbegan airing on January 11th.

Just when I thought that Perfume were women and not Idols... and then they release 'a magical pop tune about da future'. Oooh....

I actually wonder how Nia will handle the song if it sounds like an Idol-ish pop tune that's so vanilla you can barely taste it.

She says she doesn't mind it, damn!

Source

NMB48's first album will be titled Teppen Tottande! and will release on February 27th, 2013. There will be four editions of the album available; Type N, Type M, Type B and a Theatre Edition. Type N, M and B will contain a different DVD's for each version. There will be 15-16 tracks included in the album, including NMB48's previous singles, 7 new songs and other popular songs.

I hope that the album is as cute as the girls are, squee! >3<

Source

Covers and details for 9nine's upcoming single, Colorful, has been released. The single will be out on February 6th and will also be used as the theme song for the anime movie STAR DRIVER THE MOVIE.

(In order from Top Left to Bottom Right: Limited A, Limited B, Regular Edition and Star Driver Edition)

Track List:

1. Colorful
2. Yasashii Ame
3. Shojo Traveler (Tofubeats Remix)
(Plus Instrumentals)

DVD Track List:

- “9nine One-man Live ‘Yaon no 9nine’ @ Hibiya Outdoors Music Hall / 2012.8.19″ Live Footage (DVD Limited A)
- “9nine One-man Live ‘Yaon no 9nine’ @ Hibiya Outdoors Music Hall / 2012.8.19″ Live Footage” (DVD Limited B)
- Colorful PV (Star Driver Edition)

I love 9nine, and I'm always awaiting on new informtion regarding whatever they are next releasing, so to see the covers and a track list for their new single is great news for me! I'm very surprised to see that the DVD's will include live footage, but it's great to see that 9nine will be showing their performance to fans who could not attend by adding it to their latest single release!

Source

More back stage footage for Hello! Project's 2013 Winter concert has been uploaded.

The backstage footage is a great way for all fans to see how things go on backstage for the Hello! Project concerts as well as to take a sneak peak at what is to come for the DVD when it is eventually released. With this video, we are able to get comments from various Hello Pro members as well as see the surprise of selected girls coming out into the venue itself off stage to the fans who seemed surprised to see the girls before them.

It's a great video to watch, so please take a look!

Source

C-ute's Profile images have been updated, so go and check them out!

C-utes latest profile images show the girls in their outfits for their new single, Kono Machi, which will be a cover song of Chisato Moritaka's. The dresses are very uniformed but cute, showing a more mature and sweet look to the C-utie members.

Other than Maimi's derp face in her profile image, the girls all look really good, especially Airi and her beautifully fitted blouse/top/thing. Mai's hair is so blonde now, but it's so gorgeous and reminded me instantly of Yossie for some reason! And wow, Chissa's hair, too! I was surprised to see that the two youngest of C-ute had both gone blonde... and my lord, Nakky, why you so ERO-KAWAII?

Source

It has been reported that Sato Masaki has been diagnosed with left cervical adenitis, which is a condition which often occurs in children. Masaki will continue to receive medical treatment, and will also be absent from the January 12th and 13th performances of Hello! Project's Winter concerts. It has also been reported that her future activities will be decided upon the progress of her condition.

Hearing about the illness and what it is exactly is pretty damn scary, I will admit, especially when Masaki is so young, too. When I read the part about her future activities a while before now when information was first leaked about her being ill, I was worried, but seeing it again makes me worry so much more. Sadly, all we can do is sit tight and hope that Masaki pulls through this illness and returns to her activities as soon as she can.

Yes, I'm scared... really scared DX

Source | Source

Both Katsuta Rina and Wada Ayaka have been diagnosed with Influenza. Due to this, the S/mileage release event for Samui ne on January 14th, 2013 has been postponed until further notice. Also, due to her illness, Katsuta Rina will be unable to participate in the Hello! Channel handshake event on January 16th, 2013.

Hearing about more illnesses is worrying for any fan, and whilst both Rina and Dawa will get through their influenza and return with bright smiles, as a fan I am still worrying and praying for the girls to get better... especially considering they are two of the members in S/mileage I have recently been really drawn too...

Wishing both Dawa and Rinapuu the best and hoping that they get better soon!

Get better soon, lovelies!!! ;A;

Source | Source | Source

An official website for Dracula: Te Musical has been created. The musical features Natsumi Abe as Mina.

I'm wondering when they're going to create Morning Musume: The Musical...

Source

Morning Musume have graced the cover of CDJournal once again! Please take a look at Morning Musume as they present their Help me!! costumes~

Eripon has a boyfriend face... as in, she has an over-protective, boyfriend like aura about her in this image, especially with the way she is turned and how she's looking at the camera as she stands next to her girlfriend/brother, Haruka... Yurp. Boyfriend face.

By the way, they all look good but Masaki and Sakura look super awkward.

Source

A high quality preview for Perfume's up-coming single, Mirai no Museum, has been released. The main song is being used as the theme song for both the Doraemon anime as well as the up-coming movie in March.

Well isn't this... Vanilla...

When I start showing interest in you guys, you go down the anime-cutesy-idol-no-musical-diversity route? Hi, I'm losing interest again.

Yes, the song is cute, but damn it isn't something a new fan wants to get into when you think of Perfume as a womanly, mature group with a great amount of diversity when it comes to other singers in the Jpop industry.

Makes me wonder how Nia's taking this one... Very well. Again, damn!

Source

Junior High school Idol unit Otome Shinto will be releasing their debut single Mousou★Koukan Nikki on Feruary 20th, 2013. The song is the current opening theme for the anime GJ-bu.

HOW HAVE I NOT HEARD OF YOU UNTIL NOW? You guys are ADORABLE and pretty damn good singers for kids... I usually hate kids' voices unless they know how to sing!

Damn. CUTE <3

Source

Here is the short PV for Otome Shinto's debut single, Mousou★Koukan Nikki, which will be released on February 20th this year! The PV shows the girls in the form of Junior High school reporters or ambassadors as they try to charm the people around them. There are also clips showing the girls in cute Idol costumes when they dance.

I know that this was released, like, last year and all but so what... I wanted to post it cos damnit this is cute!!!

Source

Due to a high fever, Tsugunaga Momoko will not be present at the January 12th and 13th concerts for the WANT! release event.

UPDATE: Due to influenza Momoko will not be able to attend the January 16th event for Hello! Channel volume 11.

Damn this thing is getting around the H!P crew o-O Get well soon, Momoko!!! Even I will miss your horrendously annoying antics and your good singing voice in WANT!...

Source | Source

PASSPO☆ have released the short PV for their up-coming single, Sakura Komachi. The video shows PASSPO☆ in a more mature form as they lay amongst the falling cherry blossoms, and the song shows a cooler, more mature side to the girls that we have not experienced yet.

PASSPO☆ and I have this weird On/Off fling... one minute I love them, the next I couldn't care less. Once again, I love them it seems, because Sakura Komachi is such a strong song! It represents the spring and falling cherry blossoms, but the sound itself is very cool and up-beat, something that I really did not expect... I guess I am used to gentle songs from AKB48 when it comes to their yearly Sakura singles. Well this was a great surprise, and it's great to see that PASSPO☆ are taking on a different sound once again. They're really diverse, and I love the sound of the song and the concept of the video so far! Let's eagerly await the full version, guys~

Source

Covers for PASSPO☆'s up-coming single, Sakura Komachi, have been revealed! The single will be released on February 13th 2013, and will be the groups first single release of the year. There are three editions available; First Class, Business Class and Economy Class.

Whilst the covers are pretty small, you can see clearly what they look like, and to be quite honest, these covers are very similar to previous covers that PASSPO☆ have had; not that that's bad, because honestly, I love that they keep a theme going with their covers. It's simple, but it works really well and looks great.

Source

A radio preview for Morning Musume's Help me!! coupling song, titled Happy Daisakusen, is now available for fans to listen to! The song is a cute and happy pop tune which shows off Morning Musume's strength as a group right now.

I was surprised to see a preview for the song, but I am so happy that a preview has come out because it's a great song and really makes me feel happy with how Morning Musume is right now. It's lovely to listen to, and so different from any other recent B-side I have heard from the Colourful Era. Everyone sounds amazing, and I feel like this song is here to play up to the strengths of everyone's voices and show off their strengths as singers and how much they have improved. It's a wonderful song, and very enjoyable to listen to. I love it!

Source

Another preview for Help me!! has been released, so please check it out~

WHEN WILL THIS COME OUT? IT ACTUALLY LOOKS SO MUCH MORE AWESOME NOW!!! -impatient, clearly-

Source

StylipS member Noto Arisa will be releasing a solo album this January. It will be titled Hello, Little Monsters and is scheduled to release on January 20th.

The announcement itself is a little late, especially since it's so close to the 20th, but it's great to see that Arisa is able to have her own album and perform for her fans. The title is cute, but it reminds me of something Lady GaGa would have for an album title. Well, whatever... congrats to Arisa/buggy!

Source

It has been reported that Kudo Haruka is ill, and so was not able to attend the January 14th release event for Help me!!.

Damn all these illness... e.e

Wishing you a speedy recovery, my Queen of Lollipops and Gumdrops <3

Source

The radio preview for Sayashi Riho and Oda Sakura's duet song, titled Suki Dakara Zettai ni Yurusanai, has been released. The track is present on the Regular Edition A for Morning Musume's 52nd single, Help me!!.

To be honest, I don't know what to think about this song really... I'm somewhere in the middle with it, I guess. I don't hate it, but I don't like it either... basically, I care very little for it right now. It has a cooler sound to it than I expected, and some parts remind me of Help me!!, SONGS and other sounds from Morning Musume (don't ask which ones, I'm still trying to figure it out, too). It's a weird song, I guess, but it isn't necessarily bad, either.

Also, it's very apparent that there is a rawness of vocals, and a pureness; the raw being Riho and the pure being Sakura. Their voices are so contrasting, and it works in a strange way, though it's undeniable that Riho is the weaker singer here, much like Ayumi in Daisuki 100 Manten I guess. You can really hear how poor her vocals are when you put both Sakura and Riho together, though this song showcases her voice a lot better in my opinion.

What do you guys think?

Source

AKB48's Shanghai based sister group, SNH48, have made their live debut. Their first performance was on January 12th 2013 here the girls sang the Chinese version of AKB48's popular song Heavy Rotation.

I'm happy to see that SNH48 are finally getting given activities, because outside of my interest for the Japanese based 48 groups, I have a particular interest in SNH48 because I quite like the sound of Chinese music. Their version of Heavy Rotation is also, by far, my favourite version of the song because it sounds so soft and pretty.

As I said, I am happy to see that they have debuted. Now, when will they release an original song, aye?

Source

A clip from SATOYAMA Life showing footage from the Hello! Project Viva/Bravo live has been uploaded. The footage focuses on Oda Sakura's performance debut as a member of Morning Musume, as well as looks at the new and up-coming releases from each group.

The clip is interesting to watch, and for Oda fans it will be great to watch because there is a lot of focus on 11th gen's sole member! Please be sure to check it out, and also, enjoy~

Source

Footage from GiRLPOP TV has been released highlighting Oda Sakura's single debut in Morning Musume, with footage showing how the PV has been made and some interview footage with a few members of the group.

Another interesting piece of footage that fans will be able to enjoy, especially fans of Oda Sakura. It's great to see that 11th gen's sole member is getting a positive push and quite a bit of media attention. Hopefully all fans will be able to check out the video and enjoy!

Source

Suzuki Airi will be on the back cover of BIG ONE GIRLS magazine which will be out on February 8th, 2013.

Well, isn't that a, er... wonderful title for a magazine?

It makes me wonder what genre of magazine it is, actually...

Source

On January 13th 2013, it was announced that 9-member Idol unit Cheeky Parade will hold their first group-only live performance at the Nippon Seinenkan on October 14th 2013.

Whilst I don't actively follow Cheeky Parade, it's great to hear that the group have secured a date and venue for their group-only live. Hopefully all their fans within the area will be able to attend and enjoy a cheeky performance from this group!

Source

On January 14th it was announced that Idol group Shiritsu Ebisu Chuugaku, also known as Ebichu, will be providing the ending theme for the new Pokemon series Pocket Monsters Best Wishes Season 2. The theme song will be titled Sakura-Go-Round and will start airing with the anime on January 17th, 2013.

It's great that Ebichu are able to sing the ending theme for such a widely loved anime series like Pokemon! I love Pokemon myself and most of the theme tunes, so it will be great to her what Ebichu will be singing for the anime!

Source

AKB48's Kashiwagi Yuki was able to meet and interview her Idol Ishikawa Rika who is an ex-Morning Musume member from the 4th generation. This talk will be included as a bonus track in Kashiwagi's up-coming solo debut single, Shortcake, and will be available on the Theatre edition of the single.

Whilst I am not a fan of either of these girls (I wonder how many of you want to pelt me with raw eggs right now...) I think that it's amazing that Kashiwagi Yuki was able to meet one of her Idols. It's known by many fans that Kashiwagi Yuki is a H!P fan, so it's wonderful to hear news that she was able to meet with IshiiRika and talk to her. Hopefully many fans will be able to check out the interview when the single comes out and support both KashiYuki and IshiiRika!

Source | Source

Top Left to Bottom: Limited A, Regular A, Limited B, Regular B, Limited C, Regular C and Theatre Edition

The covers and track list to Kashiwagi Yuki's solo debut have been released. The single titled Shortcake will be released on February 6th and will have seven different editions to choose from.

Track List:

1. Shortcake (All Editions)

2. Soredemo Nakanai (All Editions)

3. Sakura no Ki ni Narou Acoustic Ver. feat. Oshio Kotaro (Type A versions only)

4. Mirai-bashi (Type B versions only)

5. Class-kai no Ato de (Type C versions only)

6. Jealousy Punch (Theatre Edition only)

(+ Instrumentals)

DVD Track List:

1. “Shortcake” Music Video (Type A+B+C Editions)

2. Kashiwagi Yuki no Kagoshima Kuru!? (Type A only)

3. Yukirin no Kagoshima Gurmet Report (Type B+C only)

4. Kashiwagi Yuki×Ishikawa Rika (Theatre Edition only)

The covers are extremely simple, but very pretty and well executed in my opinion, and somehow remind me of valentines day... the name also sounds quite Valentiney, doesn't it?

Is Valentiney even a word? Nope

Source

On January 14th, model and eccentric Idol Kyary Pamyu Pamyu made a guest appearance at the coming of age day event Shibuya-ku Seijin wo Iwau Kai at Shibuya Kokaido. For the event Kyary wore a flashy and eccentric furisode and expressed her feelings towards the colourful garment;

"I aimed to be the most flashy new adult in Japan,"

“It’s very special. I was impressed when I saw it finished.” - Kyary Pamyu Pamyu (Tokyohive)

Kyary will be turning 20 years old on the 29th of January.

I'm not surprised that Kyrary would wear a bright and extravagant furisode with unicorns. It's amazing xD

Source

Idol group Sea☆A have announced that they will be releasing their first album this year on March 27th!

Whilst this is the only update concerning the release of the album, it's great to hear that Sea☆A will be releasing it! I love Sea☆A and they really deserve to release their very own album for all of their fans to enjoy!

Please keep your eyes open for any more updates, and remember to reserve a copy if you are a fan!

Source

It has been announced that Sharam Q will restart their activities for their 25th Anniversary this August with a live tour as well as a re-recording of their hit single, Single Bed which will be released this April.

All Hail Tsunku... and Makoto...

And the other two who I have no idea about...

Source

Thrugh her blog, Mano Erina has revealedthe covers and track list for her final Hello! Project album album to her fans.

Track List:

1. NEXT MY SELF
2. Zenbu Daisuki
3. Tasogare Kousaten
4. Love&Peace = Paradise
5. Kono Mune no Tokimeki wo
6. Onegai Dakara
7. Genkimono de Ikou!
8. Hajimete no Keiken
9. Minna, arigatou
10. Otome no Inori
11. Seishun no Serenade
12. Song for the DATE
13. Haru no Arashi
14. Sekai wa Summer Party
15. Dokidoki Baby
16. My Days for You
17. Nerima Calling! (bo^nasuto rakku)

Ah, this is it... the final album, Mano Erina's Best of... Uwa, it's going so fast! Mano, please, don't leave us ;___________________;

Source

The LQ covers for C-ute's up-coming single, Kono Machi, have been released. There will be fiver versions of the single available, from Limited A-D as well as a Regular edition.

It's great to see the covers are out for all fans to see, and whilst they are pretty small, these previews can give us all a good idea of what to expect when the HQ covers coe out. It seems like the theme for the covers is very simple and quite natural, with the only exception being the Liited C's colourful cover.

If you love C-ute's Kono Machi, then please reserve a copy!

Source

A website dedicated to the release of Morning Musume's 52nd single Help me!! has been set up. Please go and check it out!

It seems that Hello! Project are continuing to release websites dedicated to Morning Musume's releases since One Two Three was released last year, and personally I think that continuing this form of promotion is great! It's new for H!P, but it also gives fans somewhere to look when they want to find out more about the single or the members.

Hopefully everyone can check out the website!

Source

The Morning Musume Colourful Character Live 2012 photo book will be released on February 12th 2013.

I was unaware that a photo book for the concert would be released, however it's great to know that Sayumi's first concert as a leader will be recorded in photographs for all fans to keep. Hopefully those who are interested can reserve a copy.

Source

And that is all we have time for today! Another eventful week has been done, an hopefully this digest will help you catch up on the weekly news that has just passed! Until next time guys! Ja ne~

Chiima~

PING!!! Idolminded Recommended Reading: January 15th, 2013