℃－ｕｔｅ's Suzuki Airi Sprinting until their breakup in June next year (Kobe Shinbun 2nd Dec 2016)

℃－ｕｔｅ's Suzuki Airi
'My love towards singing will not waver'

While news of SMAP's dissolution was flying around this summer, fans were also shocked by news of another breakup. This breakup was of the talented 5-person team '℃-ute', who are said to be 'The queens of the idol world'. The ace Suzuki Airi (22) stated, 'Being an idol is a wonderful occupation. It's my pride.' They'll be dashing on until they reach the finish line, in June next year.

℃-ute made their major debut in February 2007 as part of the idol collective 'Hello! Project'. Besides Suzuki, the group has other members such as Okai Chisato (22), who is flourishing on the variety programme scene.

One of the songs from their latest triple A-side single is 'Mugen Climax'. The music video is well regarded, and we can see the 5 members going to the utmost limits with their skill at singing and dancing. Eight names are hidden in the lyrics, comprising the present as well as graduated members. Suzuki was joyful, 'That sort of trick fits with the world of the song'.

Suzuki built up her popularity with a singing ability that is preeminent among idols. When asked about balancing university life and idol activities, she declared that she held 'Multiple occupations'. With a laugh that revealed her characteristic snaggletooth, 'I'm able to try out all sorts of things, like singing and modelling, it suits my curious self. No other job lets me feel such support from those around me'.

Going on with that pace, on the 20th of August, ℃-ute announced their breakup. With all the members having passed the age of twenty, they took the opportunity to contemplate their individual futures, and arrived at that decision. 'There were members who wanted to do things that they couldn't do in our group as it stands, so they'd like to work hard on that next'. As for her own thoughts, 'I like work that can give people smiles. In whatever form, whatever media I may appear in, I ultimately would like to keep on singing'.

Until their Saitama Super Arena breakup concert in June next year, they intend to vigorously pile on the concerts so that they'll be able to share a 'Chou Wonderful' time with their fans 'who are our allies, no matter what'.

Source: Kobe Shinbun

News reports from the opening day of the 2017 Winter Hello! Cons

Each group's aspirations for the year

Yamagishi Riko (Tsubaki Factory)
Up to now, Tsubaki Factory have been told that we have this image of being reserved and quiet, but with our major debut on the 22nd of February this year, we'd like to do our best to make this year the year where Tsubaki Factory takes the lead role.

Hirose Ayaka (Kobushi Factory)
On this day, the 2nd of January, we, Kobushi Factory, celebrate the 2nd year anniversary of our formation. We'll be starring in the stage-play 'JK Ninja Girls' that will be starting in February this year, which will also be made into a movie. It feels like we'll be getting increasingly more opportunities for acting work. So we'd like to take up acting jobs and further improve Kobushi Factory's ability to express ourselves. As a group, we would like to work hard towards the goal of having hall concerts by ourselves. So we ask for your kindness in this year as well.

Tsugunaga Momoko (Country Girls)
In November last year, I announced that I would be graduating from Hello! Project and Country Girls on the 30th of June this year. I've been part of the Hello! Project concerts since the summer of 2002, and this is my 30th. I've been doing this for a very long time, so I really feel sad when I think about the fact that it'll be my last Hello! Project concert. But as a member of Country Girls, we'll be releasing our double A side single 'Good Boy Bad Girl / Peanut Butter Jelly Love'. It'll be my last single, so I'm pretty pumped up. I'd like to do my best so that the kouhai will warmly accept it, so I ask for your kindness in this year as well.

Miyazaki Yuka (Juice=Juice)
In 2016, we reached a total of 225 concerts throughout the country. We'd like to do our best to hold even more concerts, not just in Japan, but overseas as well. The five of us in Juice=Juice would like to go on doing our best. We ask for your kindness in this year as well.

Fukumura Mizuki (Morning Musume。’17)

In 2016, as Morning Musume。’16, we got to perform in Houston in America as well as Korea and Taiwan. We got to collaborate with a lot of other idols. It was a year that let us broaden our horizons. So hopefully we'll get to do a lot more performances overseas in 2017. And the new members have joined us, so we'd like to do our best to go on and properly create a new Morning Musume。’17. We ask for your kindness in this year as well.

Wada Ayaka (ANGERME)
It's difficult to say this in front of the leader of Morning Musume。, but ANGERME's goal is to become the number one in Hello! Project. It's a big dream, but we'd like to work hard at it. In 2016, ANGERME saw a series of graduations and new entries. But now, we'll be doing our best in our new form, so we'd be happy if you would support us in 2017 as well. We ask for your kindness.

Fukuda Kanon's Path to being the greatest idol Vol 3 (UTB April-June 2011)

In the third part of this serialisation, it's a showdown of luck! The universe's greatest idol should also possess the greatest luck in the universe, shouldn't she!?

And as a special guest, we herald the appearance of someone who possesses good luck and competency = Suzuki Airi-senpai, who adorns [this issue's] UTB cover by herself!

Mission: Showdown of luck

In order to become the greatest idol in the universe, luck is also required! And with that, this month, we're trying out a battle of luck!! But before that, we are graced by the presence of a special guest. Adorning this issue's cover, it's the star Suzuki Airi-senpai~.

Airi: 'I've got good luck, and I'm also good when it comes to a real challenge! I'm stronger than my (pro-golfer) father!!'

【Article directed to fanatics】 Morning Musume ・ Fukumura Mizuki's abnormal 「Momochi love」

Fukumura Mizuki who says she extremely likes Momochi （Left）

　We found out that 「Morning Musume。’１５」's new leader、 Fukumura Mizuki-san （１８） is a huge fan of 「Momochi」 Tsugunaga Momoko （２３）。 In the time we had in between the withnews interview where we would be asking about Morning Musume。's future、 she earnestly talked about her “Momochi love”。 Since the contents are for enthusiasts、 we've compiled it for those who would enjoy it。

　Fukumura Mizuki-san has been a Momochi fan from even before she entered 「Hello！ Project」。 We talked about Momochi、 who has assumed the role of Playing Manager for 「Country Girls」 after Ｂｅｒｒｙｚ Kobo entered their indefinite hiatus。

「Momochi」 Tsugunaga Momoko-san。 With 「Ｂｅｒｒｙｚ Kobo」 having entered their indefinite hiatus、 she serves as the Playing Manager of 「Country Girls」

Likes her too much 「I can't even exchange contact addresses・・・」

　「 I'm super jealous that （the members of Country Girls and Momochi） get to exchange e-mail addresses。 I can't exchange addresses with her。 I just can't ask that」

Fukumura Mizuki 

「While drawing out the personalities of the members、 the model of taking the lead」

　「We occasionally get to work together、 and it feels amazing、 but I have no idea what to do to get to that point。 But、 I don't want to lose to Tsugunaga-san's group。 We were taught a lot from Michishige-san、 and I think that there are many people who would envy us because of that」

Country Girls ・ Momochi is top-left

　「I think that H!P has arrived on the “cool path”。 Amidst that、 the ones who can appeal completely with cuteness would be Country Girls。 With Tsugunaga-san as Playing Manager、 I think that they're a really really powerful group。 I envy the members of Country who are learning under Tsugunaga-san。 At ＭＣs、 she brings up the personalities of the members、 and Tsugunaga-san leading them along is really wonderful。 I'd like to apprentice under her from a lot more close-by」

Obsession with the “Momochi Musubi”

　「Seeing her as a fan、 Tsugunaga-san is completely different to how she was when she entered H!P。 She changed from cute to stylish。 When I think about how Tsugunaga-san is normally like、 the answer immediately springs to mind。 When she joined Country、 I think that it was huge that she stopped with the “Momochi Musubi （Twintail-based hairdo）”。 I think that if Tsugunaga-san had the Momochi Musubi、 everyone would see nothing but that。 For the sake of Country、 Tsugunaga-san stopped with the Momochi Musubi。 For Country、 I think that while she lets those around her shine、 she's found a new style to for her to stand out」

Ｂｅｒｒｙｚ Kobo announcing their indefinite hiatus。 Momochi looking out with the 「Momochi Musubi」

　「But it's sad to be unable to see the Momochi Musubi。 The Momochi Musubi、 they changed from day to day。 On days when she's not in good condition, she'd bind them with a “small rubber band”、 and the cut hair would stick out。 It's sad to not be able to see that any more・・・。 And since she isn't using it any more、 I'd be happy to take them」

Source: withnews

The name of H!P ８ person new unit is 「Kobushi Factory」 Elegance and strength

On the ２５th, the name of the 8 person new unit under female idol collective 「Hello！ Project」 has been decided as 「Kobushi Factory」。 The formation of the new unit was announced at the New Year's performance that was held on the ２nd of January at Nakano Sunplaza in Tokyo。

　For the origin of the unit's name、 there is the 「elegance」 of the magnolia kobushi、 the flower of Japanese origin which blooms with an abundance of white flowers、 informing you of the advent of spring、 while at the same time the name has the meaning of the desire for the group to possess a 「strength」 that is symbolised by a 「clenched fist (nigirikobushi)」、 those are the thoughts behind it。 「Friendship」「Trust」「Welcome」 in the language of flowers、 by mutually deepening their 「friendship」 and having 「trust」、 they aim to be a group who are 「welcoming」。

　Also、 the 「Factory」 includes the meaning of inheriting the soul of 「Ｂｅｒｒｙｚ Kobo (Berryz Factory)」 that will go on hiatus。

　The name selection included Shimizu Saki （２３） who will assume the role of 「Hello！ Project Advisor」 after the hiatus of 「Ｂｅｒｒｙｚ Kobo」。

　「Kobushi Factory」 is composed of 8 people、 Fujii Rio （１５） Hirose Ayaka （１５） Nomura Minami （１５） Ogawa Rena （１４） Hamaura Ayano （１４） Taguchi Natsumi （１４） Wada Sakurako （１３）Inoue Rei （１３）。 With the exception of Fujii who is in her １st year of senior high, all of them are in middle school。  At９ p.m. today on the broadcast of the Hello！ Project Official  ＷＥＢ video programme 「HaroSute」, a video of the moment of the name announcement will be aired。

　From the ２６th of March at Ikebukuro's 「ＢＩＧ　ＴＲＥＥ　ＴＨＥＡＴＥＲ」 in Tokyo,  the curtains will be raised for 「Kobushi Factory」's musical 「Ｗｅｅｋ　Ｅｎｄ　Ｓｕｒｖｉｖｏｒ」 、 and there will be advance sales of their first ＤＶＤ single 「Nen ni ha Nen／ Survivor」 limited only to the venue。

[ 25th February 2015 6:00 p.m. ]

Source: Sponichi Annex

“Foster parent” cheoreographer Natsu Mayumi talks about Goto Maki's ability 「No.1 in MoMusu。、AKB」

Natsu Mayumi talking about
her thoughts on Goto Maki

Recently, dance producer Natsu Mayumi-shi released her first business book, 'What does an ace do?' (Sunmark Publishing). In the case of Morning Musume. and AKB48, Natsu-shi  played a part of their formation, and was a familiar face to the girls, their 'foster parent'. When asked, amongst the girls she had taken care of so far, which idol was number one in talent, she clearly explained, 'That would be Goto Maki (clearly). If you're talking within Morning Musume. and AKB48, she was number one in the sense of overwhelming talent'.

Leadership: Shimizu Saki

{So some people be saying that Cap'n ain't enough of a leader for Hello! Pro. While I don't be disagreeing with Maimi, the generally proposed alternative, I feel that they be disrespecting the Cap'n, saying that she ain't much of a leader. I ain't the type of Jigglypuff to be engaging in debate,but I'd like if ya got a taste of the trials 'n tribulations of this girl stuck at the head of 7 girls, with their very scattered personalities.}

『CD&DL Data (2014 March - April edition)』

Leadership: The knowledge of a Leader
This month: Shimizu Saki from Berryz Kobo

In this serialisation, we seek knowledge from the leaders of female idol groups. In this second of this series, we present Shimizu Saki, who acts as the 'Captain' of Berryz Kobo, who are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their début in March.

MoMusu。Complaints of 「We have no work」 The difference between Michishige and the other members…

Announced her graduation
Morning Musume。＇１４'s Michishige Sayumi

Iikubo Haruna (19), Ikuta Erina (16), and Michishige Sayumi (24) from Morning Musume＇１４ appeared on MBS Radio 'Youngtown Doyoubi' hosted by personality Akashiya Sanma (58) on the 31st. Iikubo and Ikuta complained that, compared to leader Michishige, they had no work.

The two of them started of by mentioning to Sanma 'Michishige-san has work, but...', making an appeal for their work-free schedules, 'For us, these 4 days, we haven't had anything besides voice training', 'Looking at our schedule, we've got many free days'. They revealed that they were perplexed by 'In a year, we've got so many resting days'.

Sanma tried to cheer them up by saying 'It's hard-earned, so isn't it great, you could go on (overseas) trips'.

In addition, the eldest Michishige Sayumi will be graduating from MoMusu。 in the autumn tour.

Today's broadcast was recorded in the capital in the 30th. Sanma touched upon the topic of the AKB48 handshake event assault on the 25th, where Michishige and the rest discussed, 'They got through despite all the precautions', 'It's grave, due to a lone person (the perpetrator)'.

Source

Note: For reference, here's a clip of that radio show:


Relevant section starts about 39:11

MechaIke great rampage！ 「The 2nd Momochi」 MoMusu。 Ikuta Erina、 about to make a break in the variety circuit

On the May 17th broadcast of  『Mecha×2 Iketeru!』（Fuji TV）、  Morning Musume。'14 made a guest appearance、and member Ikuta Erina （16） was greatly featured。

A member's mother cries out bitterly……A 15-year old underground idol withdraws with a 「Large amount of money」cited as areason, creating a stir

From Otawara Yuka's official blog

The reasons behind the withdrawal of Otawara Yuka (15) from being a member of high school idol rap unit, Rhymeberry, has sparked discussion among idol fans.

In 2011, Rhymeberry originally started off as any other idol group with 4 members in junior high. 

In 2012, they made their CD début with their 1st single 'Hey! Brother' (Aries Entertainment), singing about 'their awakening feelings of love towards their brothers'. In 2013, they released their single 'R.O.D. / Sekaijuu ni I Love You' through T-Palette Records, an idol-centric label managed by Tower Records. They made an appearance at Japan's biggest Idol Fest 'Tokyo Idol Festival 2013'. Their rising popularity culminated with a one-man live in August of last year, and then they ceased activities for a while.

Yet, on Rhymeberry's official blog post on the 11th of [April 2014], they announced that they had separated with their previous office T-Palette Records and that they were starting with a new company. At the same time, it was announced that member Yuka was withdrawing, and it was clear that their activities thereafter would involve 3 people.

On Yuka's blog on the same day, her mother submitted a message to the fans. The reason for withdrawing was explained clearly: 'We discussed the resumption of Rhymeberry's activities, but a large amount of money would be involved for Rhymeberry to continue. We understand that it is appropriate, but we have decided to abandon continuing with Rhymeberry due to the financial circumstances of our family.' It created a ripple among idol fans, bringing up questions such as 'Why do idols have to pay money?', 'It might be company policy, but it's depressing', 'So it means that for the remaining members, they clearly had to pay 'a large amount of money' for their activities...'

'It is unknown why the mother would make a clear statement under the pretence of 'a large amount of money'. But this blog post has exposed the financial problems of underground idols, which has even been noticed slightly by idol fans. I don't understand the circumstances for Rhymeberry, but in the world of underground idols, lesson fees and company registration fees, publicity photo costs, clothing costs, are often laid on the family of the members. Naturally, there are many members who gave up due to the accumulated financial burden. On the other hand, from the perspective of the company, it isn't feasible to only do idol management, so there are many companies that are involved in real estate and marketing as well. So, it isn't rare for companies to depend on management trust fees and publicity photo costs from the members.' (A person connected to an entertainment company)

Ever since AKB48 made their break, countless numbers of female idol groups have been formed. In order to bask in the spotlight, should it be the case that 'a large amount of money' would be needed?

Source: NicoVideo

S/mileage Wada Ayaka「It would be good if the next leader of Hello! Pro after Michishige-san would be Shimizu Saki-san」

For the release of 『Mystery Night!/ Eighteen Emotion』、 S/mileage held a release event。

After its release, the sexy, danceable new songs immediately became the topic of conversation. This time, at the media scrum, Fukuda Kanon recounted the negatively unpleasant, 'I have nothing to say about those clothes,' mentioned by her father when he saw the extremely daring costumes. Then, with Nakanishi Kana commenting on the 75 days left to their Nippon Budokan performance, 'Since there's 75 days¹ I think I might cry at the Budokan,'  her sudden pun invited laughter.
¹ 'Nako-', which I've translated as 'cry' is an alternative reading for '75'



Also, when asked about the fan club priority tickets and on being told by adults that 'Just a mere half of them have been sold', leader Wada Ayaka boldly said 'I want to be able to triumph over those adults'. The graduation of Morning Musume. '14's Michishige Sayumi drew a sad response, and when Wada Ayaka and Fukuda Kanon were asked if they had any inclination to aim for the seat of Hello! Pro leader after Michishige Sayumi's graduation, Fukuda Kanon said 'It's too heavy a burden! Personally, I endorse Berryz Kobo's Shimizu-san! I'd even be willing to collect signatures for it!' Wada Ayaka also announced, 'I'm in agreement!'

Source: Dwango

℃―ｕｔｅ Suzuki Airi At ２０ 「I'm not mindful about being in love any time soon」

In the capital, Suzuki Airi carries out a
photo book release commemoration event

On the 24th, Suzuki Airi (20) from popular idol group ℃-ute held a release commemoration event for her photo book 「共鳴―ＫＹＯＭＥＩ―」 (Wani Books) in the capital.
　

　Its release date was on the 12th, her 20th birthday. 'We were on-location in Singapore, and the chicken rice was delicious. I ate lots. I was thinking that I should hold back since it'd make my tummy stick out in the photo book, but I had my fill as it's a place that I will rarely be able to get to. It was an exciting, enjoyable photo shoot,' Suzuki related with a smile.

Tsunku♂-producer's theory of work「Forge your powers of observation on your commute to work」

　Beginning with Morning Musume。’14 [sic]、Tsunku♂-shi produces Hello！ Project's line up of idols。 We were told about his vision hereafter inside Shuukan SPA！'s February 11・18 combined edition 「Hello! Pro's counter-attack」。 However、 the truly amazing thing about him was his original theory of work。 We ask about his theory of work, whose usefulness is not just limited to the world of entertainment, but to all working adults。

Momochi denies rumours of 'Washing herself at a river'

Tsugunaga Momoko
(Photo from 12 Feb 2014)

On TBS System's 'Uwasa ha Gohou ka Shinjitsu ka Gase Dema Collection' (Are the rumours misinformation or truth? Collection of Lies and False rumours) on the 17th, Berryz Kobo's 'Momochi' Tsugunaga Momoko (22) revealed that she's prohibited from going to swimming pools, hot springs, or public baths by the office she's attached to,
　
We heard from the fans that they suspected that Tsugunaga was from an 'extremely poor home', and she denied the rumour that had been whispered by those about the net that 'When her bath tub was broken, she washed herself at a nearby river'. She explained that first of all, there wasn't a river near her home, moreover she brought up that 'The company is strict, and that going to swimming pools, onsen, public baths in our private time, all of those places are prohibited'. This rule even surprised the other entertainers. It seemed that even going for onsen trips was not allowed.

Actor Sakagami Shinobu automatically asked 'Why? Is it not ok for you to be seen nude?', and she affirmed it with a 'That is so'. She continued with 'If everyone were to see Momochi, they'd get nosebleeds, so it'd be dangerous in all sorts of ways,' inducing laughter.

Souce: Nikkan Spa

Morning Musume。 '14 interview with Oricon Style for 'Toki wo Koe Sora wo Koe / Password is 0'

Currently making another breakthrough! What's event made them feel as if their faces and names were remembered？

Fukumura Mizuki

―― Firstly, we'd like to hear about the first of your two songs from the double A single 「Toki wo Koe Sora wo Koe」 (Crossing time, crossing space)！ What sort of song is it？
【Ikuta Erina】　With such a grand title (laughs), I think that this song that is able to evoke a response in everyone. It's packed with tons of lyrics such as 'On days when you're lonely and can't sleep, it's okay to cry,' impressive lyrics that can open up your mind. 

【Ishida Ayumi】 Normally, when we tell the audience that we'll be performing our latest song, all the fans would obstinately try to dance along together with us. But when it comes to this song, all of them listen to it carefully, even though they've already seen us perform it at concerts [and thus would have been able to follow along with the dance]. 

【Fukumura Mizuki】　That hasn't happened before. I think that this song really does cross time. As Eripon (Ikuta) mentioned, there are plenty of lyrics that can resonate with the listener. At the same time, the lyrics seem to talk about the future. The music video (MV) is like that as well, and this amazing 'sense of space' comes out during the concerts! Even the dance looks like we're moving in water, bringing to mind a sense of us floating in zero gravity。

Hello! Project Idol ℃-ute does sexy pole dance Disgruntled voices from the wota 'Too vulgar' 'Is this a strip show'

'Pole dancing', a sexy dance that makes use of a long and thin pole. Recently it's one of the things enjoyed by the arts, but even now it's still firmly rooted in the image of 'strip bar dancing'.

Hello! Project (H!P) idol group '℃-ute' challenged themselves to do pole dancing, however it led to the present circumstances where disgruntled voices are being raised by the fans. It appears that the overtly sexy performance did not jive well with the fans.

Coiling around a pole, spreading their legs wide

A scene from the pole dance
(From YouTube programme 'Hello! Sta')

℃-ute's 2014 spring concert tour 「℃-ute no Honne」 (℃-ute's true intentions) raised its curtains on the 5th of April 2014, at Gotanda U-port Hall （Tokyo・ Shinagawa Ward）. A digest of the opening day performance was unveiled to the public through H!P's original YouTube programme 「Hello！Sta」。

For the song 'Crazy Kanzen na Otona', Nakajima Saki-san (20) and Hagiwara Mai-san (18) did a pole dance, while the remaining members Yajima Maimi-san (22), Suzuki Airi-san (19), and Okai Chisato-san (19) used the stairway on stage to perform.

With gleaming black costumes with a high degree of exposure, the tops bared their navels while the bottom part was considerably short. It was a provocative dance with Nakajima-san and Hagiwara-san coiling themselves around a pole, spreading their legs wide. The other 3 had caps that resembled police hats, and displayed captivating moves with their hips and legs while sitting on the stairway.

RihoRiho's Kouhaku vow

{With all this furore about Oda Sakura thinking about dyeing her hair and using an app to try mess around with the hair colour of not just herself but RihoRiho as well,  I thought I'd bring up this report from earlier this year}

Sayashi Riho   Unique vow   A bob cut for MoMusu. '14's Kouhaku appearance!?

Morning Musume.'14's Sayashi Riho (15) took a unique vow.
Setting forth on this year's great goal of making an appearance at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen on the very last day of the year, 'If we're able to make an appearance, for the sake of welcoming the new year with a fresh feeling, I would like to lop off my hair,' she declared.

Source
Related matome 1 | 2 | 3

As a bonus, here's a rendition (not mine) of how RihoRiho would look like with a bob cut:



And a short cut:

Ai-chan gives a quick update on Tsunku♂

Takahashi Ai made an appearance on the 'Electrolux Best Cleanest Award' ceremony, where she gave a quick update on how Tsunku♂ seemed to be doing.

She enlightened us on the present conditions of producer Tsunku♂（４５）, in the midst of battling the early stages of laryngeal cancer. 

 Takahashi, who underwent an operation on both sides of her vocal nodules in May of last year, 'Since I had also undergone a throat operation, we communicated on all sorts of things. It seems that he still pops up at the company (office), and while his treatment is still ongoing, he seems to be in good health,' she reported.

 According to persons concerned, Tsunku♂ is unable to utter any words, but continues his producer work communicating through writing.

Having translated it, I dunno, doesn't seem like she's mentioning too much - her second sentence smacks of hearsay rather than something she'd seen with her own two eyes.

And as always, the reliability of 'persons concerned' is always suspect.

But since I hate to discard the efforts of translation, here you have it.

Source

Tsunku♂'s message to Berryz Kobo on their 10th anniversary

{Despite the sad news from Tsunku♂, he proves that his ability to troll is still as solid as ever in this message for Berryz Kobo's 10th year anniversary. 
The message itself was narrated by Sawayaka Goro, in the concert they held on the day of their 10th anniversary. 
The Oricon video below has excerpts of that speech, but the only news source I found that claimed to have the full text of his message is this Dwango one. Note that the Oricon video has been cut in such a way that the later part of the speech is actually mentioned earlier.
Also, if you continue with the video, isn't Succhaka Mecchaka awesome?}



It's the 3rd of March.
Today marks a whole 10 years, entering into your 11th year.
Congratulations on your 10th anniversary.
Well of course, Morning Musume is about 16 or 17, and that kind of history is amazing.
But, they have had member changes.
Of course, although the number of people in Berryz Kobo has decreased, there were no new members who joined, so fundamentally it's all been done by the same members, and I think that's something really amazing.
With that, let me tell you something just as amazing!
From now on, since these members have been doing everything...
I think that gradually...
From here on...
For Berryz Kobo, new member applications...
Will not be done, [Momo: Oh Tsunku♂-san, stop it with the Osakan jokes, there's no need for that kind of thing]
So I think I'd like the members to be filled with spirit and take a new step.
To be honest, for a group of girls in the puberty ~ lovestruck phase continued doing activities collectively as a group for 10 years, I think you also did it giving a vibe of, "Let's have a fight!"
I've heard this comment countless times so far, that it's generally thought that you can work for at most 4 years as an 'idol.'
To exceed that is truly amazing.
In my capacity as a producer it's normal to give all sorts of instructions, and on that point, I really respect you guys.
I'm sure that all the fans understand that as well.
Therefore despite it being a weekday today, such a great number of people ... (though I won't ask how you skipped work...) have gathered here.
Aiming for an Oricon 1st this year, let's make this wonderful Berryz Kobo-like seed ripen stylishly!
Well then, good luck.

Source

[Live report] Berryz Kobo's first Nippon Budokan performance. Yappari Anata Nashi de ha Ikite Yukenai {page 3}

{Continuation of the Barks report of Budokan. If you missed it, Part 1 and Part 2.}

With Miyabi-chan's solo corner coming to an end, once again there was a medley, with the live performance accelerating towards the final stage. And then the standard song at any Berryz Kobo live, "Special Generation".
"More! More!" They demanded for cheers from atop the stage, and the audience gave out great cheers in response. The venue came together as one, as the temperature soared to a high in a single stroke. Without calming down, the momentum continued with "Icchome Rock," particularly with great cheers at the hook. It was just like the support songs that soccer players receive when standing on the pitch in the National Stadium.
And as the last performance for this session, they did their cover of "ROW MAH SING" by the Thai-nationality singer Thongchai "Bird" McIntyre, "cha cha SING." Dropping from a high voltage stage to the <cha cha la cha cha cha la la cha cha la cha cha~>, Budokan was suddenly switched to an ethnic dance hall where everyone was fired up.

With lights swaying in the darkness and voices going "Berryz Ikube!", Berryz Kobo were once again called to the stage (By the way, this call is one of the pleasures that can be experienced at Berryz Kobo's live performances, but we are omitting it as the story is getting long). The encore started with "Nanchuu Koi wo Yatteru YOU KNOW?" with tears already flowing from Sugaya Risako's eyes, her voice quivering. And then, speeches from each and every one of them.

The audience seating was like the void of space, twinkling with glow sticks.
"So many people are gathered here, getting to do my favourite songs and dances in front of a lot of people, I think it really is bliss. Even though Budokan was Berryz Kobo's dream, it's not our goal but it's a checkpoint, I think I'd like to work harder from now on," said Tokunaga Chinami.

From Sudo Maasa, "Getting to do this live at Nippon Budokan was really amazing." While it didn't matter whether the venue was large or small, "Because all of you are gathered here like this, I wondered: haven't we created a wonderful space? Because the thing we want to see most in the future is everyone's smile, anyway, I think that from now on it would be great to create this sort of wonderful space." With that, she bowed.

"Today, in order to come to see Berryz Kobo, here, under this large onion, no, under this big yellow peach, you guys have come, thank you very very much!" Speaking steadily as ever, Momochi. Moreover, concerning the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, "Berryz Kobo wants to capture the gold medal of the idol world," a declaration that roused up the venue (By the way, Berryz Kobo, at present, I'm of the impression that they're the "bronze medal" after two nights of thinking).

Compared to any other illumination around the country, Kumai Yurina, who said that the view from the stage of Nippon Budokan on the 29th of November was the most beautiful, "I don't know if this is sweat or it it's tears," while being overcome with emotion, "Actually, for me, being supported by so many people around me, I think it's amazing." She conveyed her feelings of gratitude.

And Natsuyaki Miyabi, "Though I was super nervous, it ended in the blink of an eye, and though I think that it ended quickly, everyone gathered here, and Berryz Kobo, I think we've all managed to make an awesome memory." she commented. And, "You know, today, at Budokan......," her right hand forming a pistol next to her face. Moreover, bringing to mind the smile of a mischievous child, the single word "Mi-ya-be-am♡". If you looked closely, Miyabi-chan's glove was decorated with "MIYA", and even more, at the tip of her index finger, there seemed to be some device installed to amplify her trump card, the MiyaBeam.

However, Miyabi-chan, who had previously been mentioned as having an air of being the "QUEEN of IDOL", was acting gleefully. Certainly, she had declared her own special move inside her own regular radio programme "BAKUNAI" (Radio Nippon late night 3 am~), although one might recall the fact that she said, "Even though it's the memorable Nippon Budokan performance, shouldn't I give an impressive speech at the end?" However, with all the force of the audience towards Miyabi-chan, it couldn't be helped. Considering that the glove had specially customised, at an earlier meeting to put it together at the costuming stage for the Budokan performance, with adults going, "We want the MiyaBeam to be fired," it might be our imagination, since the appearance of Miyabi-chan who had proposed it looked slightly embarrassed, but to that extent the fans were fully satisfied.

Due to the "MiyaBeam" that hadn't appeared in quite a while, Budokan was charmed by Miyabi-chan, after which Sugaya Risako started with her speech. This girl, especially abundant in sensitivity, was already crying, and couldn't speak any words. Miyabi-chan, who had just moments ago been full of playfulness, put on her sub-captain face, and gently reached out to Sugaya's back.

"Up until about midday yesterday, I didn't really feel excited at all. But at night I slowly became nervous, like "the real thing's tomorrow isn't it?" Since it felt like there was such a long time until we performed at a place that's so huge, well, like this, I never thought that people would assemble since it's a weekday. Like what would we do if it was completely empty. I was really uneasy, and it was also on a weekday, with this and that, our ...... (sobbing) ... For coming to see us, I'm very very glad. The 7 of us in Berryz will still continuing joining our forces and trying our hardest, so we beg for your kind support."

While being the youngest in the group, in this period of nearly 10 years, she had many opportunities to stand as the so-called "centre." At times, she was pressured by the high expectations on her, but without giving up she worked hard with all her life. And appearing on the stage of dreams, one could only wonder at what Sugaya Risako was thinking. Understanding the significance of those tears, anyone would lend their ears, and everyone listened quietly to her words.

Captain Shimizu Saki, "In the midst of other groups producing all sorts of results, Berryz Kobo, hasn't really produced any results," she started looking back on 2013 with feelings of regret while her long eyelashes became damp.

Wanting to become even better, the memory of all of them savouring the joy, when in April, "Berryz Kobo's Nippon Budokan performance will be realised," was announced. They were able to pull off the circumstances set in May, that the Budokan performance could become a reality, or it could become a performance by Sharam Q. Which brings us to today.

There is a reason why Berryz Kobo does not have a leader, but rather, a captain. That is, because there is no hierarchical relationship between the girls. Without a rigid hierarchical relationship, without a head of the structure to be the leader, a representative among associates at the same level was chosen, that is, a captain (you could say, the representative had no choice). That system, as can be seen by looking at the present, led to the development of Berryz Kobo as a group of 7 truly individual people. But on the other hand, Shimizu Saki, compared to Morning Musume. and ℃-ute's favourable position, it somehow felt like Berryz Kobo was spiralling into stagnation, and so, by all rights she still experienced the same responsibility as a leader.

"From when the Budokan was decided, I couldn't bring the group together well, and there were also times when opinions didn't really match, but, as we approached the day, everyone's feelings united, everyone felt like they wanted to make it an enjoyable live performance, today, I think, wasn't this live performance an enjoyable live performance."

And in 2014, before Berryz Kobo reaches a full 10 years, "Moreover, since we get to do activities at all sorts of places, I think we should be thankful to the various people who love Berryz Kobo, from now on too please don't let Berryz Kobo out of your sight," appealed Shimizu. The eyes of the girl who was the driving force behind the realisation of the Budokan performance had completely regained a look of confidence.

Lastly the Nippon Budokan was wrapped up with a large chorus of "Yuujou Junjou oh Seishun". "If it's a dream, it would be all right to draw at any time," part of the song went. Berryz Kobo and the venue filled with fans, one could only start guessing towards what was next. Perhaps, it might be just the number of glow sticks shining in the darkness of Budokan. However, for the seven girls from Berryz Kobo, each and every one of those dreams might have been granted. It was a night that gave out such a feeling.

Then, after the performance had passed, we were reminded of it once again. 3rd March 2004. The magic of the childish witches. After all, it's definitely, a magic that can't be undone one's whole life.

And the fact is, "After all, I can't live without you."


text and photo by ytsuji aka Editorial department

{Thank you for reading, especially if you've followed from the first part. Most of the effort goes to the aforementioned author, but it was quite an undertaking as a translator - over 10,000 words, all said and done. Thank you once again.
Barks also did a 2-page report on their 10th anniversary live performance, same author, here. Don't think I'll translate it, but never say never. They could win another award for it, after all.}

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