Check out SKY-HI’s first single of 2022, ‘JUST BREATHE’, a collab with Stray Kids production unit 3RACHA! Music video also released!

 

 

SKY-HI has released his first single of 2022, a collaboration with production unit 3RACHA. The track, ‘JUST BREATHE feat. 3RACHA of Stray Kids’, was released on February 21.

 

Download and streaming links:

https://sky-hi.lnk.to/JUSTBREATHE

 

3RACHA is a production unit made up of Bang Chan, Changbin and HAN; they are a sub-unit of ultra-hot Korean boyband Stray Kids.

‘JUST BREATHE feat. 3RACHA of Stray Kids’ is an experimental, dramatic track produced by UTA, who has worked with artists from Japan and abroad such as Daichi Miura, BTS, AI and TWICE. SKY-HI, Bang Chan, Changbin and HAN worked together to produce the lyrics and toplines.

Each drawing on their own unique style, the four artists express their “reason to exist” through the lyrics, a theme that is in sync with these difficult times. As the track progresses from one phase to the next, the technical and emotional rap lyrics in Japanese, Korean and English leave a deep and lasting impression, echoing what so many of us feel – in sometimes shocking ways.

Along with the new single, the music video for ‘JUST BREATHE’ has also been released. For this fully-CG video, a playable game program was created to resemble a driving videogame, with the “player” controlling the movement of a buggy ridden by SKY-HI and 3RACHA as well as a motorbike ridden by SKY-HI, moving through a virtual space while synchronized with the sound frequency of the drum line. The video makes use of cutting-edge tech to fuse the chaos of the modern world with the track’s dynamic vision.

 

SKY-HI / ‘JUST BREATHE feat. 3RACHA of Stray Kids’ (Prod. UTA) -Music Video-

Keep an eye on SKY-HI and 3RACHA, so you don’t miss the changing of an era.

 

 

Release information

Digital single

Artist: SKY-HI

Title: JUST BREATHE feat. 3RACHA of Stray Kids

Release date: February 21, 2022

Download and streaming links: https://sky-hi.lnk.to/JUSTBREATHE

Music video: https://youtu.be/nR_wFk5KfIU

 

SKY-HI profile

In addition to his incredible rap skills, SKY-HI creates a variety of self-produced entertainment works as an outstanding vocalist, dancer and track-maker. He is also CEO and artist producer of management agency and label BMSG. Through his active roles on all sides of the industry, he highlights new possibilities for the Japanese music scene.

He made his debut in 2005 as a member of the group AAA, and at around the same time, he began taking the mic at clubs in Tokyo under the solo name SKY-HI, where he quickly gained props in the hip-hop scene. He made his major debut in 2013 and has released five original albums so far, with the high quality of his music gaining him praise in not only the hip-hop community but across genre boundaries.

In 2020, he launched his management agency and label BMSG, of which he is CEO. In the same year, he hosted the boyband audition series ‘THE FIRST’, and the following year he produced the boyband BE:FIRST.

BMSG: https://bmsg.tokyo/

Official website: https://avex.jp/skyhi/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skyhidaka/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SkyHidaka

Ameba blog: https://ameblo.jp/sky-hi-blog/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skyhi19861212

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SKYHICHANNEL

Subscription services: https://avex.lnk.to/SKY-HI_music

 

3RACHA profile

3RACHA is a three-member production unit within boyband Stray Kids consisting of members Bang Chan, Changbin and HAN. Last year, ultra-hot Korean boyband Stray Kids achieved JYP Entertainment’s first million-selling album release, having reached excited fans around the globe when they won the survival show ‘KINGDOM: LEGENDARY WAR’, quickly climbing to the top of the K-pop world.

 

Stray Kids official site: https://www.straykidsjapan.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/stray_kids_jp　

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/straykids_official_jp/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@straykids_japan

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXhj2pPWvONXmvgHX5wllCA

Official fan club: https://skz-stayjapan.com/s/n104/page/about_main

 

#SKYHI #StrayKids #3RACHA #BangChan #Changbin #HAN #JustBreathe #JPop #KPop #kpopidol #JapaneseCollaboration #newrelease #newsingle #SKYHIChannel #BMSG #firstsingle #JYP #AAA #StrayKidsProductionUnit #Tokyo #TheFirst #BEFIRST #kcrushnews #kcrushpress #vocalist #dancer #Japanese #AMEBABlog

2012 was arguably one of K-Pop’s most influential years! It’s hard to believe a decade has passed since the releases of “Gangnam Style” and “Fantastic Baby,” perhaps two of the most prominent hits of the year that had non-K-Pop having fun with the viral crazes both songs launched. 2012 also gifted us the debuts of Ailee, B.A.P, EXO, EXID, Fiestar, SPICA, BtoB, Nu’est, AOA, VIXX, and Crayon Pop. The year also featured the disbandments of Big Mama and Loveholics.
There are many fans that consider 2012 the year that got them into K-Pop. Here is a look back at the many songs released during the year. Of course, this isn’t every song that came out!

 

In addition to this look back, we also created a Spotify and a YouTube playlist for your Throwback Thursday listening pleasure!

Spotify

YouTube

 

Now it’s your turn! What were your favorite songs, stories, and moments from 2012? Share and reflect in the comments below! What was 2012 to you?

 

– Olivia

 

HID&GEM (힏엔젬, stylized HDnG) consists of four members: Roars, Airson, GoldenAge and X. HDnG’s main concept is to have the members’ identities concealed until the group reaches 1 million views.  

The four-member group made its debut on 25 December 2021, with 4SHADOWS.

We’d like to thank the members of HID&GEM for this interview, and we wish them all the best in all their ventures!

 

Would you introduce yourselves to our readers, please?

Roars: Hello, dear KCRUSH readers, we are HDnG! Thank you for liking a small group. HDnG has a lore concept and a shadow concept. We hope to give everyone something new every day.

Airson: For the HDnG interviews we have done before, we said hi to everyone in countries like Poland and Brazil. To all the readers of KCRUSH around the world, HDnG says hello to you! I am Airson!

GoldenAge: Hello! For HDnG Lore, all 4 members have special characters. We have a mission, to find real identity from 100 characters. In the first HDnG Lore, I am Nyeve, a girl who can make thunder.

X: Hi, KCRUSH America, we are so happy to meet you. Airson’s English is bad, but he will translate for us today.

 

Tell us the meaning behind all your names, and enlighten us on how the names were created.

Roars: Every member has a Korean stage name created in the summer. I am Jae-in, the other members are Hayan, Gu, Da-il. But our company decided on a shadow concept, so it is hard to know which member is which. Then in the summer, every member got a new English stage name with English meanings to fit each member’s voice. My voice is a lion.

Airson: Hello! Airson sounds like the wind. Hope my voice gives you calm, comfortable vibes.

GoldenAge: My voice sounds like a memory from like 100 years ago. Maybe like a boy, like a girl, like an old person, like a child – all together at the same time.

X: The real story is, because I am a rapper, I don’t have a very unique voice like the other three members. So my voice is a mystery, X.

GoldenAge: Actually, staff have a special answer for X’s voice – it sounds like cream black charcoal, drawn on rough paper.

 

What are HDnG’s concept, direction of music, and musical qualities?

Roars: HDnG’s concept is that we are four shadows in a card game, we have to find identity from 100 people. If we guess wrong, then we also disappear. To make the concept more fun, 100 people all have a story. HDnG Lore will have 100 stories. I hope all 100 characters can become your friends.

Airson: HDnG’s music concept… Before, we did not answer in interviews, but now, 4 SHADOWS and secret B-side HEALON’S THEME both are on Youtube, so we can say our concept, lol.

The concept is that each member has a special music genre, and four genres clash together to become DUBSTEP. In 4 SHADOWS, Roars is 1980 dance music, X is trap, Airson is celtic, and GoldenAge sounds like a 1910 old CD. Okay, the staff told Airson that it is not a CD. It is vinyl.

GoldenAge: Airson takes all the answers, he’s a very naughty lead vocalist. Pre Chorus in 4SHADOWS, is traditional Korean music style with bells. One PRYSMA in the world wrote a comment on December 25, saying that 4SHADOWS is like Pansori. Dubstep Pansori, is 4SHADOWS concept, haha.

X: Actually, I remember, PRYSMA said Pansori for HEALON’S THEME Secret B-side. In Pansori, there is some talking, so maybe in the future, HDnG will do very traditional Pansori? For now, we are finding new things we can bring from Korea, then we’ll see if the world likes it!

 

 

Tell us how you all got into music and was this something that you wanted to do growing up?

Roars: I liked music from childhood and watching TV with my nanny. I would stand in front of the TV to watch idols sing. But my childhood dream was to join a surfing competition in Hawaii.

Airson: Roars forgot his old answer, lol. Roars like music, because of movie music back then, and he introduced some good movies to me. I like music because of music from overseas like Celtic songs. Also, the elvish themes from Lord of the Rings! My childhood dream was to become an elf, haha.

GoldenAge: My mom. Mom taught me many old songs and hymns. My dream was to have talent in the future. I didn’t know what kind of talent, but in childhood, I hoped I could have talent in the future.

X: I like many rappers, and Roars is the lead rapper, so I like him. For singing, I can say that it’s something special because of HDnG’s concept, and many songs sound like OST for movies or anime. And to have rap in every OST, like HEALON’S THEME sounds bad, so the staff say that X also has to learn singing. So for music, I learned a lot from the three members. One special thing is that the three members have to sing in a unique way, so their voices will not mix up with my voice. Those three members keep a space for me, so I can have an easy time singing.

 

How would you describe HDnG’s musical sound in one word?

Roars: Hard.

Airson: Dark.

GoldenAge: Roars and Airson answered like that because HarDark is HDnG’s old group name. I would say it’s OST.

X: Fantasy.

 

Which artist would you most like to collaborate with?

Roars: We had TikTok before we had our debut, and on TikTok, we shared dance videos we like from many groups who inspire us to be good idols. So there are maybe 200~300 groups, and it is true, HDnG members like too many groups, small groups, and even disbanded groups. If you like, you can come see HDnG’s old TikTok from 2021, and watch some very good dance videos from 300 groups, lol.

Airson: One other thing that we may like to try is to sing together with some singers outside of our country. I mentioned in an interview before that we’d like to work with Enya, and Miriam Stockley, now I will add one more: Afro Celt Sound System.

GoldenAge: Maybe it is hard to find a different answer because Roars already answered 300 groups… GoldenAge will say, any group who disbanded that we like. We want to say thank you to them for giving us a happy childhood. 1st generation group, 2nd generation group, 3rd generation group, thank you for making our hearts warm in 2022 and in the future.

X: Ok, I have to think of a new answer, maybe for something new, partner up with a vocaloid person, like Japanese singer Hatsune Miku. Or anyone who likes to sing together with HDnG, HDnG will run to sing with  you!

 

Please recommend any songs that you listen to frequently nowadays.

Roars: At the company, we listen to new comebacks every day. Then we train their songs and learn their choreography. So everyday, there are so many new things to do for us, so it is hard to answer!!! Today is the second month in 2022, and song we learned is TAN 낙하산은 펴지 않을게요

Airson: TAN!!!! TAN!!! I was very happy to see TAN because C-CLOWN and 24K are the groups we like very much. The one song I like very much is TREI – TURN THE LIGHT.

GoldenAge: It is an old group, but because Airson said TREI, which makes me think of  EXID. EXID songs UP DOWN and WHO’S THAT GIRL make me have hope – many songs, even when people do not like them, or do not know them, can still be good songs.

X: Roar’s snoring.

 

When do you feel the most content or happy?

Roars: When PRYSMA feels happy, because it makes us feel, HDnG’s work is affected by them.

Airson: Maybe when I see something amazing in nature like white clouds.

Or when the staff give us some new information from outside the country, like we have a new interview today. Thank you!

GoldenAge: When together with family. Or when people who work very hard, the world sees them work very hard. When the world sees these people, I feel very happy. Also, this answer is not for HDnG, HDnG does not work very very hard, Airson and X eat snacks every hour.

X: Maybe when everyone cheers for the same goal. When everyone works for the same goal, I feel very happy.

 

What’s the first thing that you tend to do when you get up in the morning?

Roars: Wow, this is a special question. I check the time, then count how many hours of sleep I had. I know from the clock if today will be very tiring for training, I would have a plan for the day’s training.

Airson: I wake up, and think about what kind of work I’ll be doing today, how to do work very well and how to be better. Then realize everything is in a dream, actually, I am still in a dream world and did not plan on anything.

GoldenAge: Sleep. Sleep is a very good feeling. I sleep, until the staff comes.

X: Is going to the washroom a good answer? Maybe not. New answer: I take the phone and take a picture of the three members sleeping.

 

Tell us about your interests or hobbies you have.

Roars: I hope to direct a movie one day. Then go to a different country of the world, maybe a small place of nature, where no one will find me. Turn my life like an adventure movie.

Airson: Drawing!

GoldenAge: Draw, watch old videos, maybe read books from child time.

X: Gaming. One day, I hope I can make a game. A game in “Ri”, based on the world of HDnG Lore. Fashion design.

 

Tell us which artists you admire, and what direction of music you’d like to pursue in the future.

Roars: Wow, this is hard! To choose an answer, maybe for now, EXID’s SOLJI, because her group disbanded, then she joined EXID. Also, she has a lot of health issues and she is so strong. Any person who works very hard to make people feel happy, we want to learn from them.

Airson: In the future, I hope HDnG makes something to show the world, and show that HDnG can perform many different types of songs. But I also need to keep HDnG style. So it is hard. Dear PRYSMA, thank you for waiting for us, HDnG feels so happy when we know PRYSMA around the world is waiting for us four members.

GoldenAge: HDnG has one dream. In 200 years, when people find a HDnG song, maybe 4SHADOWS, they can still say: Oh, what a good song! I hope every song we sing can make this dream come true!

X: Hip hop, more rap. It is hard, because rap and HDnG Lore concept do not match together, LOL.

 

Share with us the goals and plans for the year ahead.

Roars: It will be hard, but I hope we can have a new song each year, and new Lore characters for PRYSMA. Every day, we will train and try to make our dreams come true. We hope we can achieve our goal! If we achieve this, HDnG wants to say thanks to everyone from all different countries for giving four boys a chance, a chance in Korea, and a chance in the world.

Airson: I hope 2022 is the year when the new PRYSMA will have many happy times and make new friends. The members sometimes use a translator to read PRYSMA messaging each other, which makes us happy.

GoldenAge: Small secret, no spoiler, there are some “hidden” words in 4SHADOWS video, and in Lore wiki, it tells secrets regarding HDnG’s future. Hope one day, all hidden words come true.

X: My plan is to try out new things. HDnG’s goal is the same as the company’s, which is to always try out new things. If the new things have a  0.00001 chance to meet a new PRYSMA, and make more PRYSMA happy in the universe, we will try to do that for you. Thank you!

 

– J.Chung.

 

 

#PRYSMA #HDnG #HDnGX #HdnGGoldenAge #Airson #Roars #kpop #gaming #gaminggroup #newconceptgroup #4SHADOWS #newsong #HID&GEM #fourmembergroup #DUBSTEP #HealonsTheme #Koreangroup #koreanpop #OSTmusic #fantasymusicsound #hiddenwordsin4Shadowvideo #kcrushinterview #kcrushnews #HatsuneMiku #AfroCeltSoundSystem #EXID #Pansori #SecretBSide #4shadowsinacardgame #cardgame #traditionalkoreanmusic #musicwithbells

 

HYBE Corporation peaked at its all-time high in its revenue, as the first K-pop management agency to surpass $838 million in its annual sales.

The South Korean entertainment company which houses acts like BTS, TXT, NU’EST, ENHYPEN, and ZICO, stated that its operating profits increased to a whopping 30.8% in 2021.

HYBE revealed that the annual sales for 2021 was 1.25 trillion KRW, up 58 percent compared to the year prior. Its operating profit leaped to 30.8 percent on-year to 190.3 billion KRW with a net profit at around 141 billion KRW, an increase of 62 percent.

This marks the first time HYBE has exceeded 1 trillion KRW ($838 million) in its annual sales, and it’s the first time ever for any K-pop agency to do so.

HYBE’s massive increase is undeniably due to the success of BTS and the company’s ventures like Weverse, games and digital webtoon that feature BTS.

The K-pop group’s album for “Butter” raked in a lot for the company by selling an estimated 7.4 million copies, and the single topped the Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart for 10 weeks.

HYBE’s album sales increased overall by 18 percent from the previous year to 378.5 billion KRW, with groups like Seventeen, TXT and Enhypen selling 3.7 million, 1.8 million and 2.2 million copies, respectively.

The entertainment company which started off with very humble beginnings, also owns Ithaca Holdings, the music label of Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Demi Lovato and other American acts since the company fully took over the label last year. Ariana Grande sold 2.4 million copies, and Justin Bieber 2.35 million copies last year.

With everything on the increase for HYBE, its earnings from concerts however were otherwise, compared to 2019. Due to the pandemic in 2020, BTS cancelled what would have been their biggest tour ever, and held online shows for their fans instead.

HYBE’s sales from live performances surged 980.5 percent year-on-year to 49.7 billion KRW in 2021, and 45.3 billion KRW of them came in the fourth quarter.

BTS’ concerts in SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles at the end of last year generated 40 billion won (33.3 million) in sales from just the in-person events. HYBE stated that when sales from YouTube Theater and online streaming are included, it recorded its biggest-ever sales.

 

– J.Chung.

 

 

#HYBE #Kpop #BTS #TXT #Enhypen #YouTubeTheater #onlinestreaming #HYBEsales #kpopidol #kpopmusic #SoFiStadium #LosAngels #Ithaca #TXT #ARMY #BTSConcert #April2022 #Seoul #ConcertsInKorea2022 #kcrushnews #ZICO #HYBEAnnualSales #SEVENTEEN #HYBELabel #BIGHIT #Weverse #Butter #Billboard #BTSWorldTour #PermissionToDanceOnStage

 

K-pop superband BTS are delighting US-based ARMY by announcing a four-night residency ‘BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LAS VEGAS’ on April 8, 9, 15 and 16 at Allegiant Stadium, the home of the Las Vegas Raiders.

These are the latest dates the Bangtan Boys have added to their Permission to Dance world tour to headline the nearly 65,000-capacity stadium in Las Vegas.

Registration for tickets are currently available and open until Saturday, February 26th at 5pm PT on HYBE website.

Those who can’t get tickets for the in-person shows have an option of  attending watch parties at the MGM Grand Garden Arena or stream the concert from the comfort of their homes during a live stream of the April 16 show.

The in-person live broadcast event “LIVE PLAY in LAS VEGAS” will also be held at MGM Grand Garden Arena for four days, and streamed online on April 16, the last day of the BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE tour.

 

 

For the Korea shows that were announced earlier this month, an online stream will be available on the March 10 and 13 shows, while the March 12 concert is scheduled for live broadcast in movie theaters worldwide.

The abrupt news of the BTS Las Vegas shows follows an announcement earlier this month that the group would perform three shows in Seoul on March 10, 12 and 13 at the Seoul Olympic Stadium in front of a live audience. This will be the group’s first concert to an in-person audience in South Korea in two and a half years or so.

While the K-pop group is currently said to be taking a break since the end of last year, the members are also working on a new album to release this year.

Big Hit Music revealed that it would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all the fans around the world who continue to show support for BTS and they will return as their best, healthiest selves after recharging so they can return all the love from the fans.

The management also released a statement via Weverse on February 22 that BTS member V was released from isolation today since he has fully recovered from COVID-19.

 

 

-J.Chung.

 

 

#BTS #LasVegas #Kpop #PermissiontoDanceonStage #WorldTour #HYBE #BIGHIT #Weverse #SeoulOlympicStadium #March2022 #kpop #kpopidol #ARMY #BTSTickets #TicketMaster #onlineevent #livestream #kcrushnews #koreangroup #newmusic #BTSConcert #kpopmusic #April2022

 

 

 

 

 

 

A line-up of musicians performing at the 2022’s SXSW (South by Southwest) yearly event is out and Asian artists, including K-pop idols, are representing their peninsula in this global happening. Over the years, the SXSW festival and concert has seen an increasing representation of diversity through a fusion of the entertainment industry’s artists and professionals from all walks of life. This year’s event; taking place online, in-person and remotely amid the Covid-19 pandemic, takes it a notch higher by giving the enthusiasts of Asian music an occasion to anticipate. In addition to South Korea’s AOMG artists; including Coogie and DeVita, here are some of the Asian musicians who have been selected for the SXSW’s line-up.

 

 

1. Y2K92

This hip-hop duo is one of South Korea’s well-known pact in the SXSW arena having performed in last year’s 2021 SXSW online event. One of the musical pieces the fans expect to hear is “Be-elijah” from their 2020 EP titled The Songs for The NOT-YETs among others. The duo is expected to represent South Korea’s musical culture through their genre-shredding and experimental hip-hop roots.

 

 

2. HAEPAARY

This alt-electronic duo of South Korean-decent is known for its exceptional reinterpretation of lyrics and melodies from legendary Korean artists. The group has radically redefined the ancient traditional Korean musical pieces into an appealing modern version that has taken the international scene by storm. This treasure duo is expected to awaken the ancient Korean rhythms on a global scale in the 2022 SXSW event. See our interview with them here.

 

 

3. Kiana V

Having been raised in a Filipino musical family and attending her father’s–Gary Valenciano–concerts, Kiana recently began flourishing in her music career, especially just before the pandemic hit. The R&B artists is expected to make yet another statement through a massive performance at the 2022 SXSW event with fans eagerly waiting to hear from her latest pieces, EP Dazed.

 

 

4. Haru Nemuri

This Japanese star has developed into an internationally acclaimed artist since playing the synth for the Yukue Fumel band at the age of 17. Since then, she has become a brand in the entertainment world and engaged in other facets, including composing songs for notable groups such as TOKYO GIRLS’ STYLE and broadcasting on FM Yokohama for her “Nemuissu.com” program. Having rocked the fans in SXSW’s 2021 online event, the fans are eager to yet again tap into Haru’s energy and talent this year. In addition to other tracks, the enthusiasts also expect a peak of Haru’s latest album whose release is expected for April, 2022.

 

 

5. Sorry Youth

The indie rock trio of Taiwanese descent is among the artists representing Asia in the 2022 SXSW event. The fans are eager to hear tracks from their Bad Times, Good Times album which accredited them a ‘Best Rock Album’ at the 2021 Golden Indie Music Awards. The audacious blend of rock and traditional Taiwanese sounds is an item worth looking forward to.

 

—-P. Earlkh

 

 

 

#SXSW #SXSWFestival #AustinTX #SXSW2022 #musicfestival #indierock #Taiwanese #Korean #Chinese #Japanese #SorryYouth #SXSWPerformerances #HaruNemuri #KianaV #HAEPARRY #Y2K92 #Hallyu #Asia #SXSWAsianMusic #GoldenIndieMusicAwards #KcrushAmericaMusicAwards #SXSWonlineevent #RnB #Filipino #traditionalkoreanmusic #kpop

 

The 2022 SXSW festival and conference is here! What does it mean to K-Drama enthusiasts and the Hallyu wave?

The SXSW festival and conference is an annual multi-media event which started back in 1987 and entails the convergence of artists, professionals and enthusiasts from the entertainment industry. The event creates a platform for global connections even as legendary and fresh talent of diverse backgrounds and cultures congregate and deliver live performances. This year’s SXSW festival and conference is set to commence on 11^th to 20^th of March. Despite the global pandemic status, this international event is still kicking off but through a monitored approach–remote, in-person and online–that aligns with Covid-19 guidelines. As such, anyone can encounter this epic happening in their most preferred version.  Attendees are expected to experience various activities including virtual cinema and live panels among others. In addition to enjoying the numerous specially-designed conference sessions in the 2022 SXSW digital events, exhibitions, and film screenings among others, participants get to network, win awards from competitions, and celebrate their idols during award ceremonies.

 

 

For the K-drama enthusiasts, this event is a must-attend. For the first time ever, a highlight of Korean dramas will be featured during the 2022 SXSW festival and conference. This confirms the increased expansion of K-dramas into the global, and especially the American, culture’s mainstream. With reference to a SXSW’s press release, a panel presentation focusing on the association between the U.S. market and Korean dramas will transpire on March 14, 2022. The panel’s hosts will be Korean entertainment podcasters and journalists such as Melissa Kim of NBC News and Korean Entertainment Content Creator | Podcaster Sara Layne (@youngajummah) and article contributor to “The Kraze Magazine.”  The Hallyu wave will further be skyrocketed since the presentation also covers on matters of navigating the K-drama future. As such, to have a full familiarity with all things K-drama, contribute towards steering K-drama aspirations, and network with like-minded parties, make a point of getting the tickets beforehand.

 

—-P. Earlkh

 

 

#SXSW #kdramapanel #SaraLayne #youngajummah #Hallyu #SXSWFestival #AustinTX #musicfestival #comedianshowcase #MelissaKim #Koreanactors #kpop #kpopmusic #korea #koreanmovies #koreandramas #KRAZEMagazine #NBCNews #Forbes

 

Vegetable carving is concurred to originate from Asia with the dispute being the exact country amongst China, Thailand and Japan. Some of the world’s most eminent vegetable carvings include Mukimono from Japan and Thaeng.yuak from Thailand. Since the mid-20^th century, the art of vegetable carving has proliferated in Asia and consumed the cuisine industry given the increased celebration of cooking as an art. Garnishing is another novel technique of an embellishing or decorating aspect used to finish up dishes before serving. Other than adding a decorative hue, garnishing can be used to add flavor–where in such a case, the garnishing ingredient’s taste ought to harmonize with the main dish. Garnish types range from leaves, flowers, fruits, roots, and vegetables among others. Vegetable garnish carving is a cutting-edge skill used to express art and beauty, among others. The most used vegetables in various garnish carvings in Asia include; cucumbers, carrots, radish, and tomatoes and broccoli. Below are some of the DIY vegetable garnish carvings to try out.

 

 

1. Radish

This vegetable can be eaten raw, grated into a topping (to counteract oiliness in some dishes, or cooked. A white radish’s bottom half is quite bitter and thus more preferable for cooking purposes.

 

 

2. Carrots

Apart from being enjoyed in salads, carrots are the most widely used vegetables in garnish purposes worldwide. This vegetable’s sturdy consistency and bright color, it is mostly use for embellishment purposes.

 

 

3. Cucumber

Compared to other cucumbers, the Asian ones are thinner and often eaten unpeeled. They are also often used as pickles, salads and garnishes.

 

 

4. Tomatoes

Compared to the western culture where tomatoes are preferred in cooking, the Asian peninsula fancies them more in their raw nature; either in salads or garnishes.

 

 

5. Broccoli

The broccoli is mostly enjoyed as a salad or when blenched, but its garnish purpose is on the rise with unique carving styles.

 

—-P. Earlkh

 

#DIY #garnishcarving #vegetablegarnishcarving #carrotcarving #garnish #broccoligarnish #cucumbergarnishcarving # Mukimono #Japan # Thaengyuak #Thailand #kcrusharticle #kcrushamerica #kcrush #dinnerplategarnish

Rating: 5 stars

 

 

For over a decade, this institute has produced a substancial number of Korean speaking students. Currently affiliated with Kenyatta University, the institute offers free Korean classes to the university’s student fraternity and the community at large. The director, who initiated and also teaches at this institute, is a Korean and so is his beautiful wife. One of the two main teachers is a Kenyan who has studied in Korea for over 7 years making her perfect for the job. The institute also endorses a student as an assistant thus promoting leadership qualities. The institute also receives a K-pop teacher; who is usually a Korean university student, from Korea’s main office on a yearly basis.

The institute offers various Korean related activities including; k-pop, k-drama, k-cuisine, k-culture, and Korean lessons. The class has an inbuilt library with numerous books ranging from Korean novels, newspapers, and language books. The lessons are divided in terms of levels in addition to a single common class every end week for students of all levels to mingle. Each lesson is divided into reading, writing, listening and speaking sections with certificates awarded at the end of each semester and level. There are numerous contests and competitions amongst the students of within the institute and against those of other Sejong Institutes; including ones were international finalists compete in Korea, with prestigious prizes and certificates to be won. The students get the opportunity to interact with both the Kenyan and international Korean community.

During the pandemic, the institute switched to online mode as with other fellow King Sejong institutes worldwide meaning individuals outside Kenya can gain access to the class. Other than participating and enjoying Korean cuisine, one of the other most interesting aspect is the numerous scholarship opportunities available to the Korean students. The staff is very patient, understanding, hospitable and always available to offer whatever help they can. I would highly recommend the Nairobi King Sejong Institute to any individual interested in furthering their Korean language.

 

—-P. Earlkh

 

 

#learnkorean #koreanlanguage #kenya #koreancuisine #kenyattauniversity #kpop #kdrama #kcrusharticle #kcrush #kcrushamerica #NairobiKingSejongInstitute #onlineclass #internationalkoreanclasses #koreanclasses #koreanlanguageclass

 

Upon leaving B.A.P boy band and his former agency, Bang Yong-Guk proved his worthiness and resilience in the music industry through the 2019’s self-titled Bang Yong-Guk album. The B.A.P’s former leader/vocalist; famously referred to under the “baby” fandom name, is back after a two-years hiatus period which also gave him room to undertake his mandatory military service. The legend graced his comeback through a teaser of his freshest hit, “Race”, on various music sites. On a more surprising note which solidified Yong Guk’s determination to reign in the music industry, his comeback was accompanied by the establishment of his CONSENT agency which took off by producing JUST B’s “Damage” debut single.

 

 

The dynamic MV “Race”–pre-released on November 23, 2021–is said to be inspired by F1 documentary films where Yong Guk compares life to F1 racing. The single’s concept outlines that just as F1 sports requires the cars to often stop at the pits for maintenance, the race to any fulfilled life requires some stopovers as well. Right from its teaser phase, “Race” oozed out a wild and mysterious atmosphere embedded in a unique neo and electronic-funky background.

 

 

Composed alongside Junik, Mook and Coup D’etat, “Race” is indeed the appropriate artistical piece for Yong Guk to return with. This is since the artist’s musical journey depicts that of an F1 race with his current status being the rebirth phase; after having taken some refreshing “stopovers”–which resulted in a one-man agency, venture in the producer field, and crafting of a notable musical piece. In the MV, Yong Guk’s determination to dominate the race can be articulated to the highly intricate tire wheels that depicts his ambition to not only start afresh as an artist, but also rule the K-Pop industry. Moreover, the “Race” single’s unique hip-hop/rock-genre, well-crafted lyrics, and complex concept portrays and solidifies Yong Guk’s sovereignty and aptitude as a solo artist. Additionally, such competence confirms the basis of Yong Guk’s adept leadership during his B.A.P membership epoch.

 

 

The artist once again had the fan’s wild with the latest February 2022 teaser of his upcoming extended album, 2, whose release is expected in March 2, 2022. The album’s lyrical teaser and concept photos among others were sequentially released starting February 15, 2022 coupled up with a global pre-sale session. The 2 EP is a full-length solo album featuring six tracks; including “G.M.T”, “Up”, “Screwed Up”, “싲”, “Off”, and “Race”. EP 2 will be released in the CHAOTIC and WANDERING versions of sizeable playlists. In a recent interview dated 19^th February, 2022, Yong Guk hinted that running a company has given him much insight on various aspects, including the complex process of creating pieces to completion. He also highlighted that, in addition to music, his CONSENT company will also touch on matters art and fashion. As an artist, Yong Guk expresses his aspirations of rising into a global brand through his music; whose race is officially on. Yong Guk is expected to have another interview coming 25^th February, which fans hope will reveal more regarding his career and personal life.

 

—-P. Earlkh

Sony Music Labels Inc.

TK from Ling tosite sigure announces striking new singles with guest vocalist Koshi Inaba （B’z）!

It will be featured in the advertisement for “Magic: The Gathering” the trading card game that holds Guinness World Records!

 

◀①TK (Ling tosite sigure)

 

◀②Koshi Inaba (B’z)

 

TK from Ling tosite sigure announced two new songs with guest vocalist Koshi Inaba (B’z), which will be released as a double A-side single “As long as I love / Scratch (with Koshi Inaba)” on March 16.

“As long as I love (with Koshi Inaba)” is a rock number with lyrics written by Inaba and music composed by TK. This song with Inaba’s powerful vocals along with TK’s intense guitars and his typical roller coaster-like composition will make everyone explode with excitement. On the contrary, “Scratch (with Koshi Inaba)” is a stunning ballad with a sad, solemn piano and strings, and the powerful voices of the two singers will touch all hearts.

“Scratch (with Koshi Inaba)” will be used in an animated advertisement for “Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty” which will be released on February 18. This is the latest product of the original strategic trading card game “Magic: The Gathering” which has over 40 million players and fans worldwide. The song will be available on YouTube and other sites from noon on February 16 and will also be available for pre-order on music distribution sites from 0:00 on February 17.

This collaboration came about from TK’s strong respect for B’z which impacted him since he started playing the guitar during his schooldays. To close off the 10^th anniversary of TK’s solo project, he sent Koshi Inaba a demo and the project became reality.

In October 2021, on the occasion of TK’s 10^th anniversary solo project, he released a best album “egomaniac feedback” including new songs and those collaboration songs with various musicians created a buzz.

In November, when Spotify had their 5^th anniversary in Japan and announced various rankings, TK’s song “unravel”, which was the opening theme song for the anime “Tokyo Ghoul” released in 2014, ranked first in the “most played Japanese songs overseas” ranking. It will soon reach a total of 200 million streams and has a great reputation overseas, especially in Europe and the United States.

The new single with Koshi Inaba, Japan’s leading vocalist who needs no further introduction, is a must listen to.

<Comment from TK (Ling tosite sigure)>

I’d always stay in my room, constantly playing B’z on my guitar. Their sound fascinated everybody and of course I was also blown away by their sound too. In this dream-like collaboration, Inaba-san listened and paid close attention to all my detailed requests. It was surreal and every single moment that he was involved in has been engraved in my new musical DNA. The voice that could be heard right next to me, sounded even more radiant than ever before, and it felt like an essential element was being poured from an unreachable place. The person that opened the doors to music for me, continues to be an overwhelming existence that still shook my heart, and it was a collaboration filled with joy. I hope that this song will leave a lasting impression for many people.

<Comment from Koshi Inaba>

When I was approached about this project, I had no idea what TK and I would be able to create together. So, we started on the premise that if we create something interesting and we’re both satisfied, then we would release it. And the moment I listened to the first demo he sent me, all my hesitations disappeared, and I let the momentum of TK’s creativity take over and ran with it until the end.

TK is a musician with great ears, open-minded with lots of ideas and above all has the ability to hold stimulating conversations. I am grateful for the wonderful musical experience.

And, of course, the finished song is amazing.

Koshi Inaba

[Release details]

★TK from Ling tosite sigure / “As long as I love / Scratch（with Koshi Inaba)”

March 16, 2022

Released from: Sony Music Labels Inc.

[Limited production edition (CD)] AICL-4218   1,430 Yen (tax incl.)

1. As long as I love (with Koshi Inaba)
2. Scratch (with Koshi Inaba)
3. As long as I love (with Koshi Inaba) Instrumental
4. Scratch (with Koshi Inaba) Instrumental

 

Click here for product purchase⇒ https://smar.lnk.to/H2Lk47

 

 

Click here for music distribution sites⇒ https://smar.lnk.to/jgPClj

 

[Biography]

■TK from Ling tosite sigure

He is the frontman, vocalist, and guitarist of Ling tosite sigure. He is in charge of all the music, lyrics and engineering and expresses his music with a sharp and original perspective.

The song “abnormalize” released in 2012 created a buzz as it was the opening theme of the anime, ”PSYCHO-PASS”.

In his solo project “TK from Ling tosite sigure”, he has taken on a wider range of forms of expression, from band style with piano and violin to solo acoustic.

Among the various rankings released during Spotify Japan’s fifth anniversary in November 2021, “unravel” which was the opening theme for the anime “Tokyo Ghoul” released in 2014, ranked first in the “most played Japanese songs overseas” ranking and will soon reach a total of 200 million streams.

In 2019, his song was chosen as the theme song for the Japanese release of the animated film “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” and has been highly acclaimed from Japan and abroad.

In 2021, he released a best album “egomaniac feedback” to commemorate the 10^th year of his solo project. And the collaborations with milet and Kosuke Saito (UNISON SQUARE GARDEN/XIIX) drew much attention.

He has provided music for the popular Japanese idol SMAP, Aimer and Yuko Ando, and is active in a wide range of fields.

 

[Official Site]           http://tkofficial.jp/

[Official Twitter]                @sigure_official

[Official Facebook]   @sigure.official

[Official Instagram]  @tk_snsfakeshow

 

■Koshi Inaba

Debuts as B’z in 1988. He is the vocalist and writes all the lyrics.

In 1997, he released his first solo artist album “Magma”, for which he wrote, composed, and arranged all the music. With the diverse sound, lyrics projecting his personal side, and the overwhelming yet delicate vocals, he established his identity as Koshi Inaba the musician. In parallel with all the B’z creative and concert activities, since 2004 Inaba has been holding solo tours titled “en”, a word that he cherishes in his solo project. Since 2017, he has also teamed up with guitarist Stevie Salas to release two albums as INABA / SALAS.

 

■What is “Magic: The Gathering”?

<World’s first, world’s best strategic trading card game in digital format>

“Magic: The Gathering” was created in 1993 in the United States. It was developed by mathematician Richard Garfield and is published in 11 different languages in over 70 different countries, with over 40 million fans and players. The goal of Magic is to win by meeting the victory conditions such as summoning powerful creatures and drawing powerful spells that can lower your opponent’s life to zero. With new card sets being released throughout the year, the games environment constantly changes.

Official Japanese Site:                  http://mtg-jp.com/

Official Japanese twitter account:   https://twitter.com/mtgjp

 

■Magic’s first official trailer by a Japanese animation production company

In the feudal Japan-inspired distant future setting of “Kamigawa”, the animation depicts the story of the “bond” between the two main characters “Kaito Shizuki” and ”The Wandering Emperor”. The animation production was handled by WIT STUDIO, a company that produced the famous works such as “Shingeki no Kyojin (Attack on Titan)”, “Osama Ranking” and many more.

It will premiere on the official YouTube channel at noon on February 16 (Japan time).

 

■Newest set “Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty” details

 

 

The newest set is a tribute set depicting the story 2,000 years after the “Kamigawa” block of “Champions of Kamigawa”, “Betrayers of Kamigawa” and “Saviors of Kamigawa” released in 2004 and 2005. This past set featuring creatures such as samurai and ninja with the abilities such as Bushido and Ninjitsu is popular amongst the Japanese fans too.

 

■Showcase version cards newly drawn by three famous Japanese artists are available

The showcase version cards were newly drawn by manga artist Tetsuo Hara, art director Yoji Shinkawa and illustrator Katsuya Terada.

In addition, this Set Booster pack includes Side Loaders (34 variations), and if you win the special one, you will receive a foil-spec card autographed by the artist himself in a specially designed, serial-numbered acrylic frame (with the autograph data printed)

 

■Ukiyo-e art style basic Land cards included

There are ten ukiyo-e basic land cards created

by a Japanese artist. The Japanese taste condensed

into a small card is a unique element of Kamigawa.

 

■”Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty” product details

Product site                          : https://mtg-jp.com/products/0000223/

Release date (for Japan)         : February 11, 2022 (Friday)

Suggested retail price             : Set Boosters                             …… 550 Yen (tax incl.)

Draft Boosters                       …… 440 Yen (tax incl.)

Collector Boosters                        …… 2,420 Yen (tax incl.)

Commander Deck (5 variations)    …… 4,400 Yen (tax incl.)

Bundle Box (English ver. Only)      …… 4,400 Yen (tax incl.)

 

■What is MTG Arena?

<World’s best strategic trading card game on PC >

“Magic: The Gathering Arena (MTG Arena)” is a free-to-play digital collectible card game for PC and mobile devices that allows one to play Magic easily and professionally. With intuitive controls, powerful performances, and a matching system that instantly connects you with players worldwide. It offers a different Magic from the table-top experience. MTG Arena has been adopted by numerous tournaments and is now leading the way for Magic as an e-sport.

MTG Arena Official Japanese Site: https://mtg-jp.com/mtgarena/

MTG Arena Official Japanese twitter account: https://twitter.com/MTGArenaJP

 

■Company Overview

Company　：Wizards of the Coast LLC

Address　 ：(Headquarters)1600 LIND AVE SW SUITE 400 RENTON WA 98057

(Japan contact) 101-0041, 2-8-2 Kanda Sudacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

President　：Chris Cocks

Established：1990

Business　：Game publishing, digital dame development and operations

URL　　　：http://company.wizards.com/

 

#TK #Lingtositesigure #KoshiInabaBz#Bz #SonyMusicLabelsInc #WizardsOfTheCoastLLC #Japanese #MTGArena #AsLongAsILove #Scratch #unravel #anime #TokyoGhoul #WITSTUDIO #JPOP #egomaniacfeedback

 

-the original songwriter responded to MCND’s creative cover video, ‘Man On The Moon’.

– A Fresh attempt of MCND, combination of POP and K-Performance! The high-quality creative performance video drew attention.

Alan Walker, Famous Producer and DJ responded to K-pop boyband MCND’s creative cover video.

The MCND’s video, [PLAY MUSIC GROUND] ‘Man On The Moon’ (Alan Walker x Benjamin Ingrosso), which was released on February 17th through the official YouTube channel, was pleasantly answered by original songwriter Alan Walker.

 

 

[PLAY MUSIC GROUND] #MCND Alan Walker x Benjamin Ingrosso – Man On The MoonㅣCOVER – YouTube

 

Allen Walker, a famous producer of the electronic dance music, left a comment on MCND’s YouTube video, “you guys need to teach me some new moves for my next show🕺🏻” MCND also replied, “I think it’d be nice to do. it together!! Thank youuuuu ♥”

MCND has presented a various music, including cover songs and dances, in their own style through their own music project, ‘PMG (PLAY MUSIC GROUND)’. In particular, the cover video created a new choreography in POP. Global K-pop fans praised them for ‘the best creative choreography ever’, ‘It is so fresh attempt’, ‘amazing dance skills of all-main dancer’s’, and ‘best artist’.

 

 

On the other hand, on the 14th, MCND announced the holding of the first European tour ‘[1ST] MCND EUROPE TOUR 2022’. This is the first K-pop concert to be held in Europe, After the COVID-19 pandemic. MCND will hold their first face-to-face concert, from April 9 to 17. They will visit 7 cities in 6 European countries, from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, London, England, Budapest, Hungary, Cologne, Germany, Paris and Toulon, France, and Lausanne, Switzerland.

 

 

#MCND #MCNDEuropeTour2022 #kpop #koreanboygroup #AllanWalker #covervideo #ManOnThe:MoonCover #ManOnTheMoon #BenjaminIngrosso #chroreogrpahy #PMGPLAYMUSICGROUND

 

K-pop supergroup BTS is back this March with PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – SEOUL.

On February 16, Big Hit Music released the news that there will be “BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – SEOUL” concerts next month in March.

The three-day concerts will be held with audiences on March 10, 11, 12, and the March 10 and 13 dates will be streamed live online for fans who are unable to attend, while the performance on March 12 will be broadcast in cinemas across the world for live viewing events.

The BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE concerts will be held in southern Seoul at the Olympic Stadium – which seats approximately 70,000 – and this will be the K-pop group’s first concert in Seoul in over two years since their world tour “BTS WORLD TOUR LOVE YOURSELF: SPEAK YOURSELF THE FINAL” was held at the same venue in October of 2019.

 

 

At the end of 2021, the septet successfully performed four-day concerts for live audiences at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, which sold out in no time and became the biggest ever Billboard Boxscore in California.

These concerts at 2021 SoFi Stadium grossed $33.3 million with 214,000 tickets sold, making it the largest gross for a run of shows at a single venue since 2012, the biggest Boxscore in the U.S. in 18 years, only behind Bruce Springsteen’s 10-shows, and the second-biggest in the 30-year-plus history of Billboard Boxscore in North America. BTS is currently the sixth best-grossing engagement in Billboard Boxscore history.

Details on how to attend or watch the BTS concerts in March are said to be announced via BTS’ global fan community platform Weverse very soon.

 

 

The latest news from Big Hit Music is that Kim Tae-hyung, mostly known as V, is the latest member to test positive for COVID-19.

The statement revealed that V visited a hospital on February 15, after experiencing a sore throat and fever, and was confirmed of his diagnosis.

“V completed two rounds of COVID-19 vaccinations and is not presenting any extraordinary symptoms other than a mild fever and sore throat. He is currently undergoing treatment at home while waiting for further guidelines from the health care authorities.

There was contact with the other members on Saturday the 12th, but everyone was wearing a mask, and there was no close contact.

None of the BTS members other than V are presenting any symptoms, and everyone received negative results from the preemptive self-tests.”

Big Hit also stated that “the company places the artists’ health as our top priority and we will do everything we can to aid V in his speedy recovery. We will also diligently cooperate with the requests and guidelines of the health care authorities.”

RM, Jin and Suga had been tested positive for COVID and recovered in December. In January, Jimin was hospitalized, then discharged from the hospital on Feb. 5. It was revealed later that he also received surgery for acute appendicitis.

Here’s hoping that all the members will all be well in time for the upcoming concerts in March and we wish them well for all future endeavors.

 

 

-J.Chung.

 

 

#BTS #PermissionToDanceonStage #Seoulconcert #V #covid #Kpop #RM #JHOPE #JIN #JIMIN #Suga #JungKook #BillboardBoxscore #Weverse #BIGHIT #BTSWorldTour #kcrusharticle #kcrushamerica #koreangroup #appendicitis #kcrushmagazine

 

The most recent report from South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korean Foundation for International Culture Exchange (KOFICE) stated that the most popular Korean stars in the world right now are K-pop superband BTS and actor Lee Min-ho.

The 2022 Overseas Hallyu (Korean Wave) Report’s survey was conducted on 8,500 respondents aged from 15 to 59 in 18 different countries – the United States, Japan, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Vietnam, Australia, Argentina, Brazil, France, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Turkey, South Africa, and Russia.

As a result, BTS has been voted as the favorite K-Pop act for four consecutive years, and Lee Min-ho was voted as the favorite Korean actor for two consecutive years.

This survey, regarding Korean cultural questions, was conducted online for a month from November to December of 2021, and the same survey was taken last year of 2021 since it is published annually.

According to the data, 26.7% of the 4,679 respondents chose BTS as their favorite musical act for four consecutive years since 2018, followed by BLACKPINK with 10.4%.

 

 

BTS’s vote percentage increased from 22% when compared to the survey back in 2020, while BLACKPINK took the No. 2 position for the third consecutive year, their votes decreased slightly by 3% in a year.

This would be due to the fact the group hadn’t released new music since 2020.

IU came in third place with 2.8%, Lisa of BLACKPINK close behind with 2.4%, Psy and TWICE were both positioned fifth with 2.2%, followed by EXO with 1.7%.

 

 

IU emerged in the rankings for the first time since 2018, Lisa became the first Thai to make the list, while PSY managed to rank in the list even without any music releases or music activities in a long while.

 

 

And, 9.3% of the 8500 respondents voted for Lee Min-ho as their favorite Korean wave actor again this year, followed by Hyun Bin with 3.1%, Gong Yoo with 2.8%, followed by Song Hye-kyo with 2.2%, and Song Joong-ki with 2.1%. Lee Jong-suk with 1.7%, and Jun Ji-hyun came in seventh place with 1.6%.

The Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE) was designated by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to invigorate cultural exchange transcending national boundaries.

The Overseas Hallyu Survey was created by KOFICE in 2017 – its many goals include determining the consumption of Hallyu content each year, and works towards bilateral cultural exchange events, global networking, research and professional training programs for experts in related fields.

 

 

– J.Chung.

 

 

#hallyu #Kpop #favKoreanact #KOFICE #KoreanWave #BTS #LeeMinHo #Lisa #kpopgroup #koreanmusic #koreanactor #PSY #IU #KOFICESurvey #hallyuvoting #topvotes #kpopfan #bilateralcultureexchange #JunJiHyun

 

[1ST] MCND EUROPE TOUR 2022′ will be held in 6 European countries and 7 cities in April.
– Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, there are a lot of love calls due to the rising interest in K-pop and K-content in Europe. MCND will open its first K-pop performance in Europe since the Corona Pandemic.

MCND, the representative idol of the 4th generation idol., will hold its first offline performance since its debut and hold its first European tour ‘[1ST] MCND EUROPE TOUR 2022’ to solidify its position as a global idol.

When the news of the tour was announced on MCND’s official SNS on the 12th, interest in the first face-to-face concert poured out from global fans not only in Europe but also around the world, raising expectations for the first European tour. Starting with Amsterdam the Netherlands, from April 9th to 17th, MCND will visit six European countries and seven European cities, including London of the United Kingdom, Budapest in Hungary, Cologne in Germany, Paris and Toulon in France, and Lausanne in Switzerland to meet European fans.

In particular, MCND’s performance is raising expectations in Europe as it is the first K-pop performance to be held as most of the sanctions on COVID-19 in Europe are eased amid growing interest in K-pop and K-content in Europe despite the Corona Pandemic. Immediately after its debut, MCND has already received many love calls from overseas promoters such as Europe, the Americas, and Asia, and plans to realize meetings with global fans in earnest, starting with the European tour.

MCND, which debuted during the non-face-to-face period, has strengthened its position as 4th generation talented idol group by holding an online solo concert with a setlist of more than 20 songs in 2020 and 2021, and has been steadily communicating with global fans through various contents such as its own music projects.

Meanwhile, detailed information on MCND’s first European tour ‘[1ST] MCND EUROPE TOUR 2022’ will be released sequentially from February 15.

Photos provided = TOP Media

 

 

#MCND #1stMCNDEuropeTour2022 #kpop #MCNDofflineperformance #kpopgroup #kpoptour2022 #newtour #kpopidol #EuropeTour #MCNDSNS #facetofaceconcert #koreanpop #koreanmusic #EuropeanTour

 

Album BAD MODE debuted at #1 on digital charts in Japan and also significantly ranked in various charts in 21 countries and regions around the globe. The album will soon be available on CD, including the Single-run Limited Edition, on February 23.

While we wait eagerly for the CD release, Hikaru has shared the music video for one of the bonus tracks from the album, “Face My Fears (A. G. Cook Remix),” on February 10!

The music video has been released to celebrate the launch of the KINGDOM HEARTS series cloud versions on Nintendo Switch. Created by the video production team from REAL ROCK DESIGN, it features famous scenes from the series edited anew to sync with the music. A world-wide audience has been sending rave comments since the video release was announced, as proof, once again, of the global popularity of the Kingdom Hearts series and its theme song.

 

 

The original “Face My Fears (English Version) / Hikaru Utada & Skrillex　“KINGDOM HEARTS III” Opening Theme Song” charted in the US Billboard Hot 100, and the new version was remixed by A. G. CooK, who co-produced “One Last Kiss” and “Kimini Muchuu,” also on the album BAD MODE, turning out the brand-new banger.

The album will include three versions of the song: Japanese and English versions of the original and the A. G. CooK remix. Check out all of them!

※Face My Fears (A. G. Cook Remix)　YouTube URL: https://youtu.be/SbT55Ggd__E

KINGDOM HEARTS Series Official Website: https://www.kingdomhearts.com/home/us/

 

 

Hikaru Utada

Joins “The Zane Lowe Show” on Apple Music 1

 

Hikaru Utada is proactively interviewing with various media not just in Japan but also overseas including Billboard and MTV NEWS for her new album, BAD MODE.

Now we are super excited to announce that they will be interviewed on Apple Music’s radio station, Apple Music 1’s program “The Zane Lowe Show” for the first time! The episode starts streaming live at 3AM (JST) on February 11! Fans can enjoy Apple Music radio wherever they listen to Apple Music as well as online at music.apple.com. The episode will be available to listen to on-demand after it airs.

Zane Lowe has interviewed many of the world’s top artists, including Billie Eilish, Justin Bieber, and Kanye West, so be sure to tune in on the convo and check out what they talk about!

Apple Music 1: https://music.apple.com/us/radio

Listen to The Zane Lowe Show on Apple Music anytime on-demand at apple.co/_Zane (This is case sensitive)

Hikaru Utada Artist Page:

https://music.apple.com/artist/%E5%AE%87%E5%A4%9A%E7%94%B0%E3%83%92%E3%82%AB%E3%83%AB/18756224

 

<Release Info>

[New Album]

BAD MODE

Release Date:

Wednesday, January 19, 2022 (Digital)

Streaming & Download: https://hikaruutada.lnk.to/badmode

 

Wednesday, February 23, 2022 (CD)

Single-run Limited Edition: CD+DVD+BD 6,800 JPY (incl. tax)

Standard CD: 3,300 JPY (incl. tax)

 

CD Tracklist

1. BAD MODE
2. Kimini Muchuu  (Main Theme for TBS Friday Night Drama Saiai)
3. One Last Kiss  (Theme Song for EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME)
4. PINK BLOOD  (Main Theme for Anime Series To Your Eternity)
5. Time  (Main Theme for NTV Sunday Drama Bishoku Tantei Akechi Goro)
6. Kibunja Naino (Not In The Mood)
7. Darenimo Iwanai  (SUNTORY Tennensui CM Song)
8. Find Love  (Featured in SHISEIDO’s Global Campaign “POWER IS YOU”)
9. Face My Fears (Japanese Version) / Hikaru Utada & Skrillex

(Opening Theme for Action Role-Playing Game KINGDOM HEARTS Ⅲ)

10. Somewhere Near Marseilles

 

Bonus Tracks

11. Beautiful World (Da Capo Version)

(Theme Song for EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME)

12. Kireina Hito (Find Love)
13. Face My Fears (English Version) / Hikaru Utada & Skrillex

(Opening Theme for Action Role-Playing Game KINGDOM HEARTS Ⅲ)

14. Face My Fears (A. G. Cook Remix)

 

Single-run Limited Edition DVD/BD Tracklist

・”Hikaru Utada Live Sessions from Air Studios”

1. BAD MODE
2. One Last Kiss
3. Kimini Muchuu
4. Darenimo Iwanai
5. Find Love
6. Time
7. PINK BLOOD
8. Face My Fears (English Version)
9. Hotel Lobby
10. Beautiful World (Da Capo Version)
11. About Me
12. Face My Fears (Japanese Version) [Bonus Track]

・Behind The Scene “Live Sessions from Air Studios”

・Music Videos

1. Time
2. One Last Kiss
3. PINK BLOOD
4. Kimini Muchuu
5. BAD MODE

 

CD Pre-Order: https://erj.lnk.to/0UsH19

Special Website: https://www.utadahikaru.jp/badmode/en/

Purchase Benefits: Original Postcard

 

 

<Vinyl>

March 10^th Releases

First Love　2LP　UPJY-9202/3　5093 JPY (incl. tax)

Distance　2LP　UPJY-9204/5　5093 JPY (incl. tax)

DEEP RIVER　2LP　UPJY-9206/7　5093円 JPY (incl. tax)

 

April 27^th Releases

ULTRA BLUE　2LP　UPJY-9208/9　5093 JPY (incl. tax)

HEART STATION　2LP　UPJY-9210/1　5093 JPY (incl. tax)

Fantôme　2LP　UPJY-9212/3　5093 JPY (incl. tax)

Hatsukoi　2LP　 ESJL-3125/6 5093 JPY (incl. tax)

BAD MODE　2LP　ESJL-3123/24 5093 JPY (incl. tax)

 

*Limited press / 180g heavy weight vinyl

*Entry ticket enclosed for original T-shirt giveaway

Purchase Benefits: Original Sticker (Album Cover Art)

 

【To Enter the Giveaway Campaign】

Paste the entry ticket onto a postcard and send to enter a draw for 200 lucky winners to receive one of eight different original T-shirts!

*The number of T-shirt is limited, and the giveaway will end as soon as it has run out.

 

<Spotify Special Program>

Listen Spotify official playlist Liner Voice+ Hikaru Utada BAD MODE

English: https://spotify.link/HikaruUtadaLinerVoicePlusEN

Japanese: https://spotify.link/HikaruUtadaLinerVoicePlusJP

 

 

<Instagram Live Program>

Title: Ask Hikaru Paisen!

Date & Time: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 / Starts around 9 pm (JST)

Instagram link: Hikaru Utada Instagram account @kuma_power

https://www.instagram.com/kuma_power/

To send a question: Post the question on Twitter with the hashtag #AskHikaruPaisen2022

To enter the giveaway: Make sure you have also followed the Hikaru Utada Staff Twitter account (@hikki_staff) to be eligible.

 

 

#HikaruUtada #BadMode #Japanesesinger #JPOP #Hikaru #TheZaneLoweShow #AppleMusic1 #Billboard #newmusic #newalbum #Aprilmusic #FaceMyFears #kingdomHearts #RealRockDesign #JRock #Japanesemusic #AGCookremix

 

On February 11, the highly-anticipated soundtrack “Stay Alive” for the BTS-inspired Naver webtoon – 7Fates: CHAKHO – sung by Jungkook and produced by SUGA of BTS, topped a record-breaking number of iTunes charts worldwide in just 14 hours since it dropped.

“Stay Alive” has now become the first song by a Korean artist in 2022 to debut straight at No.1 on the worldwide iTunes chart and the European iTunes chart at the same time.

It also set a new record for the fastest song by a Korean soloist to top the iTunes Top Songs charts in all eight of the largest music markets in the world: U.S, Canada, Germany, France, U.K, the Netherlands, Japan, and Australia.

“Stay Alive” is a heart wrenching ballad produced by Suga with vocals by Jungkook, which is a soundtrack to the animated Naver webtoon “7Fates: CHAKHO” that follows the seven members’ mission to avenge their loved ones. The urban fantasy fiction set in the near future is said to be an interpretation of the chakhogapsa, the legendary tiger hunters of the Joseon Dynasty period – which lasted from 1392 to 1897.

The Bangtan Boys label HYBE described the new soundtrack as a “nod to the characters in the story as they try to survive in a vicious world with the lyrics exploring an isolated boy’s earnest heart and message to himself and friends that he meets in that vicious world.”
HYBE went on to state that the track has a “dreamy, sublime energy that compliments the storyline and atmosphere of the urban fantasy story that portrays confrontations between humans and the Tiger tribe in a corrupt world.”

As soon as “Stay Alive” dropped, it reached No. 1 on iTunes top song charts in 93 different countries, including the U.S, U.K, Ireland, Germany, France, Finland, Austria, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Italy, Poland, Spain, Bulgaria, Canada, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, malaysia, Japan, Australia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, and many more, approximately a day after its release.

The soundtrack is also the first and the only solo song ever to top the iTunes charts in more than 90 regions on its first day, and the first song by a K-Pop act to dominate the U.S. iTunes song chart with a 2022 release.

 

 

J.Chung.

 

 

 

#StayAlive #BTS #JungKook #Suga #Itunes #CHAKHo #bangtan #kpop #kpopmusic #newsong #newsingle #topofcharts #kpopidol #kcrushnews #ARMY #BTSARMY #Koreanpop #Koreanpopculture #Asianmusic #BTSfans

 

The album version of the song ‘Shock/Shogeki’ by Yuko Ando, which is the ending theme song of “Attack on Titan, The Final season Part 1” has been released. It is great timing because the TV anime “Attack on Titan, The Final Season Part 2” has just started to air and has been getting so much attention.

When “Attack on Titan, the Final Season Part 1” began, fans who had watched the music video of the song ‘Shock/Shogeki’ noticed that Yuko Ando was not singing the last lyrics of the song. So people have been curious about this mysterious missing line.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAuwzw_5JU4

The reason why the last line of the lyrics was not sung at that time was because the story was still continuing after ‘Attack on Titan, The Final season part 1’, and the last line was too revealing to include at that time.  But since the original manga has finally ended when Yuko Ando released the album, she recorded this same song again with the last line of the song added, and she included the whole completed song into her new album.

Are there any other songs which can be the theme song for ‘Attack on Titan’ rather than the song ‘Shock/Shogeki’ ?  Please check Yuko Ando’s new album to find out !

It seems that there are more songs about ‘Attack on Titan’ sung by Yuko Ando, rather than ‘Shock/Shogeki’ which was the ending theme song of “Attack on Titan,The Final Season Part 1”.

‘Children of the Forest/ Mori No Kora’ and ‘Goodbye Halo’ are also songs Yuko Ando tried to create for the world of ‘Attack on Titan’. When she first released the album in November there was no official information about the connection between these two particular songs and anime story.

But through some interviews Yuko Ando herself admitted that she created these songs after she read the manga ‘Attack on Titan’. It is quite obvious when you read the lyrics that she created the songs inspired by the story.

Many fans of the song ‘Shock/Shogeki’ pointed out that the song ‘Goodbye Halo’ is about Eren and Mikasa on SNS.

Both the opening and ending songs of ‘Attack on Titan’ are great as usual and please enjoy the final season of the TV anime ‘Attack on Titan’ with the great songs by Yuko Ando. She hopes to complete the world of ‘Attack on Titan’ with her song by adding the missing words.

 

——————————————————————————————————————————–

Reference source：KEP https://kyodo-osaka.co.jp/kep_online/detail/301

(Interviewer) The first song of the album, ‘All the little things’ is a very lively song and seems to be full of positive energy.

(Yuko Ando) Actually I was thinking of creating a little bit of a dark feeling song at the beginning.

The last song of the album ‘Shock/Shogeki’ is the ending theme song of the ‘Attack on Titan, The Final season part 1’. When the last comic book of the ‘Attack on Titan’ series was published I felt that I wanted to create a song which will show the real ending of the story. Then I created the song,’Goodbye Halo’ . So when I started making the song ‘All the little things’ , I was thinking of keeping the same tone, like a self reflection, which ‘Goodbye Halo’ has.

——————————————————————————————————————————–

 

 

‘Shock/Shogeki (album ver.)’ is included in the album “Kongtong Recordings” by Yuko Ando so please listen to it again while watching the exciting “Attack on Titan,The Final Season Part 2”.

https://lnk.to/Kongtong_recordings

 

■■Information about the album

Release date : On Wednesday, the 17th of the November 2021

【Title】Kongtong Recordings

【Release link】https://lnk.to/Kongtong_recordings

【Tracks】

01.All the Little Things

02.ReadyReady

03.UtU

04.Babyface

05.Koi wo Mamotte

06.Children of the Forest/Mori No Kora

07.Shojo Kobanashi

08.Toiki

09.Boku Wo Utsu Ame

10.teatime

11.Goodbye Halo

12.Shock/Shogeki（album ver.）:The ending theme song of TV anime ‘Attack on Titan, The Final season part1’

 

 

【Product number of the CD】PCCA.6075

【Price of the CD】3,300 yen (Tax incl.)

 

■■ Official site

▼Yuko Ando Official site

https://www.ando-yuko.com

▼Yuko Ando Official Twitter

https://twitter.com/yukoando_ucad

▼Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/yuko_ando/

▼Yuko Ando Official YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuJOS7FFIeXCFHEKRpWXubw

 

#YukoAndo #AttackOnTitans #ChildrenOfTheForrest #ShockShogeki #breakingnews #Japanesenews #newalbum #newmusic #worldnews #internationalnews #GoodbyeHalo #tvanime #kcrush

 

MONDO GROSSO, the solo project of Japanese musician Shinichi Osawa, returns with a new album of incredible collaborations featuring the cream of the Japanese music scene. Released digitally today (February 8), ‘BIG WORLD’ boasts a lineup including Ryuichi Sakamoto, Hikari Mitsushima, Mika Nakashima, Takao Tajima (Original Love), Yoshie Nakano (EGO WRAPPIN’), Asuka Saito (Nogizaka46), suis (Yorushika), PORIN (Awesome City Club), CHAI, DONGURIZU, ermhoi (Black Boboi/millennium parade) and RHYME.

 

Download and streaming links:

https://asab.lnk.to/mondogrosso_bigworld_digi

 

MONDO GROSSO ‘BIG WORLD’ special site:

https://www.shinichi-osawa.com/bigworld

The advance release in January of the track ‘IN THIS WORLD feat. Ryuichi Sakamoto’ was welcomed by fans around the world, racking up over 2 million views on YouTube. A miracle collaboration, the track features a piano performance from Ryuichi Sakamoto, with lyrics written by UA and sung by Hikari Mitsushima. This was followed by ‘FORGOTTEN (Vocals: ermhoi [Black Boboi/millennium parade］)’, a song about remembering what has been forgotten. And now, a video has been released for ‘STRANGER (Vocals: Asuka Saito [Nogizaka46])’, which shows a different side of Saito than Nogizaka46 fans might expect.

 

‘STRANGER (Vocals: Asuka Saito [Nogizaka46])’ music video:

https://youtu.be/Leraccmh6UI

 

Read on below for special messages from all of the participating artists!

IN THIS WORLD feat. Ryuichi Sakamoto (Vocals: Hikari Mitsushima)

“At first I was not sure what I could contribute to a song like this, but I moved my hands as I was led by the melody.” – Ryuichi Sakamoto

“When I first heard the music and read the lyrics, I was moved by how wide-open and natural they felt, and I tried to carry that feeling into my vocals and sing with love. And in the music video I got to fly, too. It’s a bittersweet but happy song filled with endless sensitivity.” – Hikari Mitsushima

FORGOTTEN (Vocals: ermhoi [Black Boboi/millennium parade］)

“A few years back, I was captivated by Hikari Mitsushima’s beautiful voice and the cool music on her previous collaboration with MONDO GROSSO, and I never imagined I’d get to participate in their wide world – but I dreamed it may be possible someday if I really believed. The lyrics ‘We’ve forgotten how to be loud, how to be proud’ are melancholic, but they resonate with me somehow, and I sang them while calmly feeling the weight of expectation. Thank you.” – ermhoi

 

B.S.M.F (Vocals: DONGURIZU)

“I’m so happy I could produce music with MONDO GROSSO. When I first heard the track, I felt it was a little cool, but it grew more intense and energetic as we worked on it. It’s a track that sounds great in the dark with the volume up loud, but it’s also good for sunny days. You could even blast it from your car speakers on the way to the beach with your friends.” – DONGURIZU

 

OH NO! (Vocals: CHAI)

“We’ve had one surprise after another since Osawa-san sent us this track! The song made us feel so many emotions; it made us consider what we wanted to express, the image of MONDO GROSSO and how we could subvert it, and how to make the song as interesting as possible. We thought about how CHAI could scream from our hearts like children, and express something ‘fun!’ and ‘strong!’ on this track. The themes on the album are extremely timely, including some parts that echo our feelings as CHAI, so it was a super exciting production. I was reminded how much fun music can be ♡ MONDO GROSS is the best! ♡ – MANA (CHAI)

 

LAST HEART (Vocals: suis [Yorushika])

“Thank you for this wonderful opportunity. When I first heard the demo for this song, I remember feeling an atmosphere I had never felt before, clenching my fist and saying, ‘This is a new challenge!’ Then when I received the lyrics, I felt intensely close to the music, and I felt the joy of singing something so true to my own life. I hope the lyrics I sang will reach all kinds of people, so that they can each lose themselves in the song in their own way. I’m happy to have been able to sing ‘LAST HEART’, and to have the opportunity to be heard as I really am.” – suis (Yorushika)

 

STRANGER (Vocals: Asuka Saito [Nogizaka46])

“The last time we collaborated was such a wonderful experience, but I didn’t expect to have the chance to work together again. ‘STRANGER’ has a shoegaze sound that is different from our previous song together, ‘Wakusei Tantra’, but I loved it from the first time I heard it, and the lyrics written by Osawa-san were easy to relate to and easy to sing. Between the song and the music video, I got to show a different side to myself than in Nogizaka46, and I’m thrilled to see how listeners react. It was a joy to participate in this project!” – Asuka Saito (Nogizaka46)

 

LOST PEOPLE (Vocals: Yoshie Nakano [EGO-WRAPPIN’])

“While respecting the feelings of the singer,

the singer’s thoughts,

and the best way to reach the listener,

how should the lyrics of the singer intertwine with the music?

Osawa-san knows the answer.

Because every sound in the song

exists in its right place,

there is also a right place for the lyrics.

That’s where the act of singing becomes free,

and the singer can start to dance, to smile,

to be sad, to rejoice, to tremble.

Such skill

cannot be achieved simply by hard work.

It’s a world born of Osawa-san’s strong love for music.

Having the opportunity to sing lyrics

that have their own place in the music,

I swung like a fish in the ocean.

Without hesitation,

I saw the translucent blue bottom of the universe.” – Yoshie Nakano (EGO-WRAPPIN’)

 

ILLUSORY REFLECTION (Vocals: Takao Tajima [Original Love])

“How long had it been since I last saw Osawa-san? It’s been so long that I don’t know how long it’s been. And yet when we reunited for this collaboration, we soon started talking about cars, and while we were in the studio we spent half the time talking about cars and the other half talking about recording! It’s surprising to me that this was only our first time to work together. Either way, it was fun, and I was happy that we are both still working hard at making music. Thanks for the nice track, Osawa!” – Takao Tajima (Original Love)

 

CRYPT (Vocals: PORIN [Awesome City Club])

“Collaborating with MONDO GROSSO was a major ambition of mine as a vocalist. I first met Osawa-san in 2017 when a mutual friend introduced us at a club. I proclaimed that I would do my best to reach a level where I could work together with him, and about four years later, the offer finally came. At last! I wish I could brag about it to my younger self. On ‘CRYPT’, I was able to absorb Osawa-san’s color completely, and to express myself in the exact opposite of my usual style singing pop music. It’s an ephemeral and addictive song. I hope you will hum along and move your body together with us.” – PORIN (Awesome City Club)

 

OVERFLOWING (Vocals: Mika Nakashima)

“It is a great honor to be able to participate in MONDO GROSSO’s new album, ‘BIG WORLD’. I’ve received songs from Osawa-san in the past, and they are always extremely, extremely cool. They are songs that my fans and I love, and they are a real treasure. It was so exciting to be able to sing a new song for the first time in a long time. I hope the album can be enjoyed by many people.” – Mika Nakashima

 

BIG WORLD (Vocals: RHYME)

“Wherever you are in this big world, however you heard about MONDO GROSSO, whenever you listened for the first time or the ten-thousandth time, this new album will hit your core and revive memories from the time of your childhood to this exact moment, today. This is the right time to say, ‘I love you’.” – RHYME

 

About the new album ‘BIG WORLD’, Shinichi Osawa comments:

“The background and the process of producing the album ‘BIG WORLD’ have become an important part of my life as a musician. I can’t even imagine where I will go from here, but I have no doubt this will be the starting point for my ‘next journey’. To everyone who was involved in making this album and to everyone who will listen to it: Thank you.” – Shinichi Osawa (MONDO GROSSO)

 

 

MONDO GROSSO ‘BIG WORLD’

Digital release: February 8, 2022

Download and streaming links: https://asab.lnk.to/mondogrosso_bigworld_digi

 

Physical release: February 9, 2022

CD+Blu-ray: 4,500 yen (plus tax), RZCB-87060/B (first press limited edition Digipak)

https://shop.buyee.jp/mu-mo_shop/item/rzcb-87060a

https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/RZCB-87060?s_ssid=e33ace61d9016ed636

 

CD: 3,000 yen (plus tax), RZCB-87061 (first press Digipak)

https://shop.buyee.jp/mu-mo_shop/item/rzcb-87061a

https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/RZCB-87061?s_ssid=e33ace61d9016ed636

 

CD tracklist

*Details are the same for RZCB-87060/B and RZCB-87061

1. INTRO
2. IN THIS WORLD feat. Ryuichi Sakamoto (Vocals: Hikari Mitsushima)
3. FORGOTTEN (Vocals: ermhoi [Black Boboi/millennium parade])
4. B.S.M.F (Vocals: DONGURIZU)
5. OH NO! (Vocals: CHAI)
6. LAST HEART (Vocals: suis [Yorushika])
7. STRANGER (Vocals: Asuka Saito [Nogizaka46])
8. LOST PEOPLE (Vocals: Yoshie Nakano [EGO WRAPPIN’])
9. ILLUSORY REFLECTION (Vocals：Takao Tajima [Original Love])
10. CRYPT (Vocals: PORIN [Awesome City Club])
11. OVERFLOWING (Vocals: Mika Nakashima)
12. BIG WORLD (Vocals: RHYME)

 

Blu-ray tracklist (RZCB-87060/B only)

1. IN THIS WORLD feat. Ryuichi Sakamoto (Vocals: Hikari Mitsushima) music video

2. STRANGER (Vocals: Asuka Saito [Nogizaka46]) music video
3. FORGOTTEN (Vocals: ermhoi [Black Boboi/millennium parade]) music video

 

MONDO GROSSO profile

MONDO GROSSO made their major-label debut in 1993 with Shinichi Osawa as the band leader and bassist, touring Europe as part of the worldwide acid-jazz movement. The band broke up in 1996, and Osawa continued to use the name as a solo artist. Since then, he continued to innovate musically and released hit albums such as ‘MG4’, which included ‘LIFE feat. bird’, and ‘NEXT WAVE’, which included ‘Everything Needs Love feat. BoA’, before halting activities in 2003. 2017 brought the first new album release in 14 years, ‘Nando Demo Atarashiku Umareru’. Unconventional collaborations with Hikari Mitsushima, Asuka Saito (Nogizaka46) and AiNA THE END (BiSH) captured the attention of music fans, and the music video for ‘Labyrinth’, sung by Mitsushima, gained over 31 million views on YouTube. In 2021, the hits collection ‘MONDO GROSSO OFFICIAL BEST’ traced the trajectory of MONDO GROSSO over the past 30 years.

www.mondogrosso.com

 

On February 10, Korean actors Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin surprised their fans by announcing that they are getting married next month, in March.

Son Ye-jin shared a photo of a miniature wedding dress on Instagram with a heartfelt message. She wrote a message in both Korean and English that she and her boyfriend Hyun Bin will be tying the knot.

 

 

“I thought long and hard about how to share this story because it’s an important one.

I found someone to spend the rest of my life with.

Yes… it’s him.

 

Boy meets girl,

recognizes each other in the crowd,

promises to build a future together…

I couldn’t imagine!

 

It happened so naturally…

But, isn’t that destiny?

 

Just being with him, I feel warm and protected. Please help us celebrate the beginning of our future.

 

And to my dearest fans,

I have received unconditional love and for a long time now,

I thought, there’s no way to repay it.

Please know that I’m infinitely grateful and

I also wish you all happiness!”

 

 

Soon-to-be-husband Hyun Bin also sent a handwritten letter to the fans to address the news.

The K-drama couple confirmed to be dating back in December of 2020 after starring together in the hit drama series, Crash Landing on You.

On the same day, T-ara’s Ji-yeon announced her marriage to Korean baseball player Hwang Jae-gyun. They’ve been dating for 5 months since last year after first meeting each other through a mutual friend.

 

 

Both Ji-yeon and Hwang Jae-gyun shared handwritten letters along with several photos of themselves. Ji-yeon wrote:

“Hello, it’s Ji-yeon. There was something I wanted to say to the fans directly, so I took up the courage to write this. I debuted in my teens, and time has passed, and now I’m already in my 30s. After debuting when I was young and afraid of everything, when I was going through anxiety in my teens, when I wanted to give up in my 20s, when I wanted to give up during difficult times, I am where I am today because you always reached out and rooted for me to overcome all that.

To the fans who believe in me and support me, I want to tell you first and foremost, not the words or writings of other people. I have a boyfriend I met last year through an acquaintance that I am dating with good intentions.

I promised to get married to him in the coming winter with a boyfriend who’s like a gift in my life, who always cared for me, cherished me, and taught me what happiness is. I will live a happy life with him, since he firmly held me when I was unstable and gave me a shoulder to lean on.

I’m worried you may have been surprised by the sudden news. The day will come when I can share this happiness with you, so I’m very shaky and nervous as I write each letter. I’ll continue to repay you in the future for the support and love that you have shown me.

Thank you, and I love you.”

 

 

K-pop power couple HyunA and Dawn, who have been together for about 6 years, also revealed their marital plans on February 3 via their Instagram.

Dawn posted a photo of their rings with the caption ‘MARRY ME’, and Hyuna replied in a post with “Of course, yes.”

The couple showcased a pair of customized opal rings with different colored and shaped diamonds.

Unlike the other couples, Hyuna and Dawn’s announcement came with slight controversy, and their agency didn’t seem to have been aware of their engagement.

Congratulations to all couples who are planning to get married this year, it’s always great to hear such news during such times when things may not seem very stable or promising.

 

– J.Chung.

 

#Marriage #SonYejin #HyunBin #Hyuna #Dawn #Kpop #Jiyeon #Koreancouples #upcomingmarriage #Koreanactors #Koreanactress #kcrushcontent

 

 

The Asian peninsula is eminent for maintaining its ancient traditional cultures and practices. Its perpetual serving of traditional cuisines, despite the sweeping effect of globalization and modernization, has glorified the Asian foods on a global scale. The Japanese cuisine is one of the highly accorded nourishment associated with improving one’s health while maintaining a youthful look. Japan has numerous originally grown vegetables and fruits; of a wide variety, whose uses an intake have spread on a global scale. Below are some of the original fruits and vegetables grown in Japan.

 

 

1. Musk Melon

Referred to as the king of fruits in Japan, the suspicious fruit distinguishes itself from other melons owing to its distinctive scent and shape. The musk melon’s net-like patterned smooth surface, pleasing fragrance, colorful appearance, high nutritional value, as well as its sweet, tender and juicy flesh culminates to the melon’s eminence. The melon; which exist in numerous varieties including Yubari an Ibara king melons, has gained a global popularity and is often associated with class and novelty thus attributing to its wide usage as a gift ware.

 

 

2. Citrus

Popularly known as Shikwasa limes, these Japanese native citrus fruits are renowned for their oranges-reminiscent scent that is countered by a tart sour mil sweetness. This layered fruit, which turns yellow upon ripening, is often used in its immature green taste for flavoring purposes. Shikwasa lime juice is used in various instances including fruit salads and marinades. An eminent application of the lime is in the brewing of Awamori drink; a famous alcoholic beverage from Japan’s Okinawa island.

 

 
3. Shine Muscat

This is a seedless green berry of the grape variety eminently known for its high sugar content. Developed from a cross breed of two fruits, the shine Muscat falls more on the expensive side of fruits given its larger size, high sugar content, and luxury status. The berries have a unique musky flavor resembling that of a mango and mandarin and can be consumed together with the skin.

 

 

4. Peach

Japan is also known for its wide variety of the famous white peaches with the native and most reputed ones being the Shimuzu and Hakuhou white peaches. Grown in Okoyama, these two varieties – with a pink and milky white hue- are known for their extremely tender texture and sweet taste immersed in a syrupy fragrance. The Shimuzu white peach reigns supreme in Japan’s white peaches category in matters juiciness, taste, tenderness and scent. In addition to the white peaches being consumed raw and made into jam among other uses, the premium fruit is widely used in gift boxes in Japanese culture.

 

 

5. Pears

A pear is a crisp fruity of grainy texture and high water originates from the East Asian peninsula. Japanese pears have a crunchy sweet and juicy feel; characteristics of both an apple and pear, and come in numerous varieties with the famous and unique ones being Nansui, Kosui, and Nikkori. Compared to Nansui and Kosui, Nikkori is the largest Japanese pear variety credited for its sweet, juicy and soft flesh.

 

 

6. Akebia

The flavorful fruit; whose pod skin turns purplish upon ripening, is famous for its sweet white flesh. The gelatinous pulp has a mild sweetness balanced by the existing seeds. The fruit’s complex flavor is said to resemble that of various fruits including passionfruit and lychee. Akebia’s pod is also used as a vegetable in various recopies with a notable one being its stuffing with miso flavored minced meat. Additionally, Akebia leaves are used to make tea infusions while the plant’s vines are used in basket-weaving crafts.

 

 

7. Strawberries

Strawberries consume a substantial status in Japan’s fruit kingdom. Some of the varieties unique to Japan include Amaou, Tochiotome and Skyberry with Tochiotome being most eminent for its use in sweets production and its top rank in Japan’s strawberry production levels. However, the most iconic strawberries are the white strawberries which have taken the world by storm. As the name indicates the white strawberries; a resultant of an extensive strawberry crossbreeding research, have a white skin and flesh coupled with colorful red seeds. Compared to the red strawberries, the white ones are sweeter; with a pineapple taste ensued by a candy-like after-taste, and are a bit expensive owing to their labor-intensive production process.

 

 

8. Eggplant

The Japanese eggplant’s uniqueness stems from its elongated and slender shape. It is more preferable for its thin skin; which cooks well into a residue that does not overwhelm a dish, and porous flesh; which readily absorbs a dish’s accompanying flavors. Moreover, the eggplant -which is a source of vitamin C, potassium and nasunin- pairs well with various aromatics and also retains its purple color thus adding a vibrant color to the food.

 

 

9. Negi

This Japanese onion is increasingly gaining reception in the global market. Compared to other spring onions, Negi is thicker and longer; with a larger portion of the white stem. Negi is used for various dishes based in its part; for instance, the crisp green part for aromatics, white part for simmered dishes, and the roots for soups.

 

 

10. Wasabi

Wasabi is a unique vegetable that is best enjoyed as a seasoning or condiment compared to a roast or sauté as other vegetables. This cruciferous vegetable is among the hardest to grow commercially due to its demanding extreme weather conditions as those of Japan. The deep flavored wasabi paste is made from its finely grated/crushed stem that is then used with other dishes, especially sushi.

 

—-P. Earlkh

 

#originaljapanesefruits #originaljapanesevegetables #wasabi #negi #Shikwasalimes #japaneseeggplant #akebia #Amaou #Tochiotome #Skyberry #Tochiotome #muskmelon #whitepeaches #Okoyama