New Balance 327 Web Commercial Features AKB48 Performing New Single

27.September.2021 | FASHION / MUSIC

AKB48’s new single Nemohamo Rumor has been making waves with its catchy beat and incredible choreography. The group’s first new single in a year and a half, members Nana Okada, Yui Oguri, Hitomi Honda, and others are performing the track in a new web commercial for New Balance 327 sneakers! The CM is available on ABC Mart’s official website, as well as AKB48’s official YouTube channel. 

 

To commemorate the release of the new commercial, 48 lucky people will receive a purchase bonus, including an original photo card and snapbook in a new app lottery campaign. A special pop-up will also be held on the second floor of ABC-MART GRAND STAGE Ginza starting September 23, 2021. 

 

 

ABC-MART GRAND STAGE Ginza 2F Special Pop-Up

Participating AKB48 Members

 

 

Behind-the-Scenes

While the choreography for Nemohamo Rumor is incredibly complex and demanding, the members didn’t show a single sign of exhaustion or fatigue during shooting, instead happily chatting with each other and commenting on each other’s performance the entire time. As we checked the footage, we were incredibly impressed by how the shoes looked as they performed. 

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    During the MC segment, it was announced that their hit song “Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro,” which garnered a staggering 800 million views on TikTok and surpassed 12 million views on the music video since its digital release last year, would be released as the group’s first-ever CD single in this September. The announcement of the release consisting of a first-press limited edition, regular edition, and member edition featuring solo jacket designs for each member, heightened the excitement of the audience even further. With smiles on their faces, the group delivered an outstanding performance of all 14 songs, bringing the live show to a close.

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    FRUITS ZIPPER’s single Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, released last year, has inspired over 700 million related videos on TikTok, while the music video has been viewed over 10 million times. Keep an eye on their activities in the near future!

  • KAWAII LAB. Report #19: New Idol Group CANDY TUNE Shares Thoughts on Upcoming Debut Concert

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    -Your debut concert is coming up soon! How are you feeling? Share a message with the fans!

     

    Bibian Murakawa

    “Hi everyone! I’m Bibian Murakawa and my member color in CANDY TUNE is pink. The seven of us have been working together during all kinds of different lessons to become world-class idols. Everyone is so cheerful and each member has her own hobbies and special skills. It’s been a blast spending time with them every day! We want the world to know what we’re like inside and out, and to love us for who we are!”

     

    Twitter: @bibian_ct1203
    Instagram: @murakawabibiann
    TikTok: @murakawabibiann

     

    Mizuki Kirihara

    “After so much training and so many different lessons, I’m happy to finally be able to perform on stage. We’re lucky to have such amazing songs and costumes, and I hope to express myself in authentic CANDY TUNE style. Just spending each day with the members and staff, in general, fills me with so much happiness, and I can’t wait to bring that joy to the fans! I just hope everyone can be happy!☺️”

     

    Twitter: @mizuki_ct0221
    Instagram: @kirihara_mizuki
    TikTok: @kirihara_mizuki

    Rino Fukuyama

    “I feel blessed to have had all these months of lessons and prep before our debut, and I’ve really been giving my all! I want this to be the best possible debut concert and I hope we can exceed everyone’s expectations. I know I’ll be nervous before we go on stage, but this is something that will happen only once in my life, so I want to enjoy it as much as I can! I hope you enjoy listening to our music right up until you see the live performance!”

     

    Twitter: @rino_ct1224
    Instagram: @rinomaru_
    TikTok: @rinomaru_

     

    Nanako Ogawa

    “Only a few days are left until our debut. I still can’t believe I’m about to become an idol! (Laugh)

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    Twitter: @nachico_ct1001
    Instagram: @__nchisan__
    TikTok: @__nachisan__

     

    Natsu Minami

    “Not long ago, everything felt so new and I was just trying my hardest to keep up with lessons each day. But as we get closer to our debut, I feel more and more like I’ve really become an idol. I’m both nervous and excited about what I’ll see at our first concert since it will be my first time appearing as a real idol! I’m just so happy to be a member of CANDY TUNE…I’ll keep bettering myself right up until the show on 3/14!”

     

    Twitter: @natsu_ct0317
    Instagram: @nattanntan
    TikTok: @nattanntan

     

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    “Each member of CANDY TUNE is very unique, and I think that really comes through in our performances. I can’t wait to show you all how much we’ve grown! So many people have supported us since before our debut, and we’ll never stop being grateful for that. Having been able to perform as idols in such a wonderful environment is a blessing. We’ll keep improving ourselves in order to give even better performances in the future, but first, we want to give our all at our debut!”

     

    Twitter: @shizuka_ct0530
    Instagram: @myn_szk_ct
    TikTok: @miyano_shicha.

     

    Kotomi Tachibana

    “I’m thankful to have been given so many opportunities leading up to our debut, like dance and singing lessons, speaking lessons, and so many other things that other idols might have never had a chance to do. I’m working hard every day to put those efforts to good use during our first live show! I have so many feelings about our first concert–I wonder what the view will be like! I want it to be a huge success, and while I’m a little anxious, I’m just looking forward to meeting the fans more than anything! ♡ I hope the concert makes everyone happy!”

     

    Twitter: @kotomi_ct0525
    Instagram: @kotomi_5chan
    TikTok: @kotomi_5chan

     

     

     

    Check out each member’s profile here: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/676709

     

    The members of CANDY TUNE have been working hard as a team each and every day in preparation for their debut concert, focusing on the feelings they hope to convey to their new fans.

     

    The girls are sure to put on a memorable show, and there’s no doubt that their historical first performance will bring happiness to each and every person in attendance. Be sure to keep an eye on CANDY TUNE going forward!

  • CANDY TUNE Releases First Album ‘CANDY TUNE’

    09.March.2023 | MUSIC

    CANDY TUNE, the newest group from KAWAII LAB, released their first album on March 7. KAWAII LAB is continuing to introduce Japanese idol culture to fans around the world.

     

    The seven-member group is comprised of members Rino Fukuyama, Mizuki Kirihara, Natsu Minami, Nanako Ogawa, Bibian Murakawa, Shizuka Miyano, and Kotomi Tachibana. Just like candy, which comes in tons of different flavors and shapes, the members will bring their own unique personalities and quirks to their pop tunes as they carry on KAWAII LAB’s mission of sharing Harajuku style with the world.

     

    Two songs on the group’s first album CANDY TUNE were produced by Naoki Kubo and Suu, former members of SILENT SIREN–the sweet and playful Kiss Me Patissier and the inspiring song hanamaru. Hirotaka Hayakawa, who has produced hit songs for countless artists, also contributed. Nanairo Prologue tells the story of the seven members moving forward across a rainbow-colored bridge, andMikan na Seishun (Unfinished Youth) has a fast-paced sound sure to be a hit with new fans. The group’s artist photo and the jacket art for the album were provided by Yuko Takayama (yenter).

     

    CANDY TUNE will hold its debut concert titled KAWAII LAB. SESSION ~CANDY TUNE~ on March 14 at Spotify O-EAST. To commemorate the special occasion, IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER will also perform. The three groups will perform the FRUITS ZIPPER hit track Watashi no Ichiban Kawaiitokoro together during the event, and tickets are now on sale.

     

    Additionally, new interviews with the members and behind-the-scenes footage have been uploaded to CANDY TUNE’s official YouTube channel.

  • 【KAWAII LAB.】New Idol Group「CANDY TUNE」Debut Concert Planned for March 14 at Spotify O-EAST

    07.February.2023 | MUSIC

    A new idol group is coming in March 2023 from KAWAII LAB. , to promote Japan’s growing idol culture to the world.

     

    So far, four members have been announced ahead of the group’s debut concert. The group name and details of their debut concert have just been revealed!

     

    Following IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER, the third idol group born from KAWAII LAB. has been announced as CANDY TUNE. The name is meant to evoke the image of both kindhearted girls and catchy melodies and harmonies.KAWAII LAB. will continue to focus on its concept of promoting Harajuku culture to the world.

     

    The four members announced so far are Mizuki Kirihara, Rino Fukuyama, Natsu Minami, and Nanako Ogawa. More members will be announced in the near future.

    Clockwise from top: Mizuki Kirihara, Nanako Ogawa, Rino Fukuyama, Natsu Minami

     

    CANDY TUNE’s debut concert titled KAWAII LAB. SESSION ~CANDY TUNE~ will be held on March 14 at Spotify O-EAST! IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER, both created by KAWAII LAB., will also perform, with the members of CANDY TUNE performing on the same stage as their seniors for the first time.

  • Ayakashi Triangle Anime Adaptation by Philosophy no Dance Now Streaming, Non-Credit Opening Released

    23.January.2023 | ANIME&GAME / MUSIC

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    ©矢吹健太朗/集英社・あやかしトライアングル製作委員会

  • New Idol Group from KAWAII LAB Project Reveals 2 More Members

    19.January.2023 | MUSIC

    In March 2023, a brand-new idol group from KAWAII LAB will be born, furthering the project’s aim to introduce Japanese idol culture to the world. The first two members of the mysterious group were revealed in December 2022 and two more members have just been announced.

    Following Rino Fukuyama and Mizuki Kirihara, gravure model Natsu Minami and experienced idol Nanako Ogawa have joined the new group. The number of members has not yet been revealed, but more additions to the group are expected to be announced ahead of the girl’s March 2023 debut.

     

    The group’s name and debut concert details will be announced in the future.

     

    Following the stunning success of both IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER, we’re looking forward to seeing KAWAII LAB’s third group!

     

    <Member Comments>


    Natsu Minami

    “Nice to meet you! I’m Natsu Minami, but you can call me Nattan.
    I’ve worked as a model in the past, including some gravure shoots. From this point on, I’m going to use what I’ve learned to improve my singing and dancing, so look forward to it!

    This is my first time taking lessons like this and participating in recording sessions. I’ve worked alone in the past, but the other members have been so supportive and I love them already! I’ll do my best to show you all how much I’ve grown when we debut!”

    Birthplace: Tokyo
    Height: 156cm
    Birthday: March 17, 2001
    Talent: Making clothes
    Hobbies: Photography, cosplay

     

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/nattanntan
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nattanntan/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nattanntan


    Nanako Ogawa

    “I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by girls who have experience as idols and who have such amazing potential. I can’t believe I’m here.

    Now that I’m spending time with these incredibly strong members each day, I can’t wait until we make our debut!

    I’ll do my absolute best to devote myself to this group in my own way, so I hope you’ll support me!”

     

    Birthplace: Hokkaido
    Height: 160cm
    Birthday: October 1, 1999
    Talents: Figure skating, finding ♡ in my everyday life, memorizing choreography quickly
    Hobbies: Taking selfies, fortune telling, social media, watching mukbangs

     

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/__nchisan__
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__nchisan__/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@__nachisan__

  • New Idol Group from KAWAII LAB Project Coming in March 2023

    13.January.2023 | MUSIC

    In March 2023, a brand-new idol group from KAWAII LAB will be announced, furthering the project’s aim to introduce Japanese idol culture to the world. Two members have been announced ahead of the group’s debut.

    Rino Fukuyama and Mizuki Kirihara have been announced as members, both having former idol experience. It’s unclear how many members the group will have in total, but more details are expected to be revealed in the coming months.

     

    We’re looking forward to seeing what KAWAII LAB’s third group will be, following the stunning success of both IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER.

    <Member Comments>

    Rino Fukuyama

    “I’m Rino Fukuyama, also known as Rinomaru, and I’m happy to announce that I’ll be a member of a new idol group from KAWAII LAB. It still feels like a dream, and I’m so excited to work in a totally new environment.
    Lessons have already started, and seeing the incredible potential of the other members has me so excited to see what’s to come. Honestly, I think we’re going to be one of the strongest groups out there, so be sure to stay tuned!
    I’m looking forward to taking on all kinds of new challenges. We’re all going to make our dreams come true, so please support us!”

     

    Birthplace: Tokyo
    Height: 155cm
    Birthday: December 24
    Talents: Dance, Choreography, English (Spent time abroad)
    Hobbies: Watching girls’ basketball, Cosmetics

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/aksb_rino
    Instagram: 
    https://www.instagram.com/rinomaru_/
    TikTok: 
    https://www.tiktok.com/@rinomaru_

    Mizuki Kirihara

    “I’m so happy that I’ll be an idol in this new environment with these wonderful members.
    I hope everyone will support me as I do what I love and strive to become more expressive and strong.
    We’re getting ready to show you so many different sides of ourselves, and we’ll be sure to never lose our sense of gratitude.
    I’ll pour everything I have into this and will make my dreams come true, and in the future, I want to show those who support me so many unique things!”


    Birthplace: Ibaraki Prefecture
    Height: 148cm
    Birthday: February 21, 2003
    Talent: Dance
    Hobbies: Music, Leaning languages (Korean, English)

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/kirihara_mizuki
    Instagram: 
    https://www.instagram.com/kirihara_mizuki/
    TikTok: 
    https://www.tiktok.com/@kirihara_mizuki

     

    <Comment from KAWAII LAB. Producer Misa Kimura>
    “I’m so pleased to announce that a new group is on the way from KAWAII LAB. As always, I’ll do my very best to make KAWAII LAB the best it can be–a place where these girls can be serious about their idol careers and bring audiences the biggest possible thrills. Between IDOLATER, FRUITS ZIPPER, and this new group, I hope you’re looking forward to what’s coming from KAWAII LAB!”

  • Converse Sneakers Now Available with Designs by ASOBISYSTEM Illustrator Kayoubi

    06.December.2022 | FASHION

    White atelier BY CONVERSE, a directly-managed Converse store in Tokyo and Fukuoka, is now offering a lineup of custom shoes featuring designs by illustrator Kayoubi.

    Customers can create an original pair of shoes by choosing from a selection of four different illustrations, which can be placed on the outside of the shoe and the tongue.

    These sneakers will be available online and at White atelier BY CONVERSE locations.

     

  • VTuber Idol Group UNI Mello Releases Digital Single ‘YOUTOPIA’

    27.October.2022 | MUSIC

    The virtual idol group UNI MELLO released its first original song, Find out SHANGRI-LA, in September. On October 26, the members released a second digital single titled YOUTUPIA on all major streaming services.

     

     

    UNI Mello consists of seven members: Kaede, Sekai, You, Amane, Tomoka, Shirafuji, and Shun. Each has a unique hobby and skillset, and the members have continued to grow over the past six months. On the UNI Mello YouTube channel, the members have continuously posted singing videos, as well as daily streams. 

     

    YOUTOPIA tells the story of a normal day that becomes special when you’re with the one you love. It’s a love song filled with gratitude and joy, perfect for when your day needs a pick-me-up. The First Fan Meeting event will be held on November 27, so fans of UNI Mello will want to keep an eye out for more details.

     

    Be sure to keep an eye on what UNI Mello does next by following the group on social media and on YouTube!

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