On March 14, ASOBISYSTEM’s idol project KAWAII LAB. held a live event at Spotify O-EAST. The event, titled KAWAII LAB. SESSION ~CANDY TUNE~, saw the first-ever performance from CANDY TUNE, the newest idol group from KAWAII LAB, also known for creating the popular groups FRUITS ZIPPER and IDOLATER.

 

KAWAII LAB. is a new project by ASOBISYSTEM created to introduce Japan’s growing idol culture to the world.

 

FRUITS ZIPPER is one of the most talked-about idol groups in recent memory, with their solo concert shows selling out instantly and their song Watashi no Ichiban Kawaiitokoro pulling in over 690 million views on TikTok. KAWAII LAB also produces IDOLATER, a group known for exploring the boundary of music, fashion, and other unique aspects of culture through an idol perspective.

 

In March, the seven-member idol group CANDY TUNE was announced. Its members include Rino Fukuyama, Mizuki Kirihara, Natsu Minami, Nanako Ogawa, Bibian Murakawa, Shizuka Miyano, and Kotomi Tachibana.

 

Tickets for this show were completely sold out in advance. The packed venue was filled with excitement, with fans looking forward to the live performance far before the show started.

To start, Misa Kimura, a model and talent who serves as the general producer of KAWAII LAB., appeared with FRUITS ZIPPER members Suzuka Chinzei and Runa Nakagawa. Despite the project only being active for one year, she seemed to be filled with incredible emotion at the addition of CANDY TUNE to the lineup, bringing the total number of idols signed to KAWAII LAB to 19.

 

IDOLATER was the first to take the stage, called out by Misa Kimura herself. Dressed in fashionable light blue outfits, the girls immediately grabbed the fan’s hearts with their cool performance of Kesenai…before moving into Endless Summer, Vapor City, Kimi ni MuCHU♡XX, and Mahou no Kagi wo Te ni Iretara in quick succession. The girl’s potential was on full display as they played hit after hit.

 

IDOLATER’s stylish and clean live performance ended with DIAMOND and Endroll wo Mukaeru Mae ni.

When Misa reappeared on stage, she announced that IDOLATER would be holding its anniversary solo concert on April 22 at Spotify O-WEST. Member Fuka Oishi was delighted to be performing at the largest venue in IDOLATER’s history. “I’m so thrilled,” she said.

 

FRUITS ZIPPER took to the stage next, and the venue was immediately illuminated with colorful penlights. The members were greeted with loud applause as the starting track began to play.

 

The group performed RADIO GALAXY first, and the audience’s enthusiasm was palpable as the songs jumped between various genres like a roller coaster ride, from EDM and hip-hop to idol pop and mellow tunes. Continuing into Sekai wa Kimikara Hajimaru, the sweet love song made the audience swoon as they heard the girl’s incredible vocals.

 

Suzuka Chinzei also congratulated CANDY TUNE on its debut during the MC portion of the performance. FRUITS ZIPPER also promised to keep the stage lively until it was their turn to perform at their own debut show.

 

The group then performed Happy Chocolate, a popular song currently trending on TikTok. Their comical and cute choreography spread into the audience where fans mimicked their moves, making it a truly sweet and memorable moment.

 

As the girls began performing the fast-paced song Kanpeki Shugide☆, the mood in the venue took a turn, and things became much more lively. As expected, the group performed the massively-popular track Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro as the finale, and just as Suzuka promised, the audience was all warmed up for CANDY TUNE to finally take the stage!

 

Just as was the case with IDOLATER, another major announcement was made during the MC portion. The first KAWAII LAB Official Fan Club event for FRUITS ZIPPER was announced to take place on April 10 at Shirokane Takanawa SELENE b2. The group’s first live show was originally scheduled to take place at this venue on April 10 last year, but it was postponed due to the pandemic.

Finally, it was time for the new group CANDY TUNE to appear. Misa Kimura took to the stage first “I’m so nervous,” she said to the audience. “Can we get some cheers?”

 

The fans erupted with loud applause, and soon after, the seven members of the group–Rino Fukuyama, Mizuki Kirihara, Natsu Minami, Nanako Ogawa, Bibian Murakawa, Shizuka Miyano, and Kotomi Tachibana–took their first steps onto the stage, ready to share the wonders of Harajuku with the world.

 

Dressed in colorful outfits, they first performed hanamaru, a song written to cheer up anyone who listens to it. The girls were clearly a little nervous, but they danced as hard as they could, obviously doing their very best. As the song blended into Kiss Me Patissier, the audience erupted–it was hard to believe that this was the first time that the song had ever been performed live. The song is one of the most popular tracks from the group’s first album, and its flirty lyrics immediately melted fans’ hearts.

During the MC, Murakawa, a former HKT48 member and veteran idol, spoke to the fans. “Isn’t this venue too full,” she said with a laugh. Each girl introduced herself, offering some insight into why they had become idols and what they hoped to achieve going forward. It seemed that their time chatting had cut through the tension, and they performed Nanairo Prologue in high spirits. As if in sync with the members, the fans’ voltage also rose to a fever pitch, and following the performance of Mikan na Seishun, the audience exploded with thunderous applause.
After all four songs from the group’s first album had been performed, it was revealed that, like the senior groups in KAWAII LAB, CANDY TUNE also had a surprise to reveal. On the big screen, it was announced that CANDY TUNE’s first solo live performance would be held at Spotify O-WEST on June 27. The members immediately shouted with joy.

 

“Aren’t you full yet,” Murakawa asked the audience, before announcing one more song.

 

CANDY TUNE performed hanamaru again, but unlike the first time, a music video produced in secret for the occasion played on the screen. Sounds of surprise and excitement immediately erupted from those in the audience.

 

The audience’s voltage was at its highest during this performance, which was synchronized with the music video featuring the members in cute cheerleader outfits and a picnic scene that their friendship with one other. Although it was their first time on stage together, the seven members showed as much poise and dignity as their seniors.

 

At the end, each member shared a message with their fans. “I have a bad habit of second-guessing my own happiness. There have been so many times in my life when I wonder if I should be as happy as I am–but right now, I’m so incredibly overjoyed,” said Fukuyama.

 

“I was so nervous before we got here,” said Kirihara. “But when I saw all of your faces, I knew from the bottom of my heart that I had made the right choice to become an idol!”

 

“Even if I’m reborn, I hope to stand on this same stage again,” said Minami while crying.

 

“I didn’t really feel like an idol until today, and I was so afraid to stand up here in front of a packed audience,” said Ogawa. “I never thought I’d be an idol,” echoed Tachibana. Both showed intense appreciation for the countless fans that had gathered at the venue.

 

“I will always cherish this moment,” said Miyano. “I hope to make many more memories in the future!”

 

“I never thought I could care for people so quickly after meeting them,” said Murakawa, shedding a few tears. “I have so much love and affection for everyone, and I want the seven of us to keep working hard to share Harajuku with the world. Standing here now, I know that we can become an idol group loved around the globe!”

 

After each group had finished their performances, all 19 idols from all three KAWAII LAB groups stood on the same stage together.

As a final surprise, Misa Kimura announced that KAWAII LAB. SESSION would be held on June 12 at Zepp Shinjuku, a venue scheduled to open in April. “I’m so excited that we get to perform at Zepp,” said FRUITS ZIPPER member Yui Sakurai.

 

With excitement in the venue still building, the final performance and the long-awaited collaboration began. All 19 members formed a circle and began to perform FRUITS ZIPPER’s breakout hit Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro. Fans in the audience were permitted to record during this part of the concert, and after the show concluded, countless videos were posted to social media sites.

 

A project to shoot a TikTok video of Happy Chocolate with the audience also took place at the end of the event. FRUITS ZIPPER member Mana Manaka gave a brief explanation of the choreography before taking a video of the fans gathered at the venue. The night ended as the idols and fans danced together.

 

KAWAII LAB is continuing to produce cutting-edge idols ready to be shared with the world. With the addition of CANDY TUNE, the future is looking bright, and fans will want to watch out for what’s coming next.

Text: Masatoshi Mayuzumi
Photo: Shinsuke Hayashi / Miki Higashi

 

■Setlist

[IDOLATER]
Kesenai…(short ver.)
Endless Summer
Vapor City
Kimi ni MuCHU♡XX
Mahouno Kagiwo Teniiretara
DIAMOND
Endrollwo Mukaeru Maeni

 

[FRUITS ZIPPER]
RADIO GALAXY
Sekaiwa Kimikara Hajimaru
Happy Chocolate
Kanpeki Shugide☆
Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro

 

[CANDY TUNE]
hanamaru
Kiss Me Patissier
Nanairo Prologue
Mikanna Seishun
hanamaru (MV.ver)

 

[KAWAII LAB.]
Watashi no Ichiban Kawaiitokoro

Following the success of the idol groups IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER, KAWAII LAB., a project created to introduce Japan’s growing idol culture to the world, has revealed the new group CANDY TUNE! Just as candy comes in a variety of flavors and shapes, each member of CANDY TUNE has their own unique personality and passion. Keeping KAWAII LAB’s goal of bringing Harajuku to the world at the forefront of its activities, this idol group is ready to perform its pop tunes for audiences around the globe.

 

The group’s name was created to convey gentleness, harmony, and sweet melodies, and on March 7, the debut album from these new idols hit all major streaming services. The titular CANDY TUNE is filled with powerful pop tracks already capturing the hearts of listeners around the world.

 

In CANDY TUNE’s first appearance in the KAWAII LAB. Report series, we interviewed the members about their upcoming debut concert, KAWAII LAB. SESSION ~CANDY TUNE~. Are they ready to take to the stage?

 

-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)

Thankfully, I’ve been able to interact with fans even before our debut. I feel so happy when I see people’s words of support and hear about fans keeping track of new information coming out about CANDY TUNE each day. I hope I can cheer everyone up, even if it’s just a little bit. Through CANDY TUNE, I’ll make many dreams come true and devote myself to becoming someone’s hope in this world!”

 

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

 

Shizuka Miyano

“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!

In March 2023, a new idol group from KAWAII LAB will continue to share Japan’s growing idol culture with fans around the world.

 

Following both IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER, the new group is named CANDY TUNE. The name is meant to evoke the image of both kindhearted girls along with catchy melodies and harmonies. KAWAII LAB. will continue to focus on its concept of promoting Harajuku culture to the world.

 

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.

 

All seven members of CANDY TUNE were officially announced.

 

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!”

 

Twitter: @rino_ct1224
Instagram: @rinomaru_
TikTok: @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!”

 

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

 

 

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!”

 

Twitter: @natsu_ct0317
Instagram: @/nattanntan
TikTok: @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!”

 

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

 

 

Bibian Murakawa

“My name is Bibian Murakawa, and I’ll soon be making my debut as a member of CANDY TUNE. I’m excited to show everyone how much I’ve grown during my last seven and a half years as an idol!

I’ll do my best to make my dream of designing apparel come true, along with supporting the dreams of all the members! I hope you’ll support us!

All seven members are incredibly powerful and skilled, so be sure to look forward to our debut concert and all other live shows in the future. Together, we’ll create the most beautiful view. I’m sure you’ll find a favorite member soon!” ❤

 

Twitter: @bibian_ct1203
Instagram: @murakawabibiann
TikTok: @murakawabibiann
YouTube: @murakawabibiann99

 

 

Shizuka Miyano

“Hello! I’m Shizuka Miyano, a member of KAWAII LAB’s third idol group CANDY TUNE!

I’m very much looking forward to starting in a new environment, and I’m having a wonderful time spending my days with the members and staff. I’d like to challenge myself in both my idol career and in other new jobs so that I can share my happiness with as many people as possible going forward. We’ll strive every day to be the best group we can be, and to give back to those who support us! We’ll always be grateful!

We appreciate your support!”

 

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

 

 

Kotomi Tachibana

“I spend each and every day thankful for the people who are allowing me to do this–those who have always supported me, the staff, my family, and the other wonderful members.

Going forward, I’ll devote myself to repaying everyone’s kindness, and I hope to become a person who can move your heart.

Let’s share tons of fun and happy times together!

While I’m still very much a novice, I won’t forget my dream, and I hope to progress little by little. Please give me your support!”

 

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

 

FRUITS ZIPPER held the final performance of FRUITS ZIPPER 1st LIVE TOUR 2023 -WINTER- ♡BE AT THE HEART♡ on February 12, 2023 at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA.

 

FRUITS ZIPPER debuted on April 24, 2022. The group’s song Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro skyrocketed in popularity after its release on April 29 of last year, becoming a huge hit on TikTok and one of the most popular tracks in the idol world.

 

Much like the numerous festivals FRUITS ZIPPER appeared in during the summer of 2022, as soon as the concert ended, the idol fans packed into the venue quickly dispersed as if a storm had come through.

 

The group’s first tour was announced in October 2022. The announcement that there would be a male-only show and a female-only show was a surprise to many female fans, and two weeks later it was announced that the Osaka venue would be changed to Namba Hatch due to huge ticket sales. Soon after, it was announced that the tour finale would be held at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA.

 

The difficulty of organizing a tour for a new idol group and attracting fans seemed clear, but the shows at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA and Namba Hatch managed to sell out well before the tour began, creating a ton of buzz in the idol world.

LINE CUBE SHIBUYA was close to overflowing, and the live soundtrack was created by trackmaker YUC’e for this tour. As the live title ♡BE AT THE HEART♡ suggests, the emotion and excitement in the venue continued to grow with every heartbeat.

 

Following the opening track, FRUITS ZIPPER appeared on stage to perform the song RADIO GALAXY, also by YUC’e. The tour finale opened with this beloved track that perfectly expresses the group’s NEW KAWAII concept.

 

Following this, the group performed the new song Welcome to the ♡ Furuppa!, a track that introduces each member. Performed for the first time on this tour, it’s a great way to open a concert and get the audience hyped and up to speed.

 

The members introduced themselves during the MC, expressing their thoughts about the concert and sharing their gratitude to the packed house. While the members were nervous, Karen Matsumoto was smiling as usual. “I’ll do my best,” she said with a smile.

 

Following the MC, the group continued with well-known tracks like Kimi no Akarui Mirai wo Oikakete, skyfeelan, Re→TRY & FLY, and We are Frontier.

 

After a video was played, Yui Sakurai’s solo part in the song Sekai wa Kimi kara Hajimaru drew the audience’s attention to the stage. Performed during this tour, the song Zutto, Zutto, Zutto shared FRUITS ZIPPER’s kawaii vibe.

During the next MC statement, FRUITS ZIPPER began a special corner seen on Atsumare☆Furuppa!, a stream available once a month on OPENREC.tv to subscribers only. Titled ‘The Valentine’s Day Heart-Pounding Phrase Contest,’ the members shared their most romantic and heartwarming lines with the audience. For those who were unable to attend the show, be sure to tune into Atsumare☆Furuppa!

 

As the concert continued, the audience waved their towels in the air along with Furefure Summer! and Kanpeki shugi de☆, both staples at FRUITS ZIPPER live shows. The group’s anthem Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro began to play, summoning heart-shaped messages to fall from the ceiling and rain down on fans.

 

The final song performed was Happy Chocolate, which was just released on February 1. The song was created to become a standard Valentine’s Day track for Gen Z and has already become a smash hit on TikTok.

 

FRUITS ZIPPER appeared on stage for an encore following seemingly endless clapping. The members took turns chatting about anything on their minds, with many of the girls shedding some well-earned tears. “From Harajuku to the world! Please continue to follow us,” Luna Nakagawa cried out to the crowd.

 

For the encore, the group performed the never-before-heard song Cho Medetai Song ~Konna ni Shiawase de Iinokana?~ (The Super Joyful Song ~Is It Okay to Be This Happy?~), created by Yamamoto Sho and Gento Miyano.

 

The tour’s finale concluded with a second performance of Happy Chocolate.

 

During the last MC, the members announced that they would be holding a solo concert in Taiwan. An official fan club for KAWAII LAB. was also announced, along with a FRUITS ZIPPER first anniversary concert to be held on May 4 at Toyosu PIT and on May 26 at Namba Hatch.

 

After this tour finale at LINE CLUB SHIBUYA and the group’s first-anniversary concert announcements, I could only think one thing–” It’s only been a year?!”

 

It’s clear that FRUITS ZIPPER is only getting started. Be sure to follow them as they continue to take the idol world by storm in 2023.

Text: Mizuki Hasegawa

Photo: Yuuna Yoshimori

 

FRUITS ZIPPER 1st Anniversary Photo Book

Tokyo News, the publisher of B.L.T and other popular TV magazines, will release a photobook celebrating the first anniversary of FRUITS ZIPPER on April 24, 2023!

 

FRUITS ZIPPER is a 7-member idol group that debuted in April 2022 under the concept “from Harajuku to the World.” The group’s second single Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro became a massive hit on TikTok, pulling in over 600 million views. Having become incredibly popular, the group’s first solo tour in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka in February sold out at all venues, including LINE CUBE SHIBUYA and Namba Hatch. A photobook commemorating the first year of FRUITS ZIPPER will be on sale in April.

 

FRUITS ZIPPER Live in Taiwan 2023

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.

FRUITS ZIPPER released the new song Happy Chocolate on February 1, 2023. Happy Chocolate was written by Shou Yamamoto, who previously wrote the group’s smash-hit second single Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, which currently has over 600 million views on TikTok.

 

In this new report, we sat down to interview the members about their new song Happy Chocolate. Read on to see more about the new track’s cute choreography, highlights of the lovey-dovey music video, and much more!♡

–What kind of a song is Happy Chocolate?

 

Luna: “This Valentine’s Day song is packed with tons of cuteness. It’s one of those songs you’ll catch yourself humming to and can’t get out of your head! My favorite lyrics are “I want to reward myself with my love,” and “I want to reward myself starting today!” I want to reward myself every day for my hard work.”

 

–What were your first impressions of the song?

 

Amane: “I thought it sounded so cute and happy. When I heard that it was a Valentine’s Day song, I was shocked that it was already that time of year!”

 

Mana: “I couldn’t get the chorus out of my head, and even before I learned the whole thing, I was humming it constantly. I instantly thought that when the song was released, it would be stuck in people’s heads for a while!”

 

 

–The Happy Chocolate dance is super cute. What do you focus on to make it extra adorable?

 

Karen: “The video is full of us eating chocolate, and the trick making that extra cute is to focus on how you take a bite!”

 

Noel: “I think it’s pretty easy to make a dance cute if you dance with lots of chocolate in mind! When you’re dancing, think about how sweet chocolate is, how much you love it, and how yummy it is! ♡”

 

 

–Tell us your favorite part of the Happy Chocolate music video!

 

Yui: “I hope everyone enjoys this music video with all of us eating chocolate together!
There is a cutout with a hashtag somewhere, so be sure to take a look at it and see what it says.🥰 Personally, I hope you don’t miss the face about 3 seconds before the end of the music video!” ♡ (Laugh)

 

Suzuka: “I love the scenes where everyone is dressed up cooks making chocolate.♡
In the first take, everyone was really cooking without paying attention to the camera. It was a real FRUITS ZIPPER moment (laugh).
Our outfits are so cute too! ♡♡
Also, look at the rings on my fingers, they are so cute!”

 

 

–Do you have any messages for the fans?

 

Yui: “I think this song is an interesting and extremely cute pop song. I think FRUITS ZIPPER shows off so many kinds of kawaii♡ It’s NEW KAWAII!” ♡ (Laugh)

Happy Chocolate is a wonderful song that will not only make your heart pound this Valentine’s Day, but will also bring you plenty of happiness!

Please listen to it! 🥰”

 

Karen: “Sweet, sweet, sweet, sweet, please fall in love with Karen!”

 

 

Happy Chocolate will be performed live for the first time at the FRUITS ZIPPER 1st One Man Tour 2023 -WINTER- ♡BE AT THE HEART♡ concert. Only general tickets are on sale for the expanded capacity show at Namba Hatch in Osaka on February 5 and the tour’s final show at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA in Tokyo on February 12, so grab them while you can!

The groovy 5-member funk, soul, and disco idol group Philosophy no Dance has been
chosen to perform the opening track for the highly-anticipated Ayakashi Triangle anime
adaptation. The group has been wowing music fans with its philosophical lyrics and comical dance moves. This impressive new track titled Neppu wa Ruten-suru is now available to
stream on all major platforms.

 

Ayakashi Triangle was created by Kentaro Yabuki, known for his previous work To Love Ru. The series follows Matsuri Kazamaki, an exorcist ninja, as he attempts to defend his
childhood friend from evil spirits.

Composed by SoichiroK/Nozomu.S and with lyrics written by Ameko Kodama, Neppu wa
Ruten-suru is a catchy pop track perfect for capturing the worldview of the series.
Beginning with an incredible guitar riff, the five members’ voices intertwine with one
another in an incredibly unique way.

 

A non-credit version of the opening theme has also been uploaded to the Aniplex YouTube
channel.

©矢吹健太朗／集英社・あやかしトライアングル製作委員会

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__

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!”

FRUITS ZIPPER will hold a solo concert at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA on February 12, 2023. The idol group’s representative track Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro has pulled in over 600 million plays on TikTok. 

 

The group debuted in April 2022 with the concept ‘from Harajuku to the world.’ Within their first year, FRUITS ZIPPER has attracted fans from around the world, holding their first overseas event in Thailand in October.

On December 31, the girls took to the stage in Tainan, Taiwan for the Tainan Christmas and New Year’s Eve Party. Many popular Taiwanese artists, including W0LF(S), the Korean idol group EPEX, and Aaron Yan from the boy band Fahrenheit performed at the event which attracted over 100,000 people.

Aaron Yan announced FRUITS ZIPPER as they headed to the stage and the audience quickly burst into excited cheers. While many in the audience had never heard of the idol group before, their curiosity was piqued by the sound of local fans. 

After performing RADIO GALAXY, the members introduced themselves one by one in Chinese, much to the delight of the audience. 

The group then performed Sekaiwa Kimikara Hajimaru. The music video for the song was uploaded to YouTube on December 25 and has pulled in over 60,000 views to date. Soap bubbles floated and sparkled throughout the venue during the song, and to show their cool side, the girls then switched to We are Frontier, a fan favorite.

Aaron reappeared for the next MC section, interviewing the FRUITS ZIPPER members. “People in Taiwan are so incredibly kind,” said Noel Hayase. “They have been so nice to me and it’s made me so happy.” When asked how she felt about so many people in the audience knowing the song Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, Suzuka Chinsei answered with a smile. “We’re so happy that so many people love FRUITS ZIPPER and our music. You’ve given us so much love, and we’ll keep giving that love back through our music. We want to reach the whole world, the whole universe!” She finished by saying “I love you” in Chinese. 

As expected, the girls finished their set by performing the song Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro. When the familiar intro began playing, the audience erupted in cheers, and fans danced together during the chorus. Again, soap bubbles filled the venue and the audience was transformed to match FRUITS ZIPPER’s kawaii style. As the song came to a close, the girls said goodbye in Chinese. 

The event was broadcast live on the Taiwanese TV channel TVBS and was streamed live on YouTube, pulling in 30,000 viewers during FRUITS ZIPPER’s performance.

 

Only eight months following their debut, FRUITS ZIPPER performed live in front of 100,000 people, with 70,000 in attendance and 30,000 viewing virtually. Given their incredible success in Taiwan, 2023 is sure to be a big year for these budding idols!

 

Photo: Harry Huang

Culture-Holic group IDOLATER is known for exploring the boundary of music, fashion, and other unique aspects of culture through an idol perspective. 

 

Last time, we chatted with the members about their new costumes. Today, we sat down to discuss the newest artist photo. 

 

All About IDOLATER’s New Outfits:https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/664662

 

 

―Tell us about shooting the new artist photo!

Ririka: The image was shot by the ocean, and I think it really compliments the new outfits!

 

Ayu: This was shot at Kujukuri Beach in Chiba. It was the first time we’ve shot something outside Harajuku, and it was so fun to take the bus with everyone and eat lunch together…it felt like a field trip! (Laugh)

 

―It’s a simple shot. That’s rare for an idol group.

Ayu: It is! The sky and the beach really matched our new costumes. It looks so stylish.

 

Fuka: The photo is cool and fashionable, which suits our new look!

I think it’s hard to find an idol artist photo with such a perfect distance between the camera and the members. It really implies that an idol isn’t only cute, but also in vogue and cool. That’s what IDOLATER is going for.

 

―Were there any difficulties during shooting?

Yukino: It was super cold shooting so close to the ocean. I had a really hard time, probably because it was my first time with my stomach showing, and my tummy gets cold easily! Honestly, the hardest part was starting the day at 5:30AM. But it was still fun shooting at Kujukuri Beach, including the trip itself!

 

Kurumi: It was my first time on an ocean shoot, so I was worried about getting my outfit dirty! I walked more carefully than usual. It was cloudy when we started shooting, but it started to clear up, which made it hard for me to open my eyes because it got so bright.

 

 

―Do you have a message for the fans?

Yukino: Thank you so much for supporting us! I’ve received so many wonderful compliments on the new artist photo from fans, and I’m glad you like our new costumes and makeup. I think it turned out well, and I hope you’ll keep cheering us on going forward!

 

Kurumi: What do you think of the new photo? It’s different from the last one, isn’t it? I hope you could see a new side of us. We’ll keep showing you tons of unique parts of ourselves in the future!

 

Ririka: Thank you so much for your support. 

This is my first new outfit since joining IDOLATER, and I hope it shows off both the cool and the cute aspects of the group. Please keep cheering me on!

This is the last in the IDOLATER interview series for 2022.

 

Look forward to more IDOLATER content from MOSHI NIPPON in 2023!

 

 

The Metaverse Music Festival, a virtual event organized by the global Web3 platform Decentraland, took place starting on November 10, 2022, featuring a number of Japanese artists. 

 

FRUITS ZIPPER was one of the performing acts, appearing on the MetaTokyo stage on November 11 and November 12.

According to data from MetaTokyo, a total of 20,000 viewers from 101 countries around the world watched the performances, including those from the United States, Canada, Japan, Spain, Germany, and Brazil.

This spring, the idol group FRUITS ZIPPER released the track Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, which racked up over 600 million views on TikTok. The music video has amassed over 5.5 million views on YouTube, and despite having just debuted, the girls performed at all major idol festivals over the summer.

 

In November, the group’s second solo concert at Shibuya WWW X was a major success. In February 2023, the girls will begin the FRUITS ZIPPER 1st LIVE TOUR 2023 WINTER scheduled to conclude at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA on February 12. The group will also perform at a New Year’s Eve event in Tainan, Taiwan. Keep an eye out for them in 2023!