Swarovski Japan is launching a Christmas campaign this year in collaboration with Jin Akanishi and Ryo Nishikido’s YouTube channel “NO GOOD TV” and fashion magazine ELLE Japon.
Swarovski is an Austrian glass producer founded in 1895 that’s celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. The company’s Swarovski Crystal Business is known for its craftsmanship and innovation, providing crystal glass, jewellery, and accessories to the people of the world since its inception.
As part of Swarovski Japan’s Christmas campaign, it is teaming up with Japanese musicians Jin Akanishi and Ryo Nishikido. This is the first time the company has used male celebrities in its promotions in Japan. Together with the global women’s fashion magazine ELLE Japon, the campaign will promote Swarovski products in the run up to Christmas. A six-page feature will be included in January 2021 issue of ELLE Japon of the two musicians promoting Swarovski’s jewellery, watches, and more.
Jin Akanishi and Ryo Nishikido posted a 14-minute video on their YouTube channel (“NO GOOD TV – Vol. 21”) with behind-the-scenes footage of their ELLE Japon photo shoot as well as other news related to the collaboration with Swarovski.
Exclusive photos of Akanishi and Nishikido which weren’t feature in either the magazine or on YouTube were also officially released on Swarovski’s official LINE account.
Information
Jin Akanishi and Ryo Nishikido Christmas Campaign Collaboration
Official Website: http://swarovs.ki/vl~D
RELATED ENTRIES
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SUNNY ONLY 1 Releases New Single ‘WASH IT’ Co-written by Close Friends and Fellow Musicians
28.August.2023 | MUSIC
On August 16, SUNNY ONLY 1 released her new digital single WASH IT.
In April, the accomplished artist released her first single in two years, So What? SUNNY ONLY 1 is also an active member of the Tokyo-based girls’ creative collective bala, and her previous release Dance like a monkey feat. Mori attracted plenty of attention. A collaboration with close friend Mori from the musical group DONGURIZU, the song was featured on Spotify’s official Electropolis playlist.
WASH IT, concluding the trilogy of solo single releases from SUNNY ONLY 1 this year, was co-written by Kyoichi Mikuriya and Hiroto Sugawara of the band Eiji, along with rapper KOHKI. These artists are close friends of SUNNY, and the track itself is a party tune filled with Afro-funk and disco beats that capture the hustle and bustle of the underground scene. WASH IT was produced by Noah Ings, an up-and-coming producer from London who also worked on SUNNY ONLY 1’s previous release.
[Comment from SUNNY ONLY 1]
“This is the last song of the trilogy. It’s the funkiest song I’ve ever written and I made it while partying with my friends, so I hope you’ll have a listen while you’re vibing and feeling good!”Information
WASH IT – SUNNY ONLY 1 (Digital Single)
Release Date: August 16, 2023
Streaming URL: https://orcd.co/wash_itSpecial Thanks:
Kyoichi Mikuriya (Eiji)
Hiroto Sugawara (Eiji)
KOHKI
SENA
MASAO
yoxen
kawasaki -
Licaxxx’s Tokyo Community Radio Releases First Digital Compilation Album Inspired by the “sessions” Training Program
05.July.2023 | MUSIC
On June 29, SESSIONS COLLECTION VOL. 1 was released. This is the first digital compilation inspired Tokyo Community Radio’s recent training program “sessions.” DJ and Beatmaker Licaxxx runs the online radio platform, and the training sessions have seen incredible success, inspiring new musicians to grow and improve.
“sessions” is a training program focused exclusively on dance music. Participants work closely with DJs and other active music creators to hone their skills and share unique experiences. The main goal of the program is to teach more about current technology and to share real-world examples that can help participants thrive. Sharing actual problems that current artists are facing and how to overcome them is also a popular part of the program.
Club (RDC) and Red Bull, inviting guests to embark on a 3-day/2-night training camp in Izu to hone their DJ and dance music skills. Artists from all over Japan were selected from an open call and gathered to create new works individually or in groups after listening to advice and having discussions with track makers active in several different genres.
A ton of music produced during the “sessions” program is included on TCR’s first 18-track digital compilation album. In addition to the 14 artists that participated, Stones Taro, Carpainter, Pharakami Sanders, and Licaxxx worked with FELINE to create a track as well. This genre-crossing compilation album by the next generation of Japan-based artists is a must-hear for active DJs, and a behind-the-scenes look at the training camp is available on TCR’s official YouTube channel.
TCR will also be hosting events in Tokyo and Osaka this weekend with re:lax, a unit comprised of DJ/producers re:ni and Laksa from the UK. Keep an eye out for more details!
Information
Tokyo Community Radio Digital Compilation Album
SESSIONS COLLECTION VOL. 1
Release Date: June 29, 2023
Streaming URL: https://tokyocommunityradio1.bandcamp.com/album/sessions-collection-vol-1Featured Artists: abentis / Carpainter / ETV / K8 / LICAXXX&FELINE / mah-ble soda / natsumi hirota / NirBorna / Pharakami Sanders / Pine / QUNIMUNE / SEKITOVA / Stones Taro / Syunto / tanakana / Terax / TIMER feat. plan i / yokinist
<About Tokyo Community Radio>
TCR is a distribution platform based in Tokyo that focuses on introducing both local DJs and up-and-coming DJs from around Japan. The program features all musical genres and showcases both DJ mixes and live performances. In featured podcasts, DJs talk about their music, hobbies, and interests, allowing fans the rare chance to learn more about their favorite creators. The station also cooperates with community radio stations in other Asian cities and supports DJs and artists from Asia and beyond when they visit Japan. In addition to regular DJ sessions and podcasts, TCR also collaborates with corporate events, produces music events, and matches DJs to places and brands. -
ATARASHII GAKKO! Releases Legendary ‘OTONABLUE’ Performance from THE FIRST TAKE on Streaming Services
21.June.2023 | MUSIC
On June 16, the girls’ vocal and dance group ATARASHII GAKKO! released OTONABLUE – From THE FIRST TAKE on streaming services.
Originally released in 2020, OTONABLUE has become incredibly popular over the past year, with its ‘neck-dance’ choreography trending on TikTok. With views on the social media site surpassing 2.5 billion, a music video was thrown together and released, pulling in over 20 million views in two months.
On April 7, ATARASHII GAKKO! performed a special version of OTONABLUE on THE FIRST TAKE, commemorating their first time on the program with new choreography. Filmed in a single take, their appearance pulled in 20 million views in record time, becoming the channel’s most popular video of 2023. This special live version is now available to stream.
Information
OTONABLUE – From THE FIRST TAKE / ATARASHII GAKKO! (Digital Single)
Streaming URL: https://linkco.re/6BR95fRV -
SUNNY ONLY 1 Releases ‘Dance like a monkey feat. Mori,’ a Collaboration with DONGURIZU
17.June.2023 | MUSIC
On June 14, SUNNY ONLY 1 released her new single Dance like a monkey feat. Mori.
In April 2023, the artist released So What?, her first single in two years. The well-established creator is also a member of the Tokyo-based girl artists and creators’ collective bala.
The new song features rapper Mori from DONGURIZU, a long-time friend of the group.
Following the electroclash revival heard in her previous work, the new alternative dance track features notes of post-punk and old-school style. Mori brings his distinct style to the song, and listeners are sure to experience the chaotic mood found in the Tokyo Underground scene.
Information
Dance like a monkey feat. Mori – SUNNY ONLY 1 (Digital Single)
Release Date: June 14, 2023
Streaming URL: https://orcd.co/a8b3ke9<Profile>
Mori
Born in 1998, Mori is a rapper with DONGURIZU and also handles the group’s artwork. In January 2023, he released his first solo track YAZAWA composed by Shinichi Osawa. In addition to modeling for C.P. Company, GAP, and other apparel companies, he has appeared on the popular Red Bull programs 64Bars and RASEN. Funny and stylish, the rapper has been amassing more and more fans. Mori also won the top prize in the ‘100 Famous Views of Empathy’ contest hosted by Gekidan Hitori and sponsored by SLUSH-PILE. -
MANON Releases ‘L.M.S.N,’ a Collaboration with NY-based Artist Kyunchi
30.May.2023 | MUSIC
Starting in October 2022, artist MANON released new music for four consecutive months. Continuing her exploration of the HyperPop genre, her new track L.M.S.N feat. Kyunchi is now streaming.
MANON is known for releasing music with up-and-coming artists, and for this new track, she’s collaborated with NY-based HyperPop artist Kyunchi. L.M.S.N was composed by trackmaker Kiraku, who also worked on MANON’s previous release. The song is a Gal anthem, packed with Kiraku’s signature sound and ‘Gal Rap’ performed by MANON and Kyunchi.
Kyunchi
MANON
<Comment from MANON>
“I’ve wanted to collab with Kyunchi for so long, and it’s finally happened.
When I go to parties, I have a habit of being loud and not holding back, so people tend to shoot me these judgmental looks. But I don’t care! I always think “LET’S MAKE SOME NOISE!!” This song is just that–it’s us doing what we want to do at the moment. ⭐️That’s the vibe.
I feel like gals from the 2010s are all about YOLO–they give off this super strong vibe. That’s what I was trying to channel in this track, but then Kyunchi’s bad bitch rap made it so much more intense. The jacket was also inspired by blinged-out images from the 2010s and was made by Kiraku’s friend onumi!
When you hear this song, be sure to MAKE SOME NOISE!!”
Information
L.M.S.N feat. Kyunchi – MANON (Digital Single)
Release Date: May 24, 2023
Streaming URL: https://orcd.co/lmsn
Lyrics: MANON, Kyunchi / Prod.: Kiraku
■Kyunchi Profile
Kyunchi is a New York-based, candy-coated, gender-bending, post-modern, hyperpop, scene kid. Not bound by age, gender, nationality, or religion, the artist debuted in 2019 with Kyunshi Shopping Spree, produced by Ayesha Erotica. In April 2022, they released Mecha Angel Genesis♡, produced by writer syva of Codomo Mental INC. WORLDWIDE☆GIRL feat. nonamera was released on August 31, produced by syva and featuring nonamera on vocals.
Instagram: @kyunchi.jp
Spotify: Kyunchi -
ATARASHII GAKKO! Named as Ambassadors for NIKE Gamma Force
Nike’s Gamma Force line, a modern interpretation of classic 80s sneakers, will be available at ABC-MART and ABC-Mart Online. To celebrate the launch, a new visual and collaborative video featuring the members of ATARASHII GAKKO! have been released.
In the video, the girls are seen performing a flashy dance while wearing shoes from the Gamma Force line. The featured song, SUKI LIEwas featured on the group’s new EP ICHIJIKIKOKU and in standard ATARASHII GAKKO! style, the members express themselves freely while holding absolutely nothing back.
Information
ATARASHII GAKKO! x Gamma Force Bonus Campaign
Those who purchase shoes from the Gamma Force line at ABC-MART stores or online will receive original stickers featuring ATARASHII GAKKO! One sheet will include special edition stickers, including key visuals and illustrations of the members wearing Gamma Force and their signature socks.Special Site
https://www.abc-mart.net/shop/e/e1000650w/*One sticker sheet per purchase will be available while supplies last
*Bonus campaign begins May 11 both in stores and online
*The campaign will end once all stickers are gone -
bala Releases Remix of 1st Single ‘barla’ Featuring BBY NABE
12.May.2023 | MUSIC
In March, the Tokyo-based girl artists and creators’ collective bala released its first single, barla. On April 26, a remixed version of the track featuring BBY NABE was released on streaming services.
The song barla, produced by Shinichi Osawa (Mondo Grosso) and written by Kenmochi Hidefumi (Wednesday Campanella), first dropped on March 8. The song has been well-received for its stylish music video highlighting the unique backgrounds and interests of each member. The remix features BBY NABE, a bilingual rapper who is the same age as the members. His song PINK SWEET was a viral hit, and the artist is known for producing music across several different genres. barla (feat. BBY NABE) is an anthem for the current generation featuring the rapper’s catchy flow over a dance tune that brings back the house sound of the late 90s.
Information
barla (feat. BBY NABE) – bala (Digital Single)
Release Date: April 26, 2023
Streaming URL: https://orcd.co/o6xar5r -
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu to Release ‘CANDY CANDY (Moe Shop Remix), Artist to Perform Solo Concert at Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall in July
28.April.2023 | MUSIC
A Moe Shop Remix of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s legendary song CANDY CANDY, originally released in 2012, will appear on streaming services on April 21.
Moe Shop is a DJ and trackmaker whose one-of-a-kind sound is influenced by French electronica and Japanese pop music. Having amassed a global following, the creator claims to be greatly influenced by Yasutaka Nakata, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s producer.
CANDY CANDY (Moe Shop Remix) is the second remix to be released by the Harajuku star. In 2020, Ninja Re Bang Bang (Steve Aoki Remix) was released to massive fanfare. The new pop tune has a completely different vibe than the original, and fans won’t want to miss it.
Recently, it was announced that Moe Shop would be performing as the opening act for the three U.S. dates of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s POPPP world tour starting in May. The two artists will also be collaborating on a special YouTube Live, allowing fans from around the world to participate in the festivities. The jacket illustration for the single, created by illustrator Natsumi Yoshida, has also been unveiled.
After the world tour concludes, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu will hold a special solo concert on July 15 at the Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall. ‘Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Special Live 2023 ~Midnight Sun~’ will be held to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the venue.
Information
CANDY CANDY (Moe Shop Remix) – Kyary Pamyu Pamyu
Release Date: April 21, 2023
Streaming URL: https://moeshop.fanlink.to/candy-candy-remix-jp<Solo Concert Information>
Celebrating 100 Years: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Special Live 2023 ~Midnight Sun~
Date: July 15, 2023
Venue: Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall
Time: Open at 16:30 / Show starts at 17:30
*No admission for preschool-aged children■Tickets
KPP Club Member Pre-sale: April 17, 18:00 ~ April 24, 23:59
URL: https://kyary.net
Front Block Reserved Seats: ¥9,900 (Tax Included) *Only available to KPP Club members, bonus merchandise included
General Reserved Seats: ¥5,500 (Tax Included)Sponsor: Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall 100th Anniversary Executive Committee
Planning/Production: ASOBISYSTEM Co., Ltd.Contact:
HOT STUFF PROMOTION
050-5211-6077
https://www.red-hot.ne.jp/<World Tour Information>
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu WORLD TOUR 2023 -POPPP-
May 15 – New York|Webster Hall
May 17 – Los Angeles|The Novo
May 19 – Chicago|Anime Central
June 2 – Barcelona|PRIMAVERA SOUND 2023 Parc del Forum
June 5 – Paris|Cabaret Sauvage
June 7 – London|London EartH Hall
June 9 – PRIMAVERA SOUND 2023 Ciudad del RockSpecial Tour Website
https://wt2023.kyary.asobisystem.com/ -
Atarashii Gakko! Appears on Popular YouTube Channel THE FIRST TAKE
12.April.2023 | MUSIC
Atarashii Gakko! took to the stage on THE FIRST TAKE for the first time. The members performed their hit song Otonablue, which has become a major hit on social media for its unique choreography during the chorus.
Since its release, Otonablue has continued to be a hot topic, with the live performance video racking up over 8 million views on YouTube and related TikTok videos pulling in over 400 million views.
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Takuma Usa Appears in Short Drama series ‘Sarashiai, Konna Yoru wa Dare no Sei?’
31.March.2023 | MOVIE
Takuma Usa appears in the new YouTube short drama series Sarashiai, Konna Yoru wa Dare no Sei? (Exposed Love: Who’s to Blame for a Night Like This?)
The romance-focused ensemble drama touches on a wide array of difficult subjects found in today’s society, like adultery, sugar daddies, plastic surgery, friends with benefits, doxxing, betrayal, and redemption.
Takuma Usa, who portrays the host Tsukasa, appears in the third episode.
Information
Sarashiai, Konna Yoru wa Dare no Sei? (Exposed Love: Who’s to Blame for a Night Like This?)
Premiere: March 1, 2023
Streaming: Wednesdays at 20:00 (4 Episodes)
Starring: Yurika Nakamura, Momoko Tanabe, Honoka Murakami, Yuuka Kouri, Naoya Shimizu, etc.Watch on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@dokujyou_sarashiaiOfficial Site
https://dokujyou.com/sarashiai -
HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE, a Collaboration Between Hot Topic & Studio Ghibli, Gets Pop-Up Store at Shinsaibashi PARCO
Last year, the HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE collaboration appeared at AF Gallery in Harajuku from August 10 until August 28, garnering massive acclaim from fans. The collection is now being sold at Shinsaibashi PARCO until March 12, 2023.
HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE is a Studio Ghibli-inspired apparel collection by the popular American counterculture chain Hot Topic. Bringing more Japanese culture to the ongoing Studio Ghibli collaboration launched in 2014, Hot Topic stores began selling original items produced by nine Japanese creators and brands, as well as some original American items produced by Hot Topic’s executive designers.
The lineup of Japan-original items includes T-shirts, tote bags, and other items featuring exclusive artwork by up-and-coming creators. These items depict beloved characters from Studio Ghibli’s works, as well as logos created for the collaboration. Fans won’t want to miss grabbing these unique items!
Details on the Previous HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE Pop-Up Store: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/625747
Information
HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE
Running: February 23 – March 12, 2023
Hours: 10:00-20:00
Venue: Shinsaibashi PARCO B1F Pop-Up Space (1-8-3 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka)
Official Site: https://ghibli-harajukucollective-ec.com
Online Store (Open until March 31, 2023): https://ec.ghibli-harajukucollective-ec.com
HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE Official SNS:
Instagram: @harajuku_collective
(https://www.instagram.com/harajuku_collective)
Twitter: @harajuku_collect (https://twitter.com/harajukucollect)
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Rilakkuma 20th Anniversary Cafe Be Held in Omotesando, Tokyo in March and April
06.March.2023 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD / SPOT
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of Rilakkuma and his adorable friends, the Rilakkuma 20th Anniversary Cafe will open in Omotesando, Tokyo from March 9 until April 16, 2023. You’ll want to come and spend a peaceful time looking back at two decades of everyone’s favorite lazy bear!
The menu features colorful and festive dishes inspired by Rilakkuma, Korilakkuma, Kiiroitori, and Chairoikoguma. The characters express their thanks for 20 successful years, and fans can enjoy floats topped with Rilakkuma and friends wearing ribbons and topped with ice cream, a jelly soda inspired by Chairoikoguma and his friends in the honey forest, and a hot drink inspired by Rilakkuma’s favorite pudding.
Menu
Rilakkuma’s Honey Mustard Hamburger
コリラックマのクリームパスタ
Korilakkuma’s Cream Pasta
Kiiroitori’s Egg Burger
Chairoikoguma’s Cheese Curry
Rilakkuma and Friend’s Celebratory Cake
Congratulatory Flower Parfait
You Can Choose♪ Rilakkuma and Friends Mini Ice Cream
You Can Choose♪ Rilakkuma and Friends Floats
Honey Forest Jelly Soda
Relaxing Pudding Drink
Take-Out Drink Bottle
Original Merch
Acrylic Clip (7 varieties, random)
Acrylic Keychain (5 varieties, random)
Mini-Bottle / Muddler with Charm (4 varieties)
Lunch Tote / Drawstring Bag
Acrylic Stand with Clip / Cork Coaster
Stuffed Animal
In addition, the cafe will offer original goods, special offers, and a Twitter campaign to celebrate Rilakkuma’s 20th anniversary.
Come enjoy the elaborate original menu and goods while sharing memories at this limited time themed cafe!
©2023 San-X Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Information
RILAKKUMA 20th Anniversary Cafe
Venue: BOX cafe&space Omotesando
Running: March 9 – April 16, 2023
Address: Pine Under Flat B1F (5-13-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
Reservation Fee: ¥715 (Tax included) *Reservations include bonuses.
*Reservations can be made for up to four guests per application.Online Shop: https://rilakkuma20th-cafe.jp/online_store/
Sales Open: March 9, 15:00 – April 16, 23:59
(Items will ship starting in early May 2023.)
Official Site: https://rilakkuma20th-cafe.jp