Fujimoto Miki Friday'd Yet Again [UPDATED]

This just in. Saw this on WHG after I logged on.

Article title: Fujimoto Miki "Couple Picture in Passionate Love inside a Car"

[ Source ]

Not AGAIN?!

It's bad enough she got caught dating comedian Shouji Tomoharu by Friday and had to resign from Morning Musume. And after she remained non-active post-resignation, she is discovered dating by Friday again.

But it should be no big deal by now, since she is not in Morning Musume. But why repeat the scoop if it was the same guy she's dating? Was it a different guy this time? Was it to report the development of her dating stages with her boyfriend?

There was another article highlighted in WHG where Mikitty supposedly was asked for out-of-court settlement/compensation from an ex-boyfriend. I quickly brushed it off thinking that it can very well be baseless, and could be referring to an old news by BUBKA where some pictures of her with a guy was taken before she went into showbiz. Now... now, I'm not so sure, I wish I have my hands on that article to know more.

EDIT 02:26 A.M. : Okay I found that news article - it's gossip material. May be true, may be not. But it's not Mikitty asking for money, it's her older brother. Moreover, it's more closer to "extorting" rather than "asking". I don't know if this worth blogging about or not. But in any case, it may not be related to this Friday scoop.



EDIT 03:47 A.M. : Okay, found more information and I feel better now. It's the same guy, Shouji Tomoharu.
Apparently, an American car was spotted at the Shibuya station on a weekday (driver is Shouji), and Mikitty was spotted emerging from the busy crowd and entered the car casually. The couple then proceeded to TSUTAYA to buy some Wii games (Shouji bought Super Mario Bros) and then he drove back to his house with her. It was noted that Mikitty's workload has decreased since the discovery of her dating relationship. But she had begun her voice-training to prepare her next job.

And that's it. No big deal.
Gosh... why can't a girl shop some video game in peace? "Passionate Love" my ass! (>_<;)

So there's absolutely nothing to worry about. I know I wouldn't. Give Mikitty a break already. It's not like she's not allowed to date now..... I mean, she's allowed to date, right? (-_-;)
And I must commend her on her casualness, and that she did exactly what she said she would do in her final Young Town Doyoubi radio episode - that she would continue seeing Shouji. That's good ol' vintage Miki-sama for you. (^_^)/

Some pics:


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Romance of the Wotagei ~ ヲタ芸のロマンス

In the beginning, there was Japan. Then the Japanese created "idols". And for a time, it was good... RRRIIPPPP!!!

Okay, enough of the Animatrix reference, but I swear its soundtrack was playing my head while I was typing this post. ^_^

Why I did create this post for such an old topic? Because I have recently discovered that there is wotagei in my neighbourhood. Check this out, this culture is now in Malaysia!!



Man, I didn't think it was possible~~~~ Obviously I was wrong... (^_^;)

According to fellow blogger Artszfar of Haromoni.net, the guys read from this blog about the time when visited a karaoke centre called Yumekukan in Plaza Mont Kiara. Then they gathered their army and their Morning Musume T-Shirts, booked a room and did the Wotagei. (Funny, because that karaoke centre was at the ground floor of the building where my office is located. How did I miss it? Haha~~~! ^_^)


Well anyways, "what IS wotagei?". For the benefit of those who don't know yet, it's a unique Japanese culture where a group of concert goers would include hand-clapping, cheers and dance routines during a song performance by their favourite idols. It serves to increase the tension of the song and as a way for the fans to show their love and support to the performers. As this culture was a trademark for wotas (Morning Musume otaku), it was aptly named "wotagei" (lit. "the art of wota").



The discovery of this culture began when the performers and concert staff started to notice some fans spinning around while jumping during concerts. Further investigations found their answers in Akibahara, the material haven for wotas. In fact they are an organised group of people, and have set up headquarters and clubs in many cities in Japan. (Kinda like the mafia. ^_^)

This culture is arguably exclusive only to Hello! Project, though it should be noted that the wotagei has already extended to other acts such as AKB48. Generally, many still believe that this form of art is born out of Hello! Project concerts. Out of the many H!P songs, the wotagei is most closely affiliated to Fujimoto Miki solo hit "Romantic Ukare Mode". But it need not necessarily be only for Mikitty's song, any other (preferably up-beat) songs is just as good.

Today, this culture has travelled across the oceans and has been embraced by many international wotas. At the top of this post, the Malaysian wotas are enjoying themselves, forming an (unofficial) H!P Fan Club.

A while ago I saw a video clip of a bunch of guys in Mexico singing "Joshi Kashimashi Monogatari" in a subway train and another clip of the same guys doing the wotagei on the train. (Annoying the hell out of the other passengers obviously ^_^). Now we have a properly organised Mexico H!P F.C. doing the deed in front of the bronze Angel of Independence statue.



I'm thinking that some these people have probably been to Japan, maybe stayed there for some time, and later brought the culture back to their home country.
So I'm pretty sure other countries may have adopted the wotagei as well, especially Taiwan, Hongkong and Korea.

As for me,..... I do not know how do it and most certainly did not practice the wotagei. I wanted to say that I'm too old for that kind of action, but suddenly remembered that some of the Japanese wotas are over 30 or pushing 40. I guess my way of being a fan is different...

Personally I think it's okay to show your support to your favourite H!P idol in whatever way you wish, whether it's the wotagei way or the common way. Some of you may think it's a bit extreme, but I look at it as being the most basic and pure way of showing love not in words, but in "actions". Just remember that it does not apply to every single concert. Imagine doing the wotagei in a Beyonce Knowles or Westlife concert... (^0^)


\\(^0^) Urya~ Oi!! (^0^)// Urya~ Oi!! \\(^0^) Urya~ Oi!! (^0^)// Urya~ Oi!!

Peace^_^
>> Read the rest of this article

HNPH, Lost Months - Prologue and H!P Incidents Flashback

Here's to catch up on old(er) news while I was on a break, I do feel that I need to comment on some of the happenings. Not all of them of course, life goes on, and I'm sure there are more incidents to come.



Commenter anna provided a list for me to look into. Some I know, some I didn't. These I do not know ...

- forming of duet Kira☆Pika, Kusumi Koharu and Hagiwara Mai
(^_^)b~~ Yay! Maimai!!

- Aibon's MOM going nude
(o_o;) Good Lord... please have mercy on me eyes...

- Athena & Robikerottsu, formed with Gaki-san, Mittsi, Sato and Saki
(^o^)/~~~ YAY!! Gaki-san!

- Formation of group 'Buono!', formed with Momoko, Miyabi and Airi
(^_^)/ That's great! Though it seemed like 2nd 'Aa!' with Momoko replacing Reina...

-Berryz and C-ute's recent success
(^_^)? Nice!!... but what is it? Sales? Concert attendance record?

- Melon Kinenbi's infamous PV
(o_o)? What happened...? Did they strip off their clothes?

- Tsunku Jr./NG Project
(O_O;)! WHAT?! So it was true?!

- THE Possible graduated from H!P Eggs
(^_^) Aww.... I was gettin' ready to warm up to them. Wait... they'll still be around, right?



On the negative note, the word "scandal" takes on a wider scope by now, so it will called 'Incidents' from now on. Look at what incidents we have so far ->

- Yoshizawa Hitomi's brother died in vehicular accident.
- Kago Ai discovered working intern, caught smoking again, spent the night in onsen trip with old guy... and subsequently fired.
- Hello Morning has transformed to HaroMoni, changes in concept and style.
- 2 Chinese girls accepted to Morning Musume as "exchange students"
- Tsuji Nozomi got sick and dropped out from theater, later discovered that she was actually pregnant, got married with the father of the baby. Currently on a break till baby is born. It was said that the two were introduced to each other through Yaguchi Mari, though they denied of this.
- Shortly after being appointed as Momusu leader, Fujimoto Miki discovered to be in a relationship with a comedian, and subsequently fir-... err I mean, resigned from Morning Musume. Later, rumours surfaced that Fujimoto and her guy were introduced to each other by Konno Asami in her birthday party.
- Konno Asami returns to Hello! Project to join Gatas futsal and musical group

The above stuff that ones I covered, here are some things what happened during my break.

- Iida Kaori got pregnant and married the baby's father - an acquaintance of Tsunku.
- Abe Natsumi got driver license, promoted traffic safety. but soon after ran down a motorcycle in an accident.

And of course the latest news about Goto Maki ->
- Goto Maki got sick and dropped off from concert tour and afterwards rumoured to be pregnant (after Tsuji's case, 'acute-gastroenteritis' is another word for pregnancy ^_^ ). Then her brother got caught committing crime stealing cables, then Gomaki subsequently announced her resignation. [Edited 12:11 p.m.]


Then, found more stuff from the ever-resourceful WHG. Things like:

- Ex-member of Momusu, Ishiguro Aya divorced, husband Shinya wanted to reform LUNA SEA.
- Low attendance in H!P summer concert in Saitama Super Arena
- The A-Team (Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Team), was jeered in live promos. In Oricon chart, A-Team's 2nd single lost to AKB48 by double sales.
- Gatas music group lost to PERFUME in Oricon chart.

I have no way of confirming these sightings and stats, though. Sales figures prolly retrieved from Oricon which is, of course, not really accurate.

Welp... *stretching arms and cracking knuckles*
... time to go to work!

*Commencing search-and-blog mode* (^_^)v


>> Read the rest of this article

It's Showtime! Konno Asami Back to Fuel Hello! Project!!

This news is too good to not be documented real time. Incidentally, my boss is not around yet anyways... ^_^ (Special thanks to Anna for the headsup!)

And yes, ladies and gentlemen! Konno Asami who has graduated from Morning Musume last year in July, is back with Hello! Project. After so many speculations of whether Konkon is coming back to showbiz, it's finally official. (^_^)/

UFA has released a comment saying that it was Konkon's wish to rejoin and play in Gatas after she is able to enter the university of Keio University Shonan Fujisawa Campus. Her first stage for a comeback will be held at Nagoya Century Hall with Hello! Project tour concert in July.

Konkon on the other hand, have commented that "Although I am worried if I am able to balance (Gatas) with my studies, but I am determined to try my best to make it happen. To all the people who have given their support through my entry to the university, I am most eager to meet them again. However, if there is a conflict between Gatas and studies, I wish to give priority to my studies first."

She will be participating in a single, performed by a combination of Gatas Brilhantes Futsal Club and some members from Hello! Project Eggs.

The single will be titled "Nari hajimeta koi no Bell ~ 鳴り始めた恋のBell" (Meaning: The bells of love have begun to ring) and produced by none other than Tsunku. This single will also be the image song for Dralion Cirque Du Soleil circus troupe. This will be the second "supporter song" written for Dralion, the first being "Bokura ga Ikiru My Asia" by the Morning Musume A-Team. I expect the song style would be similar, depending who is doing the song arrangement. It will be released on the 22nd of August.

The line-up are as follows:

Name	Group	Gatas Tag
Yoshizawa Hitomi	Former Morning Musume	Gatas☆Spirit
Ishikawa Rika	Viyuuden	Full Throttle☆Attacker
Satoda Mai	Country Musume	Ultima☆Register
Korenaga Miki	Hello! Project Eggs	Miss☆Dream Maker
Konno Asami	Former Morning Musume	Little☆Braver
Mano Erina	Hello! Project Eggs
Noto Arisa	Hello! Project Eggs
Sawada Yuri	Hello! Project Eggs
Sengoku Minami	Hello! Project Eggs
Mutoh Mika	Hello! Project Eggs

Funny though, Konkon is still listed in the Skylark site as one of the graduated members. Are they not going to update that page yet?
Players of Gatas (senior) that are not involved are -> Fujimoto Miki, Tsuji Nozomi and Shibata Ayumi. I can understand why Fujimoto and Tsuji are not involved, but Shibata? Actually, I have my speculations, but that is another story.


On topic, I'm ecstatic! My favourite extracurricular-all-rounder, slow-eater, "My Pace" idol Pon-chan is back!! I was so devastated last year when she graduated, and the feeling of never going to ever see her again is one that I cannot describe. This exciting news is truly an upside event, giving us a break from all those scandals and stuff. What's more, we get to see more of the Hello! Project Eggs in action (Which I hope won't be just doing backup dancing). Looking forward to it!



Another thing.... For those who haven't heard, apparently Konkon has dyed her hair blonde since entering the university. In other words, had become a real Gyaru. We don't have pictures of that yet, but I have been hearing stories from eyewitnesses seeing her in blonde. Let's see how blonde it got, or if she is going to dye it with another colour again. I wonder if she has put on some weight as well....... BUT anyways, I think she should keep the blonde hair, so that she can be inducted into Gyaruru. Now THAT is cool! (*Bites green apple*)


Lastly, some videos for your enjoyment.

Alo-Hello Konno Asami. Yup, she can play basketball too. I'm sure fellow ballers will recognise that is one good lookin' shoot and follow-through~~~! (^o^)/


Gatas Brilhantes FC Highlights - Konno Asami's last game and graduation. This small girl can HUSTLE! (^_^)b


News from Sanspo

ハロプロに“久々”ハッピーニュース！元モー娘。紺野が電撃復帰

　大学受験のため昨年７月にモーニング娘。を卒業し、芸能界を引退した紺野あさ美（２０）が電撃復帰することが１８日、発表された。ハロー！プロジェクトのフットサルチーム「ガッタス　ブリリャンチスＨ．Ｐ．」が８月にＣＤデビューするのに合わせて、メンバーに復活。７月１５日のハロプロ名古屋公演で１年ぶりにステージに立つ。紺野は「学業との両立で頑張ります」と張り切っている。

◇

　昨年１２月に慶応大学環境情報学部に合格し、４月から神奈川・藤沢キャンパスに通う女子大生、紺野が芸能界に電撃復帰することになった。

　所属事務所によると、モー娘。を卒業する際、紺野から「大学に合格できたら、ガッタスでフットサルを続けさせてほしい」との強い申し入れがあったという。そこで、慶大に無事入学し、順調な学生生活を送る紺野と話し合いを重ね、復帰が決まった。

　活動の場は彼女の申し入れ通り、フットサルチーム、ガッタスになったが、奇しくもガッタスがハロプロの新ユニットとしてＣＤデビューすることから、紺野の歌手復帰も決まった。復活ステージは、名古屋センチュリーホールで行われるハロプロ夏ツアーの初日公演になる。

　紺野は「大学生活と両立できるか悩みましたが、両立して頑張っていこうと決意が固まりました。大学受験を応援してくれたみなさんにまた会えることを、とても楽しみにしています」とファンに発表した。ただ、しっかり学んで、卒業することを第一目標に掲げる紺野は「ガッタスと大学の予定が重なった時は、学業を優先させていただきたい」としている。

　紺野が参加する音楽ユニットとしてのガッタスは、音楽プロデューサー、つんく♂（３８）が２１人の選手から紺野をはじめ、吉澤ひとみ（２２）、石川梨華（２２）ら９人を選抜。つんく♂が作詞作曲したノリのいいポップナンバー「鳴り始めた恋のＢｅｌｌ」で８月２２日にデビューする。

　同曲は、シルク・ドュ・ソレイユが日本で上演中のスーパーサーカス「ドラリオン」のイメージソングに決定。７月２１日からフジテレビ系のテレビＣＭでオンエアされる。また、ガッタスも、「ドラリオン」のスペシャルサポーターに就任する。

Source from WHG 1 and 2
News from Nikkan Sports
News from Sports Hochi
News from Sponichi Annex
News from Tokyo Web
News from Japan-Zone
>> Read the rest of this article

Fujimoto Miki Removed from Young Town Doyoubi

Looks like Sanma-san is not kidding after all.

A message updated on the message board of Young Town Doyoubi radio show, announcing that Fujimoto Miki's regular spot will be replaced by Michishige Sayumi. Sayumi will be given a new segment in the show too, in order to educate her and for getting used to being on the show.

The last I visited the official site, I remember seeing Mikitty's picture on the home page but now only Takahashi Ai is on it. Mikitty's profile is still there, though the link is hidden from plain sight.




Slowly, Mikitty is mirroring Yaguchi Mari's after-scandal schedule -> getting less work. I sincerely hope this is not permanent. Hopefully, she gets to come back after the fire has cooled down a bit...

Source from Young Town Doyoubi

ヤン娘。についてのお知らせ
いつもありがとうございます。
前回の放送でありましたように、
藤本美貴さんは、一旦、ヤングタウン土曜日の出演を
見合わせることになりました。

それを受けて、藤本さんに代わり、
道重さゆみさんが出演することになりました。

よろしくお願いします。

そこで、コーナーのネタを募集します。

「ヤンタンの心得」（仮称）

道重さんがヤンタンに出演するにあたって
心得ておかなければいけないこと、気をつけなければ
いけないことをリスナーの皆さんから募集します。

〒530-8304
ＭＢＳヤングタウン土曜日

メールは
yando@mbs1179.com　です。

たくさんのお便りをお待ちします。
よろしくお願いします。

>> Read the rest of this article

Tsunku Comments on His Website About Mikitty.... And More.....

Tsunku though not available for a audio/video comments on Fujimoto Miki's case of relationship scandal, have expressed his thoughts in his official website.

In his message on the 4th of June 2007:

I went to the GAM and Biyuuden's concert in Tokyo. As everyone know from the news, Fujimoto Miki has decided to resign from Morning Musume. As the leader, though it seems that she may have many deep feelings and emotions, it is her whole-hearted decision. I hope that everyone give their biggest and warmest support. Furthermore, for causing worry and trouble to everyone, we humbly beg your pardon.

Tsunku then proceeds to share the progress and detail of the rehearsal and concert, before finally attributing the lively atmosphere and success of the performance to the support from the fans.



This must be the n-th time we hear members and personnel of the Hello! Project family apologise to the fans for the past many months. I feel sorry for them sometimes. However, no matter how regretful they feel, and how much they have shown to the media of their support to fellow comrades, no one is safe. And as any rational person would, even Tsunku himself have to censor whatever comments he make... including the images that are displayed on his website.

For example.... Tsunku's entry on the 3rd of June about the 21st anniversary of Up Front Groups and its photoshoot event, additionally reflected on some thoughts during his 15 years in association with UFG and his band "Sharan Q" that will come to its 20th anniversary next year. He shared some pictures taken from the photoshoot. However, the ones that have Mikitty in it are not displayed. Here are some of them -->

I'll leave it to you on how you can find the other hidden pictures yourself. I'm sure you can figure it out... ^_^
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Mikitty - The Revolution that Never Happened....

I was really looking forward on how Morning Musume will turn out under the leadership of Fujimoto Miki. Seriously. I was also looking forward on Mikitty slipping past her relationship scandal. Just for once, just one time, if anyone in Momusu gets caught outright in a relationship and then get away with it, Hello! Project will be forced to change.

Back in the day, when feisty Nakazawa Yuuko, the first generation member and leader of Morning Musume was still around, the atmosphere in the group is all about rivalry, all about competition, all about pride and hardwork. She sacrificed her own image and turn into a bossy senior to put things into orderly manner in the group, forcing each member to better improve themselves for a chance at the spotlight. Sure she's a workaholic, but she was the only one in the group who has ever had a real job before joining showbiz at 24 years of age, only she understood the meaning of professionalism and dedication to their work.

Guess who else had a real job before joining showbiz... it's Fujimoto Miki. Remember back when Mikitty dropped out of the 4th generation audition for Momusu, she was summoned by UFA to come back and undertake internship and training for a year before her official solo debut. Coupled with her tough-as-nails character and a take-no-prisoner vocabulary, she would have been the one leader to rise and bring back the good ol' Golden Era of Morning Musume. I have my doubts on Mikitty's leadership qualities, but I'm sure she will adjust herself when she is being forced to the situation. She is extremely stern, especially to the much younger members like Kusumi Koharu. It is with my hope, and many others perhaps, that Mikitty would bring back the days of rivalry and sense of competitiveness amongst the Momusu members. Momusu cannot survive by friendship alone, a little bit of healthy competition and fear of elimination is good to put them in a position to buck up and give above their best effort every time. But alas, it was not meant to be.

The second revolution that I have hoped for is a change of the "no boyfriend" policy in Morning Musume.

"Idols"... It is the year 2007 already, is it still important for Japan to keep the "idol" tradition of the 80's? I was told that when Mikitty's scandal surfaced, most fans in Japan have the same thinking ->

"At current times, it is really impossible to deprive idols from romance. "

As you can see, even the Japanese fans agree. (Forget the negative crowd, they're nothing but people who like to cheer at other's misery)

If it was for the intention of not letting emotion getting in the way of Momusu girls' work, then I understand. But how can we expect a bunch of healthy teenagers to suppress their notion for a romance and at the same time asking them to sing songs of love and relationship? While the "idol" formula worked 25 years ago, that doesn't mean that the idols in that era wholly accepted the idea.

I had hoped that starting with Mikitty, the rule of 'no romance' in Morning Musume would be finally be written out, and we will truly have a idol group that is truly modern and living up to the times.

Whether it was due to the conservative thinking of the Chairman, or the Japanese fan culture of idol worshiping, I can only describe this whole event with one thing - unfortunate.

It will be continuous battle from now on, where UFA (or the Johnny's for that matter) will continue to preserve the "idol" brand and prove that the concept still lives... and the paparazzi and journalists will continue to counter and disprove it.
>> Read the rest of this article

H!P HNPH News - The H!P Week at a Glance...

Managed to salvage my PC in one piece. Not without some casualties of corrupted files and configurations. Nevertheless, we're back in business.

Okay, let's talk about them scandals..... ahh... but that's old news by now. I've been deprived of my rantings over the whole scandal issue, but maybe that's a good thing, I've much to say and it ain't all positive.

First let's start with some news.... I need some warming up. ^_^

Nakazawa Yuuko's Marriage Life and Comments
Morning Musume 1st gen member and leader Nakazawa Yuuko will be playing one half of a married couple in a theater production "Blue Blue Birthday". She's in Tokyo at a press conference to promote the show that will begin from 22nd June till 2nd July, in Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space (東京芸術劇場小ホール). Playing her husband will be Ishida Issei, who is probably best known amongst J-Dorama lovers for his portrayal of Kashiwagi Kazuya in the 90's hit soap opera "Hitotsu Yane no Shita" or "Under One Roof" 1 & 2. Nakazawa received lots of advice from the experienced Ishida. Of course, it was a good opportunity to get some comments from Nakazawa about the current scandal news, specifically about Tsuji Nozomi marriage and Fujimoto Miki's resignation from Morning Musume, to which Nakazawa (who probably have seen it coming ^_^) responded with "Ah, the main topic has come!" when approached by the journalists.

Nakazawa made remarks about Tsuji first, "She turns 20 yrs old this month, I've known her since her graduation from junior school, so she's like a sister to me. I have congratulations for her, but I didn't think it would happen! We wish her well and hope she takes good care of her health."

About Fujimoto, Nakazawa responds with "She made the decision (to resign) herself, and takes up the responsibility for her actions. Isn't that good? It's very mature of her.". Furthermore, it was made clear that Nakazawa received a phone call from Fujimoto saying "Sorry for causing much trouble". To which Nakazawa added "As a graduate myself, I worry for my juniors and comrades, but I will give my support to them.".

As for herself, she laughs "For now, my only 'love' is my work. I don't have a partner, but I am not in a hurry either!". Ishida on the other hand is currently going out with actress Kawai Chiharu.

Source from Oricon 1
Source from Oricon 2




Mikitty Apologises to the Fans in Concert
Matsuura Aya and Fujimoto Miki, held their first concert as duo unit GAM on the 1st and 2nd of June, in Welcity Osaka, in the wake of Fujimoto's relationship scandal with comedian Shouji Tomoharu. After only 15 minutes into the show with 3 numbers sung, Fujimoto addressed the fans right away, regarding her scandal and announced her resignation from Morning Musume. She apologised to the fans and added that she will continue as a solo act and with GAM. Before the concert started, some fans were wondering if there will be angry audiences in the hall, but after seeing Fujimoto's poise and her apology, fans responded with positive cheers of "Gambare~~!" and "We will support you no matter what~~!". After the show, Fujimoto comments that she was grateful to receive such support from so many people.

On the night of 2nd of June, right after the concert, Fujimoto participated as a regular in the radio show, "Young Town Doyoubi" hosted by veteran comedian Akashiya Sanma. There when probed by Sanma-san, she expressed her regret, held responsibile for her own actions and resigned, as predicted by Sanma-san, quoting past example of Yaguchi Mari. No futher comments by succeeding Morning Musume leader Takahashi Ai, though she showed her support in other form of words. Fujimoto later added that she will probably be getting some solo work from the agency.

Source from Daily Sports
Source from Sports Hochi
Source from Sponichi
Summary of 02-06-2007 Young Town Doyoubi from H!O



Changes in Mikitty's Schedules
Sanma-san made a jest about Mikitty will not be able to come back as a regular on his show, on the same broadcast mentioned above. Was it really a joke? Or a veteran's insight? Some scheduling adjustments have been made after Mikitty's unfortunate turn of events.
For instance, she will not be participating in the upcoming concert in July - Hello! Project 2007 Summer 10th Anniversary Daikansya Matsuri HaroPuro Summer Festival | "Hello! Project 2007 Summer　10thアニバーサリー 大感謝祭　～ハロ☆プロ夏祭り～". Strange, cos it's not a Morning Musume only concert, so was she excluded because of the scandal issue? Other changes include the change of referring her with Morning Musume, as noted by Some Boys!, that her name/logo of her radio show has omitted the "Morning Musume's" part, so now it's only "Fujimoto Miki no Dokimiki Night".

Takahashi Ai and Mikitty was supposed to participate in Nippon TV Network's "NTV Eco Week 2007" event this Friday on the the 8th. Now, Mikitty is replaced by Kusumi Koharu. The girls will be taking part in the opening ceremony and the talk show segment.

Dokimi Night Official Site
H!P News - NTV Eco Week 2007
H!P Announcement about Fujimoto Miki




Berryz Koubou 14th Single Jacket Photo Revealed
From UFW official site, Berryz Koubou latest single "
Kokuhaku no Funsui Hiroba" (Confession of Love at the Plaza Water Fountain) jacket photo was revealed. It is due to be released on 27th of June. Serving Berryz in a Maid Cafe. Nice! Looks like UFA isn't letting go of their fanbase in Akihabara.
Pray hard that no scandals may occur upon them at this time. (Cos it seems to be a trend for it to happen nowadays.)
SINGLE+DVD
Normal Edition





Niigaki Risa Alo Hello DVD Preview
Official site at Up Front Works has a small video preview for Niigaki Risa's solo Alo Hello DVD.
Details | Preview
>> Read the rest of this article

Fujimoto Miki Resigns from Morning Musume

It's official. After Fujimoto Miki was caught on Friday that she is dating comedian Shouji Tomoharu, she has officially resigned from Morning Musume.

Expected? Almost. I was most sure that the agency UFA have tried their best to stop her from quitting, but end of the day, in deja vu of Yaguchi Mari's relationship scandal, the 3rd gen leader who also quit Morning Musume after being discovered by Friday, Mikitty has announced her resignation, in almost similar words "As leader of Morning Musume, and more distinctively as myself, wish to resign from Morning Musume."

This will be the shortest reign ever for any leader of Morning Musume, with the duration of only 4 weeks.

UPDATED:
From the official announcement in Hello! Project website, after many repeated meetings with Mikitty and other, the scandalous news reported by the Friday tabloid has been confirmed and acknowledged. Mikitty herself submitted her wish to resign from Morning Musume, apparently for the sake of the younger underaged members of other groups. As for her activities, Mikitty have participated in her duo unit 'GAM' with Matsuura Aya, just as previously scheduled. However, UFA asked for the understanding of the fans that Mikitty will not be participating in the upcoming concert in July - Hello! Project 2007 Summer 10th Anniversary Daikansya Matsuri HaroPuro Summer Festival | "Hello! Project 2007 Summer　10thアニバーサリー 大感謝祭　～ハロ☆プロ夏祭り～".

The new leader will be the current sub-leader Takahashi Ai, and filling in the sub-leader post will be Niigaki Risa.

Fujimoto Miki comments as displayed on the Hello! Project official site:

To all the fans who have been supporting us.
While being in the position as a leader of Morning Musume and to lead the other members, I have broken the rules of being in Morning Musume, and feel deeply responsible. As the result of my actions, I have caused trouble to all of the other members, and it is truly inexcusable. Personally, I cannot continue as the leader of Morning Musume as it is. Distinctively as myself, I resigned from Morning Musume.
Apologies to all the fans that have been supporting so far. I am really sorry.
From now on, I will continue as "Fujimoto Miki", please give your best support.

I've just created that new site Momusu banner only recently, then THIS happens. Dammit, I'm leaving it up there for a while longer. (>_<)
On topic, How much of these "comments" are fabricated and how close it is to the truth, I leave this to your discernment. I'm skeptical about it.

BUT, end of the day, one thing is clear to me - UFA planned to continue and uphold the "Idol" tradition in the Japanese music scene, and they are doing it with Hello! Project.

So what's next? Keep following Mikitty's future developments of course, the "Idol" part, I understand now. I'm interested in comparing how things will turn out for her, compared to Marippe's after-scandal career life. If Ayaya have a new single/album released in the next few months or so, then... yeah, pretty much we can guess what's happening already.

Special thanks to Rob for the email alert.

*******************************************

Announcement from Hello! Project official site

『モーニング娘。』リーダー「藤本美貴」についての重要なお知らせ
平成１９年６月１日
いつも『Hello！Project』を応援して下さってありがとうございます。
本日は『モーニング娘。』について大事なお知らせがあります。

「藤本美貴」は、平成１９年６月１日（金）をもって『モーニング娘。』を辞めることになりました。

　平成１９年５月２５日(金)発売の写真週刊誌「FRIDAY」誌面に藤本美貴に関する報道がされました。このことについて、藤本美貴本人と事実関係の確認等をし、本日に至るまで話し合いを複数回行いました。この話し合いの中で、多数の未成年者が属するグループの一員としてのあり方を話し合い、藤本美貴より「モーニング娘。のリーダーである自分自身へのケジメとして『モーニング娘。』を辞めさせて欲しい。」との申し入れがありました。弊社は、この藤本美貴からの申し出を了承する事と致しました。

　現時点で『藤本美貴』の今後の活動としては、先週末（5/26）から行われている松浦亜弥とのユニット、『ＧＡＭ』のツアーへは予定通り出演致します。また、７月に行われるコンサート「Hello! Project 2007 Summer　10thアニバーサリー大感謝祭　～ハロ☆プロ夏祭り～」へは、出演致しません。ご了承下さい。尚、モーニング娘。の後任のリーダーは、現在サブリーダーである「高橋愛」が務め、サブリーダーは「新垣里沙」が務めます。

今後とも『Hello！Project』をよろしく御願いします。

株式会社アップフロントエージェンシー



藤本美貴コメント

「いつも応援してくれるファンの皆さんへ。
私は、モーニング娘。のリーダーとして、他のメンバーを引っぱって行かなくてはならない立場にありながら、モーニング娘。としての約束を破るような事になってしまい、重く責任を感じています。私のとった行動で、メンバー全員に迷惑をかける結果になってしまったことはとても申し訳なく、そのままモーニング娘。のリーダーとして活動を続ける事は、自分の中では決して出来ることではありませんでした。自分自身へのケジメとして、モーニング娘。を辞めることになりました。
これまで応援してくれたファンの皆さんには申し訳ない気持ちでいっぱいです。本当にごめんなさい。これからは『藤本美貴』として頑張って行きますので、よろしくおねがいします。」

Sources
News from Sponichi
News from Sanspo
News from Sports Hochi
>> Read the rest of this article

'Iron Maiden' Miki on Young Town Doyoubi

Do you tune in to Young Town Doyoubi? It's a radio show navigated by veteran comedians Akashiya Sanma and Murakami Shouji, featuring regulars Fujimoto Miki and Takahashi Ai (Ai-chan has been with the show for 4 years, while Miki 3 years). Thinking that Mikitty will not show up for this week's show because of her scandal? Think again. Mikitty showed great guts and DID show up for the show and endured long lectures from the fatherly veteran Sanma-san. AND she is not repentant at all!

But don't take my word for it. If you are interested, download the broadcast if you have an account with H!O, or read the summary .

Ah, I hear my "Download complete" alert there... Excuse me while I take a listen at the show now, will come back and write my opinion.
>> Read the rest of this article

Fujimoto Miki - Shouji Tomoharu Scandal Acknowledged by News and Their Agencies

Good morning, everyone. I am, of course, at work so I shall be brief.

Last night... well, wee hours in the morning actually... my Email-pal from Japan bought the Friday magazine from the convenience store, and took the pains to type out the full texts of the article. Would have scanned it as well, but it was late and needed shower & rest. I didn't post it then, but here it is now:

フライデー テキスト全文 25-05-2007

新緑の香りが漂い始めた５月上旬の夜。東京・恵比寿にあるオシャレな岩盤浴サロンから一組のカップルが出てきた。
ひと汗かいたばかりとあって、二人は実にサッパリとした顔をしている。
先に階段を下りてくる男性は白いシャツにジーンズ。数歩後ろを歩く女性は、グレーのジャケットにジーンズ、ハンチング帽を目深にかぶっている。
ともに帽子やメガネで顔を隠しているが、その整った顔立ちは隠しきれていない。
男性はイケメン芸人として女性にも人気が高い『品川庄司』の庄司智治（３１）、女性は『モーニング娘。』の新リーダー・ミキティこと藤本美貴（２２）である。
’９５年に結成されたお笑いコンビ『品川庄司』は、冠番組こそないものの。レギュラー出演が多く”ひな壇芸人”として確固たる地位を築いている。
鍛え上げられたスリムマッチョな肉体をテレビでたびたび披露し、立ち居地右側でツッコミを担当しているほうが庄司。所属する吉本興業の月刊誌で
毎年発表している男前ランキングでは、’０２年から連続で上位にランキングしている。

一方のミキティは、『モー娘。』第３回追加オーディションをきっかけに芸能界入り。’０２年にソロデビューし、翌年に『モー娘。』の第５代リーダーに就任し、ハロプロの屋台骨として最注目アイドルの地位を築いている。また所属事務所が作っているフットサルチームでも副キャプテンを務めるなど、活発なキャラクターも魅力の一つだ。

第一線で活躍するトップアイドルと人気お笑い芸人が、二人きりで岩盤浴デート-----心穏やかではないファンの方もいるのではないか。では、この日の二人の様子を詳しくお伝えしよう。
庄司は４ＷＤのアメ車をミキティの自宅マンション近くに路上駐車し、彼女の部屋を訪ねていた。夜９時頃、庄司の車に乗ってでかけた二人は、恵比寿にある和風ダイニングバーに入っていった。
約２時間の食事を終え、店から出てきた庄司は、一人で車に乗り込み発進してしまう。これでお別れと思いきや、車は５０ｍほど走ったところで停車。
少し送れて店を出たミキティは、携帯電話を手にして辺りをキョロキョロと見渡し、庄司の車のほうへ向かった。彼女がすばやく乗り込んだのは、助手席ではなく後部座席。店は恵比寿駅からほど近い場所にあり、人通りも多い。人目が気になって同時に助手席に乗り込むのをためらったのだろう。
そして、二人は彼女の自宅マンションへと帰って行った。
夕食も済んでこれからまったり・・・・！？と思いきや、１時間も経たないうちに二人は再び外出。車を路上駐車させると、岩盤浴サロンのしたにあるコンビニへと入っていった。
庄司はＡＴＭでお金を下ろし「先に行ってて」とばかりに、彼女に岩盤浴店の会員カードを手渡す。ミキティが先にコンビニを出ると、彼は読み物と女性ファッション誌を買い、２階に向かった。

そして深夜０時を回った頃、揃って店を後にしたのが、冒頭の場面だ。
この後、二人の乗った車は、庄司のマンションへと滑り込んで行った。
この日は、奇しくも元『モー娘。』の辻希美（１９）の”妊娠＆結婚”がスポーツしにスッパ抜かれた日。辻ちゃんのオメデタ報道のウラでミキティもしっかり”お相手”を見つけていたようだ。
ミキティが庄司の家を訪れるのはこの日が初めてではない。コンサートツアー中の４月下旬の夜には、タクシーに乗ってハンチング帽＆ジーンズ姿で庄司宅を訪れた。
翌日、今度はほとんど同じファッションにマスクまで装着して登場。さらに次の日には、鍵を片手にエントランスを慣れた様子でくぐり・・・・と、”３夜連続”の逢瀬も目撃された。近くのコンビニで、お弁当を買って庄司の部屋を訪れたり、仕事現場から直接タクシーを飛ばして来たこともあった。そうまでして、カレの元に通っているミキティ。庄司への思いの強さがうかがい知れる。
一方の庄司は、出演中のバラエティ番組『リンカーン』（ＴＢＳ系）で、理想のキスシーンを演出＆主演。相手役の女優候補として、篠原涼子や相武紗季、栗山千秋らの名前を挙げた。もちろん、その中にミキティの名前があるはずがない。が、番組の企画とはいえ、結局、有森也実とのキスシーンを実現させた庄司、
そしてミキティの心中やいかに-----。
こうなると、ミキティを独り占めしている庄司に話を聞かせてもらいたい。『ルミネ・theよしもと』に出演後、車に乗って戻った庄司に声をかけた。
----フライデーです。藤本美貴さんとの交際についておうかがいしたいのですが。
警戒してこちらをうかがっていた庄司は、本誌がミキティの名前を出した瞬間、目を見開いてフリーズ。しばらくして「あの・・・・・・事務所に聞いてください。」と絞り出すように声を発した。
----本気で交際されているんですよね？
と尋ねても、顔をこわばらせたまま無言で車に乗り込み走り去っていった。
２６日からは、松浦亜弥とのユニット『ＧＡＭ（ギャム）』のコンサートツアーが始まるミキティ。キュートで元気印な幸せスマイルを見せ続けてください！！

Very interesting read indeed. It's the same as what we saw in the scans that is probably widely circulated by now. The NewsFeed at H!O have more videos and stuff updated. So please check it out.

This morning, the many new press covered the scandal.



From Japan-Zone Entertainment News

The first reported romance for new Morning Musume leader Fujimoto Miki (22) is none other than comedian Shoji Tomoharu (31). "Mikitty" has been spotted several times spending the night at Shoji's Tokyo apartment by weekly gossip magazine "Friday", who published the photos in today's issue. Friends say they have been dating since at least last autumn.

Other Japanese press:
Sankei Sports
Tokyo Sports
Chunichi Sports
Sponichi Annex

Will Mikitty get kicked out of Morning Musume?
Will she resign from leadership and Momusu, just like Yaguchi Mari?
Is Mikitty taking from past scandal examples, because she wants to quit Morning Musume?
Again, how will UFA handle this matter?
What is it in comedians that hot girls like so much anyway?

Frankly, I agree with my buddy in Japan -> I don't think Mikitty will get into too much trouble. I'm guessing that UFA will just let the matter slide and the news to cool down, the old trick of "If we don't talk about it, we can pretend it never happened". Matsuura Aya was Friday'd once before, almost similar elements - bought stuff at the convenience store, stayed over-night, photos taken... etc. There was an uproar then, but who talks about it now?

Sure, Ayaya may have some leniency being a solo artist and all, whereas Mikitty is in Morning Musume, where such things are a big no-no. BUT if nothing severe happens to Mikitty, we can probably safely say that the way UFA handles their talents are different now. For now, we'll see if Mikitty will be put on a language course overseas or not - meaning that she will be put on some kind of hiatus, she can't be walking the streets with HaroMoni@ given the current situation, right?
>> Read the rest of this article

Fujimoto Miki Scandal - More News Clips

Finally, WHG server was not accessible in the day until a while ago, and here's what they found.


EDIT: This clip from Nikkan Sports.

... However, the relationship between Fujimoto and Shouji is still shallow at this time, apparently the office will see to the matter in a stern manner in order to deal with the situation of the two smoothly. The office of both parties have not given further comments...

And found more from the 2ch BBS...



AND there's an update on the H!O NewsFeed.

Is this the end of the road for Mikitty?

I'm going to bed now. When I wake up... I hope it's all a bad dream.
>> Read the rest of this article

H!P HNPH News - GAM's Mikitty Lives her "Freedom" and Satoda Getting Busy

You know Hello! Project is getting too much attention, when a busy guy like me is creating 4 posts on a single day, and covering 5 news in two posts. ^_^ Not that it's forced upon me, but because things like this has to be historically documented somehow.

First things first...

GAM's Theme is "Freedom"

In an exclusive interview with Oricon yesterday on the 23rd, members of GAM, Matsuura Aya and Fujimoto Miki talked about their first album "Amai Yuuwaku" ~ "1stGAM～甘い誘惑" which was launched on the same day. The interview started off by mentioning Hello! Project caters to different listeners to their own age. Ayaya noted that because their busy schedules, the pair have to do their recording on different sessions and in order to do so they each have to imagine each other's presence. But given their long time friendship, their chemistry provided for great teamwork and have completed their recording without major problems. For example, when Ayaya sings the chorus, she is able to envision Mikitty's voice and singing style in her head to provide her part. The pair stated that they owed their rapport and chemistry to them knowing each other since their solo career days even though they have formed GAM only a short while ago.

Therefore Ayaya and Mikitty exclaimed that the theme for GAM is "Freedom". The pair wished to show the fans the GAM that they have created on their live concert, and is confident that they will enliven the crowd to sing along.

All this sounded good, and I look forward to their first concert. However it seems to me Mikitty have exercised her "freedom" a little too much, because...


Fujimoto Miki got Friday'd

The headlines on Friday tabloid on Fujimoto Miki isn't just a hoax. Friday have proven time and again on their reliability for such scandals. Love 'em or hate 'em, they're just doing their job. Had it not been Friday, some other tabloids would have covered the scoop, I'm sure. The good people at Hello! Online have further discovered more news about Mikitty's case. Here's a little quote from there ->

Friday reveals news of the two leaving a sauna, and having a 3-day-long date. Both are seen entering Shouji's 4WD car, going for a 2-hour-long dinner to a Japanese-style dining bar, then stopping at Miki's apartment and leaving in less than one hour for a sauna salon. Just after midnight, they are seen going back to Shouji's apartment.

Is this the end of Mikitty? Are we witnessing the shortest reign of being leader of Morning Musume at only 3 weeks? How will UFA handle this situation given the recent trouble caused by Kago Ai and Tsuji Nozomi?
Source here.


On the brighter side of things...

Satoda Mai getting busy

Busy with work, that is. Satoda Mai have been receiving numerous praises of being a wonderful TV talent. Other than her pioneering a new futsal league back her hometown, Satoda have been increasingly active in her "solo career" as sole member of Country Musume. Her activeness on variety shows and the like is only second to Nakazawa Yuuko. Even Yaguchi Mari is getting less appearances, but then again she has her own radio show and a regular show.

Satoda Mai have a solo single released, entitled "Oyaji no Kokoro ni Tomotta Chiisana Hi". Or rather a duet really, as reported in BARKS. The single will also feature the participation of veteran duo "Fujioka Fujimaki", whom have their own show called Oyaji Entertainment. I don't think this single is aiming at the top of the charts, but it's meant to be fun. Some Boys! Blog noted this news and provided a sample, please buy it if you like it.

In addition to that, Satoda gets her own regular column in B.L.T. magazine, named "Satoda My Favorite" starting today. ALSO, she will be next featured on Hello! Project Digital Books for the month of June. Yup, ANOTHER photo album eyecandy for us.

I guess we can quash that speculation of having Satoda, Yoshizawa Hitomi and Coconuts Musume Ayaka forming a buddy unit. BUT, as I always say, never say never! ^_^
>> Read the rest of this article

Friday'd! Fujimoto Miki & Shouji Tomohiro Love Scandal

Alright now... here's what I found.

A front cover of Friday with headlines highlighting current Morning Musume leader Fujimoto Miki in love relationship with a man named Shouji Tomohiro. Forget the cover girl, it's the yellow texts on the right that I'm worried about. Man, there is absolute havoc Japanese BBS right now!

I don't know much about Shouji, he could be well-known in Japan, I think. He is one-half of manzai comedian duo Shinagawa Shouji. Can anybody who knows more about this please step up, slap me and tell me that this just a hoax? Please~~~

So now........ I'll be waiting to see if:
1) Major news sites/papers acknowledging this scoop
2) UFA/UFW acknowledging the news

Either one of them leads to the other, so only then we'll know if it real or plain speculation.



Some info:
ADDED: Friday Article titles - Page 9 "「モー娘。」藤本美貴、庄司智春「３日連続通い愛」現場"
Japanese Wikipedia entry on Tomohiro Shouji
Here's a bunch of videos of him on Youtube, if you are curious to know how he is like.

>> Read the rest of this article

GAM steals the "sexy" tag

Something short and recent before I get back to writing essays.

Kd of Iroiro Aru Sa made an interesting post about the different departments in Morning Musume that appeals to the fans. This is why I love reading her posts - she always think outside the box. Basically, she highlighted some different styles that caters for the fans. Namely The Sexy Ones, The Cute Ones and The Cool Ones. I'll leave it for you guys to read the rest of it.

Currently, the obvious ones that is being pushed with the "sexy image" (or ero-kawaii, whichever you may call it) are Goto Maki, and Biyuuden. (I'm not including the PBs here.) Now, GAM is taking over that faction.



.... okay, to be fair, they are TRYING to take over the "sexy" faction. This picture compensated my previous remark about them high socks covering up the legs. That's the same outfit in the PV for the single "Lu Lu Lu". It would excite me even more, if they dance in them. There... I'm happy now. \(^o^)/

Ayaya has lost some weight lately, and looking better than ever. Reminds me of her role in movie Sukeban Deka. And Mikitty? Honestly... I'm growing a soft spot for her for some time already. She's still got quite an attitude, but I like her for her character.

On the "sexy image" part, I don't know how the overall fan reaction/acceptance to where GAM is going. But it will be interesting to see what the UFA will do, if they find that after all the hard work they invested on the image training for Gocchin and Biyuuden bunny girls, and GAM just strides in to snatch the trophy. ^_^




EDIT: If you're wondering what colour of them panties Ayaya and Mikitty is wearing under the white shirt in the first pic........ See here -->



No panties. Just... grey sweat pants. Bleh...
(Never mind the high socks though, audree says it's fashion)
>> Read the rest of this article

GAM - New Single, New Outfit

So after the much discussed Gay Great Aya and Miki single "Melodies", they have a new song coming up and a new outfit. It is their 3rd single now, to be released on March 21st. It's called "Lu Lu Lu".

Had a listen of the radio rip of Lu Lu Lu, and the supposedly coupling song (B-side) Family, it's a rip from Mikitty's Dokimiki Night radio show.
[ Note: For preview purposes only. ]



"Lu Lu Lu". What a title... The good thing about it though, is that it is easy to remember, even if you don't remember/like the song. It makes you want to look for that phrase, and when it's found, you're halfway to the song already. (But I don't think the songwriter/lyricist think of it as complicated as I do ^_^)


Honestly, I like the song "Lu Lu Lu" (or "Lululu". Not sure which is right). Sounds like a nice song to be made into a soundtrack of a movie. One thing though - Mikitty has gotta start learning how to do harmonies. You can't leave it all to Ayaya all the time. As for "Family", this rock & roll piece ain't a family song. ^_^
Tom has pre-ordered the single, and I hope he enjoys it.



But you know what pops into my head when I saw the single cover? 90's duo and pop sensation - Wink. Somehow something is telling me that the current GAM is an after-millennium version of Wink. (Maybe it's the hat? ^_^) If that's true, GAM may be much more popular with the release of their 3rd single, just as Wink did with theirs. But I may be dreaming, cos' I'm not sure if "Lululu" can top the Oricon charts.

We'll see if a GAM-only concert ever take place, just as boldly declared by Ayaya and Mikitty in the Hello！Project 2007 Winter Shuugetsu！ 10th Anniversary Concert. Maybe Aida Shoko (one half of Wink) can give the girls a few pointers. (Note that Aida Shoko is currently working with Up Front Works)



Lastly,..... mini-skirt one-piece for the outfit. Probably going for a 1920's kind of fashion, an era where the 'GAM' takes their name from.


What I don't understand is that if this outfit is for showing them legs, why are they are given high stockings that goes past the knees? Show the legs but cover 'em up again? What's the point?



Wink image taken from http://www.idollica.com/wink/Wink.html
>> Read the rest of this article

Yoshizawa Hitomi Graduates from Morning Musume

It's official. Yoshizawa Hitomi will be graduating from Morning Musume on May 6th 2007 at the end of "Morning Musume Concert Tour - 2007 Spring ~ Sexy 8 Beat ~ " (モーニング娘。コンサートツアー２００７春～ＳＥＸＹ ８ ビート～) in Saitama Super Arena. Fujimoto Miki will succeed the position of leader, and Takahashi Ai as sub-leader.




I got some news on this earlier on, but kept it aside, labelling it as rumour until I can confirm this information. Even drafted an article on predicting the next 3 possible graduating member in 2007. (The other two was Fujimoto Miki and Takahashi Ai; And if all 3 members graduated, suggesting Niigaki Risa as the upcoming Momusu leader)

Later on, the announcement was made public in Hello! Project Official website.

It's strange, only a while ago, I was discussing on the possible routes that Yossie can take if she ever graduates. I'm not entirely shocked. Perhaps in writing that article, it has prepared my mind well on accepting this news (Now you know what I'm going through while writing that). In fact, I'm excited and happy for Yossie. However, it seems that Tsunku is throwing all my ideas away, by stating that Yossie will not only participating as a solo artiste under the Hello! Project banner, she will be a part of a new group unit. He added that various opportunities will be scheduled for her to take on.

With this graduation, Yoshizawa Hitomi will be the last of the 4th generation member to graduate, and has set the record as the 3rd longest serving Morning Musume leader of 2 years and 1 month, and second longest Morning Musume member with 7 years. (Iida Kaori was the longest serving leader at 3 years and 8 months, and Momusu member of 8 years) [Update: Thanks to Faramir's comments]

Yossie has been loyal to Morning Musume for so long already, and her time has come for her to move on. I am most interested to see what the future holds for our dear Yossie.

I'm intrigued to see if Morning Musume will turn all sukeban under the leadership of Fujimoto Miki. Poor Mikitty, she must be really sad to see her best buddy leaving the family now. Looks like Mikitty will be around for a little while longer, and Takahashi Ai won't be graduating soon either. It's time for a new era. Let's wait and see if Morning Musume will embark for another image reformation again.



Additional side note: You know, after a while it's a surreal feeling reflecting on the fact that Yossie won't be around in Momusu anymore. At this moment, "Mushoku Tomei no Mama de" was playing on the background while I am proof-reading this post for mistakes. Though I mentioned that I was happy for Yossie's graduation, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness, while listening to the lyrics. Also noticed that this song which was sung by Yossie, Mikitty, Ai-chan, Ogawa Makoto and Konno Asami, other than Mikitty and Ai-chan, all other members will not be around come May 2007. An unintentional goodbye song? A Rainbow 7 Curse?? I will never listen/look at this song the same way I always do anymore...


*************


I do not posses a degree in Japanese Language, but with what I studied before, here are the loosely translated comments made by Tsunku and Yossie. Hope this helps. (The goddamn 'blue screen of death' happened while editing, crashing my PC while i'm updating and I have to redo everything again. Seems like even my PC has gotten all moody over this news... )

Tsunku's comment:

To all fans and related parties.
Sincere thanks for all your support all this time.
We wish you our best regards, with the beginning of this new year.

This day, we would like make an announcement with regards to Morning Musume's Yoshizawa Hitomi.
It has been decided that Yoshizawa Hitomi, who joined at April 2000 as 4th generation member, will graduate at the last day of "Morning Musume Concert Tour - 2007 Spring ~ Sexy 8 Beat ~" that will take place from March till May of 2007.

In this 7 years, beginning from Morning Musume's style reformation period, natural funky singing ability, rhythmic dancing that displays athletic ability - with these, she has shown her unique character/personality in Morning Musume.
She has perfectly carried out this role and in her skills.

We think of it as "Graduation with satisfaction". It is with our expectations, that we can hopefully extend this personality after graduating from Morning Musume. And with this personality, we believe a new Hello! Project *wave/wind will begin.

After graduation, (Yoshizawa) will continue under the Hello! Project banner, doing solo works and participating in a new unit - challenging in various chances given.

After Yoshizawa Hitomi's graduation from Morning Musume, Fujimoto Miki will succeed as leader, and Takahashi Ai as sub-leader.

Presently, with consideration for the success of Morning Musume's concert tour this spring, in becoming one with the member's performance, we ask that everyone to give your best support and cheers.


2nd January 2007 - Tsunku

Yossie's comments:

I, Yoshizawa Hitomi, will graduate from Morning Musume on the last day of Morning Musume concert tour this spring, at the Saitama Arena on 6th of May.

After graduation, will be active as a member of Hello! Project.

From now onwards till May, as leader of Morning Musume, will continue to give my best as usual.


Morning Musume - Yoshizawa Hitomi

Comments by Tsunku

ファンの皆様、並びに関係者の皆様へ。
いつもいつも応援いただきまして誠にありがとうございます。
新年を迎えまして、ますますご健勝のことと思います。

さて、本日はモーニング娘。の吉澤ひとみに関してのお知らせです。
２０００年４月に第４期メンバーとして加入した吉澤ひとみが２００７年３月～５月に行われます「モーニング娘。コンサートツアー２００７春～ＳＥＸＹ ８ ビート～」の
最終日を持ちまして卒業することを決めました。

モーニング娘。のスタイルの変革期に加入してきて７年間、
持ち前のファンキーな歌唱能力、運動能力を生かしたリズム感あふれるダンス、
それらを生かしてモーニング娘。の中で個性的なキャラを発揮してくれました。
十分にその役割りを果たし、スキルも十分身につけました。
「満を持しての卒業」とはこのことだなと思います。
モーニング娘。を卒業することによって、さらに個性を伸ばしてくれるだろうと期待しております。
そして、その個性がまた新しいハロー！プロジェクトの風を吹かせることに一躍買ってくれると信じています。

卒業後は、ハロー！プロジェクトに属しながら、ソロでの芸能活動や、また新たなユニットへ参加など、いろんなチャンスにチャレンジしてもらいたいと思っています。

吉澤ひとみのモーニング娘。卒業後はリーダーに藤本美貴、
サブリーダーに高橋愛を任命いたします。

ひとまずは、この春のモーニング娘。のコンサートツアーを成功させるよう
メンバー一丸となってのパフォーマンスが先決と思ってますので、皆様方には益々の声援のほどをよろしくお願い申し上げます。


２００７年　１月２日　つんく♂

Comments by Yoshizawa Hitomi

私吉澤ひとみは、今年春のモーニング娘｡ コンサートツアー最終日、5月6日のさいたまスーパーアリーナ公演をもってモーニング娘｡ を卒業することになりました。

卒業後もハロー！プロジェクトの一員として、活動していきます。

これから約5ヶ月間もこれまでと変わらず、モーニング娘｡ リーダーとして全力でがんばります。

モーニング娘｡ 吉澤ひとみ

Additional source from WHG
News clippings from WHG
>> Read the rest of this article

Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Single - Title and Jacket

Note: This post has been long overdue, but due to the recent earthquake have damaged our network connections in East Asia, and I have been unable to go online without experiencing slowness or zero connectivity. So right now, I will be having difficulty updating my blogs until the connection has been fully restored. I hope the earthquake victims are doing OK...

The official title of Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Celebration Single is:

僕らが生きる　ＭＹ　ＡＳＩＡ
Bokura ga ikiru MY ASIA ( Literally meaning "We're Alive My Asia" or "My Asia, Where We Live" )

Here are the jacket images:



The positioning are as follows:
Niigaki Risa, Goto Maki, Abe Natsumi, Kusumi Koharu, Iida Kaori

I must say that the whole image of the group is fantastic. The blue theme, long flowing hair...etc. Delighted to see Niigaki Risa finally getting to share the spotlight in a shuffle with other big stars of Hello! Project.


Tsunku has mentioned before, after the selection of the new 8th member in Morning Musume Happy 8 Audition, and after the setup of his new company TNX, that he aims for Asia as next market. And with what I see in the single's jacket photo, I think it's pretty good so far. Heh, the motivation for world domination has always been in the hearts of any ambitious Japanese, eh?

There were many speculations on how this team was formed. As recently highlighted by commenter it is to represent the original 5 Momusu members, by matching the age.

Abe Natsumi / Iida Kaori ===> Nakazawa Yuko
Goto Maki ===> Ishiguro Aya
Kusumi Koharu ===> Fukuda Asuka
Niigaki Risa ===> Abe Natsumi / Iida Kaori

Back to basics? Reintroducing Morning Musume to the world?

[ Will update this portion later. ]



I am definitely looking forward for this single, and see how it turns out. If in fact, it is going back to the basics and following the style of the original members, I'm expecting some harmonizing bits. The jacket photo suggests that it may be an fast-tempo song, but then again, it may turn out to be another "Aruiteru", where the photos and the song doesn't have to relate.

So, we'll just wait and see...


Related Posts:
Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Team Lineup... Bleh~~
Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Celebration... but what about Aibon?

Sources:
Up Front Works
Witch Hunting Girlscouts
tvstation.jp
>> Read the rest of this article

Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Team Lineup.... Bleh~~

[ UPDATED 09-12-2006 3:27AM ]
The lineup for the Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Special Unit for 24th January 2007 has been announced a few days ago. And they are :

*drumroll*
Iida Kaori
Abe Natsumi
Goto Maki
Kusumi Koharu

..... and that's it.
*twang* *blappp* (cymbals cracks and snare drum breaks)

I was going "WHAT??" over the announcement. Only four of them? Why?

If it was the Ace Team, .... OK, so Nacchi was the first Momusu Ace, and then came second gen ace Gocchin, and third gen ace Koharu... then why Kaorin is in?

If it was Good Singers Team ... Kaorin rocks anytime, Nacchi goes without saying, Gocchin is OK.... then why Koharu is in?

Plus, 3 of them are graduated members. What? Ai-chan not good enough as an Ace? What about Mikitty? And Golden Age girl, and now-leader Yossie?

I seriously don't get why the lineup is such. Though I can understand why they didn't want to have the whole Momusu army (past and present) to form the unit. (Because they have already done that in last year's Kohaku show, and mentioned that it was supposed to be the once-in-a-lifetime event)

Apologies to all Koharu fans, but I really don't see why she should be in that group. It's reminds me of DEF DIVA, supposedly an elite songstress unit, comprising of nice singing divas. So we have Matsuura Aya, Goto Maki, Abe Natsumi... but Ishikawa Rika?
I just don't see how Koharu can cope with the other 3 legends, in terms of singing.

I'm sorry but I'm totally disappointed. The fact I don't get to see Ishiguro Aya or Ichii Sayaka come back. And the fact that lineup does not comprise of Momusu girls that have defined, supported and built the Momusu legacy that we know. It's the 10th anniversary, shouldn't the group be something commemorable? Why does UFA have to build another popularity crutch for Koharu again?

OK, if UFA won't do it, then I will pick my own ultimate 10th anniversary team for myself here:

One from every generation -
Abe Natsumi, Mari Yaguchi, Goto Maki, Yoshizawa Hitomi, Takahashi Ai, Fujimoto Miki. OK, Kusumi Koharu also.

NOW that's better, yes? Ayappe and Ka-san is not in it, but it's better than the 4.


*sigh*

Source Here
Source from Ikimasshoi

=======================

EDIT:

Just found out, that apparently Niigaki Risa is added to the 10th Anniversary Team Lineup. Source from Neowing and WHG. However... Oricon didn't say anything about that. I'm so confused... are they going to keep adding members to it every week, until all members are in? Double Bleh~~~! This is not going to end...
>> Read the rest of this article