Wishin' Upon The Stars

Did you know that human beings like us can grant wishes as well? If you made your wishes known, it just might come true ...

Following the previous post that I wished for a more personal contact from Leslie, I woke up to a very pleasant surprise from him, saying:

"Surprise ! When you wish upon the star, here I am to grant you this little wish - a personal mail from your busiest and oldest friend."

Leslie and I have been friends since our secondary school days in 1984, and he is indeed one of my "oldest", definitely the busiest (hands-down) and one of the dearest. Leslie likes to introduce me to his friends as the "culprit" - the one that got him hooked onto Japanese music. Like him, we were both misfits at school. Not particularly sporting bodies, we found solace in Japanese music as we share so many good and sad memories together. I am eternally grateful for the friendship and connection that we share and in spite of his busy schedule, still occasionally catches up whenever he can.

He also wrote to thank me for the plug on his work and why wouldn't I? I am every bit as proud of his achievements as everyone else who cares about him. It was also so nice to get the following compliments from him and I wanted to share them here:

"I was having a great time going through it. I am sure the fans of Akina, as well as 80's J-Pop lovers are all so thankful to you for the passion you put into making this blog. Great work, please continue to share all these thoughts and information with all your friends and your fans!"

It is a pleasure to be able to share my thoughts and my feelings here because this space allows me to be as honest as I can and as revealing as I want to be. Since I am not very good with keeping diaries and I love writing, this format has allowed me to chronicle my brain movements in a colourful fashion and share my experiences with everyone. Through this act of giving and sharing, I am the true benefactor. So, Thank you everyone, for taking the time to read it.

Onto more updates about Leslie, his biggest book SUPERSTARS will be out soon in the middle of April 2006. From May 2006 till end of 2006, he will be launching this big book in all the major Asia cities, and a big exhibition as well. From Taipei, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo and then Singapore. Unfortunately, he is not having one in Australia, so I will have to find out the dates and possibly plan a holiday around then to give him my support! I will also keep everyone updated on his schedule of events, so that those of you who are there might want to go and show your support as well.

He also wanted me to share the following extract, which is his interview from the latest issue of Harper's Bazaar Japan, in regards to his next book SUPERSTARS, for the Charity towards World Vision Organisation, to help the kids who suffered from the last Tsunami Disaster. I think this is wonderful that he is so caring and that fame has not changed him. We definitely need people in fame to bring the world's attention to more worldly causes because the leaders are not doing enough for this world. Keep up the great work too, Les!



It is so nice to see some of the familiar faces on this shoot and you can click on the picture to view it full size. I was most surprised and delighted to see 安室奈美恵 and 石川さゆり in the collage presented and I would be looking forward to getting my hands on it when it is published and autographed.

Lastly, in my own "biased world", he shared the best news with me that:

"I am now working on the possibility to photograph our Superstar Nakamori Akina, as I am going through Ayumi Hamasaki to help me contact her."

Hopefully, he will make it in time to include her in his new book. Thank you Leslie, for taking the time to share with me and everyone else. I just wanted to say I am so proud of you and I love you. Till we meet or share again ...

Thanksgiving

We don't celebrate Thanksgiving here in Australia though I think the idea of appreciation is always nice, and an long awaited email from a friend, even better.

Though it was a mass email, it is still always nice to hear from Leslie, who is always busy. The last few times we had caught up have always amazed and inspired me with his dedication to his work, which is also the love of his life. The small doses of sleep he gives himself every night (approx. 2-3 hours) so that he can devote more of his "awake" time living his dream is "worrying" but inspirational.

For those who have access to International magazines and can undertstand Japanese, you can read about Leslie's interview with Harper's Bazaar Japan in their latest January issue about his Super Stars project. The cover starring Ai Tominaga is also shot by Leslie, as well as a big 14 page fashion story.



Hopefully, a more personalised email will follow soon when he finds the time. However, one has to be content with what they can get, and I am thankful that he still remembers me and our friendship. Thank you and All the best, Les!

Morality

The controversy is growing ... the deadline is near. Will there be enough time to save him?

This question has been hanging off people's tongue when they see me, and as a Singaporean, they are all rather interested in what I think about Nguyen's execution and the extensive media coverage this issue is currently attracting.

From what I learnt previously from my brother a month ago, this piece of news rarely created a blip in the local papers, and some people might be surprised that not many Singaporeans have raised any "hoopla" around the issue of "capital punishment". Now, that it is discussed in major newspapers, even some Singaporeans are finding it hard to ignore, with a discussion even popping up in an interview my brother recently had ...

As a Singaporean 8 years ago (I have to include that because I have changed too much since), I did not have enough information to form an attitude towards capital punishment. Though the movie "Dead Man Walking" which discussed the morality of capital punishment is one of my favourite movies of all time, I was absorbed by the human tale more than the issue it provoked, so I was just as blasé over the issue as my other compatriots. To many Singaporeans (or at least to me then), it is like getting a major punishment for something you have been warned. Just like when we break laws and are repeatedly warned not to, we should be punished for our "sins". As long as we are not involved, we don't really care. I had not gone beyond the thought that it is not moral and we have no right to take someone else's life (even if we are not religious), regardless of what they have done, so I never really had too much of an issue with it.

I don't empathise with the decision that they have made, but I understand why they are sticking to it. Firstly, if they change their minds (which I will be very happy if they do), they will show vulnerability for once, in the rigid law system that they have constructed and withheld for so long, and it is the lynchpin for the continued stability of the small state. Secondly, I don't think anyone would like someone else teaching them how to rule their own country, so on these grounds, I am sad to say that they are unlikely to budge.

When this case came to light, it wasn't so much the "heroics" of the victim (in trying to pay for his brother's debts) but another story that provided a human face and a sorry tale, that made me form an opinion about capital punishment once and for all. A news report that I read about a month ago focused on another man, a Singaporean with 2 young children who was hanged not long ago. He had begged his family to do something about Nguyen, because he described him as a kind soul that shouldn't be there. I don't remember the entire story but it could be his family that inspired Nguyen's family to do more for their son. Singapore's argument is to show no mercy and if they have condemned one of their own, why should they spare Nguyen just because he committed the same crime but was the citizen from another country?

In being fair, they have placed everything in black and white, ignoring the human aspects to every life, and most importantly the people affected by it. What drew tears for me is the story the sister of the executed Singaporean told in the paper. She said that throughout the 2 years or so that her brother was locked up in solitary confinement and maximum security, they were not allowed to touch her brother in any way. Not even in the final 2 weeks of his life when they were allowed to see him everyday. She said they were all so sad, especially her elderly mother, who only wanted to touch and smell her son for the very last time, and even that was denied ...

I understand their rationale for doing this, but have we watched too many movies to think that everyone has some crafty undercover agent ready to plot some rescue mission that we can't even allow some humanity in such cruelty? That was the turning point for me. I cannot comprehend not allowing the smallest bits of kindness. If they can allow them to order their last favourite meal (within prison budgets), can't they allow something that is priceless (or costless) such as a hug or a kiss from a loved one?

On another sad note, is our society changing so much that we are increasingly living in isolation (because of technological advances) and forgetting about the joys of connecting in real human touch? There are so many recent stories that are surfacing about decaying bodies being found by people after their neighbours have died for weeks, and today, we receive some depressing news that an acquaintance had committed suicide 4 weeks ago, only to be discovered this morning?

It is depressing that we are all falling out of touch. We all need someone to care for us and someone to care about. That's what makes life worth living for. You never know when a phone call, a smile or even the slightest, most insignificant gesture can make a difference to someone who's seeking death. Just like the poem I shared not long ago, contact someone you have not for some time. Keep in touch and stay in love ...

歌姫～ＵＴＡＨＩＭＥ～ DVD

This is my fifth attempt at posting this. I have been having major difficulties keeping this post and I am truly baffled. Hopefully, someone can shed some light on this.

Presenting the cover art for Akina's new DVD, released by Avex Trax. It marks Akina's first release through Avex, though her transfer is yet to be officially announced.

歌姫～ＵＴＡＨＩＭＥ～Ａｋｉｎａ　Ｎａｋａｍｏｒｉ　Ｓｐｅｃｉａｌ　Ｌｉｖｅ　２００５　Ｅｍｐｒｅｓｓ　ＣＬＵＢ　ｅX



This is probably one of the projects that Akina mentioned in her last fanclub letter that took two years to eventuate, and us fans are eagerly anticipating all her new releases. She has been dormant since July last year but has generated new buzz at the end of the year with one new single release and two releases next year, the forementioned DVD and new "Best Collection" album that includes all her singles from Universal and her Utahime Record Label. The song list is yet to be confirmed, but is rumoured to include 2005 newly recorded versions of her old hits, including "Desire", which is the coupling song for the new single.

This is the song list for the DVD, and it is interesting to note that she has transferred the first song of the concert (which I attended) to the last, and I am guessing that she is doing that to create the impression that it was an encore song, when in fact she didn't respond to any calls.



She could have used the final night's performance if not for the "crazed" fan who jumped onto the stage and robbed us of any possible encores that night. Nonetheless, it is nice to see an active Akina again, well timed for 紅白.

紅白スキウタ Part 2

I have already done an update on this, but I thought I might reveal the songs that I voted for too that did not end up on the Top 100 List.

あの日にかえりたい／荒井由実 - My favourite song from her 荒井由実 years. The acoustic "Bossa Nova" remix with Lisa Ono is to die for.

あばよ／研ナオコ - Naoko's biggest hit and only No. 1.

かもめはかもめ／研ナオコ - One of my favourite songs of Naoko. Funny that the first time I heard of it was from 工藤静香's cover album. Beautiful ...

魅せられて／ジュディ・オング - Sad that Judy didn't make it. Only one Taiwanese singer, Teresa Teng did, and she is no longer around to sing it.

待つわ／あみん - Another forgotten classic though I have to admit that it was rather disappointing visually when they performed it in 1982.

悲しみがとまらない／杏里 - I was surprised they chose this instead of [Cats Eye], which was a bigger hit, but recently I listened to a revamped acoustic version and I loved it.

時をかける少女／原田知世 - Catchy.

春なのに／柏原芳恵 - One of my favourite songs of Yoshie. I will never forget her debut 紅白 performance in 1983 where she changed in the middle of her performance. It still surprises everyone today how she managed to do it.

君たちキウイ・パパイア・マンゴーだね。／中原めいこ - I bought one of her albums [Moga] and liked most of the songs in it, and that was after I discovered she wrote "Passion" for Yu Hayami. This song is silly but fun!

涙のリクエスト／チェッカーズ - I am surprised that チェッカーズ did not have any songs in the Top 100. I will never forget how Akina, Seiko and 森 光子 impersonated them with their version in 紅白 in 1984.

もしかしてPARTⅡ／小林幸子、美樹克彦 - My favourite song of 小林幸子 because of the playful melody.

六本木心中／アン・ルイス - This song was introduced by Zing to Leslie and I. He loved this song and the influence still reasonates.

恋におちて／小林明子 - I am so surprised that this didn't make it. It is such a popular song in its hey day and still one of those rare few Japanese songs that my non Japanese speaking/listening friends can remember or even sing! Disappointing!

卒業／斉藤由貴 - After multiple listens, I have decided that this is her best song and definitely her most representative.

ダンシング・ヒーロー／荻野目洋子 - I like Yoko chan as a singer because she is a good singer but "unfortunately", she is not very pretty in Japanese eyes, but I am quite surprised that this song did not make it as opposed to [タッチ／岩崎良美].

翼の折れたエンジェル／中村あゆみ - I love this song but I guess it is very much forgotten nowadays.

なんてったってアイドル／小泉今日子 - Again not one of Kyon2 best songs, but definitely one of her signature songs. She redeemed herself with her eye catching performance in her 2nd 紅白 performance after her really horrible debut.

MUGO・ん…色っぽい／工藤静香 - I voted for this song even though this is not one of Shizuka's best songs. It is the song that made her really famous and it had to do more with Japan being ready for a new top female idol and the fact that it was written by 中島みゆき. Pony Canyon also heavily promoted her (after the decline of おニャン子クラブ ( Onyanko Club) and all their graduated singers who started suffering declining sales because they all couldn't sing). Shizuka might have a squeaky voice but she can sing in live concerts rather well, and she is rather talented, holding art exhibitions almost every year. Plus, she is married to Kimura, Japan's top male idol.

サボテンの花～ひとつ屋根の下より～／財津和夫 - I love this song, also because of it is the theme song of one of my favourite Jdrama.

長い間／Kiroro - The girls in Kiroro has such soothing voices, as compared to the other really irritating girl bands with looks but no voices. I remember returning to Singapore and listening to this song on my friend's car and immediately had the rush to go buy it on CD. A classic.

So, here is it. You can visit this list to see which songs did not make it, and you will be very surprised. I can see at least another 20 songs. So, did any of the songs you voted not make it to the Top 100?

スキウタ結果発表 (Updated)

The results for the 紅白スキウタ poll has been revealed. Instead of the anticpated ranking of the Top 100 songs, NHK has decided to keep the suspense flowing, revealing only the Top 100 songs for 紅組編 and 白組編. I have attached the links to another fansite because this fan has identified the songs with the singers which made it easier to identify.

The decision to delay the ranking is a little disappointing because we will now have to wait to see if Akina will indeed be invited. Judging from the news report from the last post, "Desire" was anticipated to better its No. 10 ranking from the mid term results. NHK has indicated that they will base their selection of singers from the poll and from my analysis, there are not many singers from the 80s who made it to the list, and "Desire" is defintely one of the definitive songs from the 80s, so that is good news. Still, we will have to wait and see.

Update: NHK will reveal the final rankings on their website on the 31st December. It is also discussed that 夏川りみ was being interviewed on the program, and commented that her choice was "Desire". 夏川りみ was asked once who was her idol when she was growing up and she very proudly said "中森明菜" and performed a very respectable version of "Desire" complete with all Akina's signature dance moves. The program was also reported to be very boring because they did not complement the announcements with any video clips, just a straightforward style of reporting.

These are the songs from the 80s that were in the Top 100 from 紅組 which is a surprisingly short list:

天城越え（石川さゆり）
まちぶせ（石川ひとみ）- surprise!!
恋人よ（五輪真弓）
聖母たちのララバイ（岩崎宏美）
タッチ（岩崎良美）- surprise!!
for you…（高橋真梨子）
桃色吐息（高橋真梨子）
駅（竹内まりや）
つぐない（テレサ・テン）
時の流れに身をまかせ（テレサ・テン）
飾りじゃないのよ涙は（中森明菜）
DESIRE（中森明菜）
Diamonds（PRINCESS PRINCESS）
青い珊瑚礁（松田聖子）
赤いスイートピー（松田聖子）
守ってあげたい（松任谷由実）
川の流れのように（美空ひばり）
越冬つばめ（森　昌子）
雨の慕情（八代亜紀）
フレンズ（レベッカ）
My Revolution（渡辺美里）

There were 1,511,481 votes cast with 3,759,996 votes for the songs, because each vote allowed you to pick 3 songs from the prescribed list and then one song of your choice outside the list. The breakdown is here. Surprisingly, there were more men (59.9%) than women (40.1%) that voted and the highest fraction of voters were in their from the 20s.

Both of Akina's songs made it, so did all 3 of Seiko's and Momoe's. As an Akina fan, I would give 2 of my 3 votes to Akina, so it is great to see both her songs end up in the Top 100, hopefully even in the eventual Top 20, if NHK finally reveals the ranking.

For all my votes, I would use two of them up for both of Akina's songs, and then select one from the list. I didn't choose any Seiko's songs (even though I do like her) and only one Momoe song because I am sick of them asking the same singers to cover them if they are selected. Nor did I select any song from the mid term Top 30 list that NHK revealed, though there were many songs that I liked. For the song of my choice, it was always "ミ・アモーレ" from Akina. These are the songs that I voted for that ended up in the Top 100:

Update: Reading Hamu's blog entry has made me decide to post some extra comments on the songs and from the White Team too.

オリビアを聴きながら（杏里) - an evergreen. Written by 尾崎亜美 in 1978, it was the perfect debut single for 杏里. It did not sell very well but has since became a classic. I believed she re-recorded a few new versions of it, including one for [ ザ・杏里 ] in 1986 when I first heard it. She also performed it in 紅白 in 1996. Akina also sang it beautifully once in a piano recital though I can't recall where or when.

まちぶせ（石川ひとみ）- I only heard this song when I watched her perform in 紅白 in 1981 through DVD. Loved the song, but disliked the performance because she was so anxious, she cried throughout half the song. I was surprised it was written by 荒井由実 (which is the maiden name for for 松任谷由実) for 三木聖子 originally (another Seiko). However, it took 石川ひとみ to cover it to become the hit it is today and Yuming herself covered it again in the 90s for a TV theme song, which was why it sounded so familiar when I heard it.

ブルーライト・ヨコハマ（いしだあゆみ）- I love this song and いしだあゆみ is so beautiful. It is the one of the first songs to hit No. 1 when Oricon was first released and my aunt told me that it is song that you will hear when you visit ヨコハマ.

恋人よ（五輪真弓) - another classic, though my personal favourite song of Mayumi is [心の友], and she has re-recorded and released as a single this year with an Indonesian retitled "KOKORO NO TOMO～for DELON". You can read the details on Hamu's blog.

PRIDE（今井美樹) - My second favourite song of 今井美樹 though I love this song's lyrics the most. I might attempt to translate it one day. A beautiful song second to my fave, 「野性の風」

木綿のハンカチーフ（太田裕美）- One of my favourite songs of the 70s. Beautiful melody and melancholic lyrics about her boyfriend leaving and her asking only for his cotton handkerchief as a momento. It is also one of Funny Felix's favourite songs to sing at Karaoke, a very bold attempt, I might say.

TOMORROW（岡本真夜）- another favourite and mega hit of the 90s.

異邦人（久保田早紀）- Akina covered this song for her "Utahime 2 - Zero Album" and it is a beautiful song.

あなたに会えてよかった（小泉今日子）- Kyon Kyon's biggest hit and another brave move towards maturity. Akina did a better job at covering it though the key was still a little too high.

会いたい（沢田知可子）- I believe Akina sang this too once, but I can't confirm.

駅（竹内まりや）- I love Mariya very much but I think Akina's version is still the best!

時代（中島みゆき）- One of my favourite songs. Timeless ...

飾りじゃないのよ涙は（中森明菜）- need I say more ...

DESIRE（中森明菜）- again

世界中の誰よりきっと（中山美穂＆WANDS) - The first Japanese song that I managed to learn in minutes. It is one of my favourite 中山美穂 songs, second to [幸せになるために].

Diamonds（PRINCESS PRINCESS）- One of the few rock songs that I love!! So incredibly shakingly infectious!

卒業写真（松任谷由実) - Leslie and my aunt sang this song for me when I first visited Japan in 1994. We went to this small restaurant, and my aunt asked to use the mike, introduced herself and myself to everyone in the restaurant and then sang a duet with Leslie as a special dedication and present. Unforgettable ...

守ってあげたい（松任谷由実）- Another classic from Yuming! When she performed this song at "The Best 10", it was the only time she has appeared on TV. Will she appear again this year in 紅白 as rumors persist (for the umpteeth time)?

プレイバックPart2（山口百恵) - I love almost all the singles that Momoe has released but I chose not to vote for the other 2 songs of hers because I am sick of hearing the male songwriters cover them again and again on 紅白. I would have voted for all of them if it was any other poll because the other two are actually my favourite songs of Momoe. I only want to hear Momoe sing them again via video transmission because I don't think she should come back again, as much as I would like her to.

ひだまりの詩（Le Couple）- one of the theme songs to one of my favourite Jdramas "「ひとつ屋根の下２」. Easy listening at its best.

フレンズ（レベッカ）- a rare rock favourite!

Other songs from the list that I like but didn't vote for:

CAN YOU CELEBRATE?（安室奈美恵) - my fave song of Namie.

津軽海峡冬景色（石川さゆり）- one of the few 演歌 that I enjoy but maybe because she has one of the best voices.　

天城越え（石川さゆり）- really powerful performance every time!　

聖母たちのララバイ（岩崎宏美）- Not my favourite song from Hiromi but definitely one of her best.

Automatic（宇多田ヒカル）- I like 宇多田ヒカル most amongst the younger singers and this is a good catchy number.

First Love（宇多田ヒカル）- I liked 宇多田ヒカル after this song. Beautiful intro ...

負けないで（ZARD）- A classic.

人生いろいろ（島倉千代子）- Another one of those rare playful 演歌.

亜麻色の髪の乙女（島谷ひとみ）- nice melody.

桃色吐息（高橋真梨子）- Yes, I agree with Hamu she needs a stylist ... seriously!!

喝采（ちあきなおみ）- Beautiful megahit in 1972!

つぐない（テレサ・テン）- Teresa, Oh Teresa! Such a loss ...　

時の流れに身をまかせ（テレサ・テン）- Arguably her biggest hit because she sang it twice in 紅白.

LOVE LOVE LOVE（DREAMS COME TRUE）- Love this song! Their best!

地上の星（中島みゆき）- Her TV performance was so moving!

涙そうそう（夏川りみ）- I really adore this song and it will go down in history as a classic but I would like to see her sing another song for once. I remember how none of us had seen or heard this before 紅白 in 2002, and then we were all mesmerised by her simple yet powerful performance.

青い珊瑚礁（松田聖子）- like Hamu, for old time's sake, but no Little Bo Peep please!!

赤いスイートピー（松田聖子）- her signature song! It was after this song that she gained female fans. Up till then, most of her fans were male.

あなたに逢いたくて～Missing You～（松田聖子) - Not one of my faves, but because I love her ...　

Everything（Misia) - one of the best Misia songs.

越冬つばめ（森　昌子）- another one of those rare 演歌 that I really like.

雨の慕情（八代亜紀) - love the hand action! Unforgettable.　

いい日旅立ち（山口百恵）- one of my Top 5 faves.

秋桜（山口百恵）- No. 1 fave because of the lyrics and Akina!

あの鐘を鳴らすのはあなた（和田アキ子）- this is one of her best songs!

My Revolution（渡辺美里）- another classic.

白組編

I haven't heard too many songs off the list, so I will pick my faves.

ワインレッドの心（安全地帯）- I love 安全地帯 and this was another song I voted for.

少年時代（井上陽水）- Beautiful and simple. One of his best!

ラブ・ストーリーは突然に（小田和正)

贈る言葉（海援隊）

なごり雪（風）- I actually voted for this song as well, but for イルカ actually. I heard 榊原郁恵 cover it on 紅白 in 1982. Silly me to think that she would sing such a beautiful song. Ha! Ha!

愛は勝つ（KAN）

君がいるだけで（米米CLUB）- For Akina.

YOUNG MAN（西城秀樹）- Classic!　

上を向いて歩こう（坂本　九）- Classic!

いとしのエリー（サザンオールスターズ）- Classic!　

TSUNAMI（サザンオールスターズ）- Classic!

関白宣言（さだまさし）- Classic!　

勝手にしやがれ（沢田研二）- I heard it covered by 福山雅治 first on his fantastic cover album and then watched Julie perform this in 1977, which has got to be one of the most boring 紅白 I have ever watched. Most of the songs were crap and this was such a refreshing change!　

仮面舞踏会（少年隊）- Wonderful acrobatics and theatrics!

世界に一つだけの花（SMAP）

昴（谷村新司）- I heard this song when my uncle played it while he gave us a lift on his Subaru when I was 8 or 10. A classic that has been performed way too many times.　

SAY YES（CHAGE&ASKA）- Classic! Their best song!

ルビーの指環（寺尾　聰）- Classic!　

乾杯（長渕　剛）- Classic!　

とんぼ（長渕　剛）- Classic!

瞳をとじて（平井　堅）

どんなときも。（槇原敬之）- Classic!

襟裳岬（森　進一）- another one of those rare 演歌 that I like.

クリスマス・イブ（山下達郎）- an evergreen.

So, did you vote and did any of your favourite songs end up in the list?

明菜、紅白で19年ぶり「DESIRE」

歌手中森明菜（40）が、86年以来19年ぶりにNHK紅白歌合戦で大ヒット曲「DESIRE」を歌うことが20日までに濃厚になった。今日21日に大みそか恒例の第56回紅白歌合戦で聴きたい歌を調査する「スキウタ～紅白みんなでアンケート」の上位100曲が発表されるが、紅組10位だった10月6日の中間発表と同様に、「DESIRE」は上位にランクされる見込み。　

非公式ながら明菜サイドも出場の打診を受けているもようで、02年に「飾りじゃないのよ涙は」で14年ぶりに出場して以来8回目の出場は確実だ。　

「スキャンダルさえ　時代のエクスタシーよ」と歌い、レコード大賞を受賞した同曲は、明菜の代表曲として根強い人気を誇っている。40歳を迎え初のシングル「落花流水」を12月7日にリリースするが、明菜自身の希望でカップリング曲に「DESIRE」を選ぶほど、こだわりの1曲でもある。　

また、「落花流水」は過去数々のヒット曲を生んだテレビ東京の10時間時代劇「天下騒乱徳川三代の陰謀」（来年1月2日放送）の主題歌に起用される。年末年始が明菜再ブレークのきっかけになるかもしれない。
（日刊スポーツ） - 11月21日9時52分更新

It's the first piece of positive news from a more reliable source that Akina will very likely sing "Desire" at Kohaku this year, 19 years after she first sang it in 1986. I beleve they are expecting her to feature strongly on tonight's 「スキウタ～紅白みんなでアンケート」on NHK, which Ranbi san has very sadly announced that he will not have access to the program.

On another report on Akina, which is promotion for her new single 「落花流水」, it is revealed that Akina is the first female vocalist to be selected for a period drama. I believe there are only 3 episodes, each spanning 10 hours. It is also the first time it has been confirmed that it is the theme song, and Akina personally selected the 2005 cover of "Desire" as the coupling song.

http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200511/gt2005112112.html

There will be so much to look forward to if Akina does sing "Desire" this year and I remember that the last time they linked Akina with 紅白 was in 2002, which was her previous appearance. So, I see that as a good sign. Afterall, I know I had placed quite a few votes, so let's hope we're all gleaming from face to face tomorrow!

Official Fanclub Member

In my 22 years as a fan of Akina, I have never entertained the thought of being her or any singer's fanclub member. Maybe it had to do with a lack of income rather than a desire ... but today, I have received my membership card in the mail, making me one of those who officially support her career.

A duo of Singaporeans joined the fanclub at the same time, but I think I am the first to receive the membership card. Hooray!! It makes everything official and I am now a name in the database, though if she could recall the person she waved to during her concert on the 17th July (but I doubt so), a face as well. I am now wondering if I am the first and only fan living in Australia as well.

It seems an impetuous thing to do, like something someone would do in their teens and I am far passed it, but there is strangely a great sense of belongingness now. She has been in my life for the past 22 years and she is approaching her 25th year in showbiz (in 2007). So, I can't think of a better way to say Thank You for everything, the wonderful songs, anticipation and memories ... and I wish for more wonderful days to come ...

Marzipan Babies?

My first thought: Aren't they cute and don't they look amazing!!





If you thought they were real babies or premature foetus, then you are very wrong. The email that accompanied these photos said that they were made from Marzipan.

Definition of Marzipan Almond Paste: a sweet paste made of ground almonds and sugar, often with egg whites or yolks, used as a layer in cakes or molded into ornamental shapes




They look so amazingly real, especially since they are photographed in the Anne Geddes mode, where all babies look so ethereal. I was forwarded this email with a note that said "I could eat them all".

Thank God I googled "Marzipan Babies, and found that it is only a myth that they were made from marzipan, but this Camille Allen and this other website says it's made out of polymer clay or resin, and they're not edible.

For me, I love babies way too much to ever be able to pop one of these in my mouth, even if they are really edible. It just seems wrong! I just want to cradle and smooth them ...

38歳本田美奈子さん死去、白血病で (Updated)

I woke up this morning to the shocking news that 本田美奈子さん, a Japanese mid 80's pop singer turned musical actress died yesterday (6th) at 4.38 am in the hospital. There is a added touch of melancholic sadness because she is the first Japanese singer that I had seen in flesh. I will always remember that even though I wasn't a big fan, I liked her song 「Temptation」when I first heard it. She soon became famous with bigger hits like 「1986年のマリリン」and 「Sosotte」- my favourite Minako single together with 「Oneway Generation」.

She was in Singapore in 1986 to promote her new album (I think it was the English "Help") and many fans gathered around Stamford Raffles Hotel to catch a glimpse of her. Being fans of Familiar Music Library (who was influential in getting her down from Japan), Leslie and I excitedly waited for her arrival. Leslie even drew a cat (Minako's symbol) on a T-shirt and we all signed on it, waiting for our chance to pass it on to her. When we saw her finally, she was quickly ushered away onto the lift lobby, where Leslie suddenly screamed "美奈子さん", and threw the T-shirt at her. She catched it, said Thanks and entered the lift. That was our closest encounter with any Japanese popstar till then.

The Japanese newspapers reported earlier in January that 美奈子さん was diagnosed with lukaemia and was rushed into hospital. She did make a recovery, release a now final album "Ave Maria" and was apparently rushed back into hospital after a relapse in October. Her one wish was to be back on the musical stage, where she played "Miss Saigon", her most popular performance. I remember watching her on "The Best 10" special a few years back when she was invited again, and was so impressed by her vocal prowess. She has transformed into a soprano and had a much wider range than she was when she was a pop singer.

It was reported that the chemotherapy affected her slight frame and as her hair fell, she spent her time in hospitals designing bandanas for herself. She also indulged in writing letters to friends and fans, and even though she is affected physically and emotionally, crying over her illness, she had a strong will and looked forward to recovering in time for her 20th anniversary celebration by appearing in more events this year. Apparently, 岩崎宏美さん, who is now performing in musicals visited her on the 5th (a day before 美奈子さん died) and she was still able to reply in a loud voice. Alas ...

Her family released a statement saying that "Literal: She looks like she is sleeping gently. You look back and everyone is deeply expressing "Waaa ...", an angel is finally smiling ...". My translation is not so good but I hope you get the gist of it. You can read the full article here.

This once again highlights how temporary and fragile life is ... some of us get opportunities in life to realise how important it is to live life fully, even when struck with a "death sentence" like this. Others are not so lucky and never get another chance. Cherish life and live like everyday is your last ...

Updates:

Inspite of the lack of news coverage of her death in newspapers in Singapore, it is good to know that Japan is shocked and her news is flooding. It was reported that 2700 people paid their last respectsyesterday, including 1200 fans and many celebrities:

秋元康、天海祐希、ＡＮＲＩ、今井清隆、井森美幸、岩崎宏美、大場久美子、小倉智昭、かたせ梨乃、河相我聞、岸田敏志、工藤夕貴、シルビア、涼風真世、高嶋ちさ子、高嶋政伸、立花理佐、寺脇康文、徳光和夫、中村繁之、夏木マリ、西田敏行、野田義治、服部克久、早見優、ヒロミ、松本伊代、松本典子、宮沢和史、村井国夫、ＹＵ―ＫＩ（五十音順、敬称略）

There were some rumors Akina made some comments too but Akina fans have not written down what the newspapers say.

All they have is 南野陽子が泣き崩れ、岩崎宏美が言葉を失った。(which means Hiromi is lost for words and Nanno is sobbing till she is close to collapsing because Minako was her close friend (and rival).

Minako also wrote a song 「笑顔」during March in the hospital but they have not decided on a release date for the CD. Here are the lyrics she wrote:

「笑顔」

子供も、大人も、おじいちゃんも、おばあちゃんも、みんな、みんな　笑っている顔が素敵。怒っている顔よりも、泣いている顔よりも、困っている顔よりも　笑顔が一番！！

(Children, adults, grandfather, grandmothers, everyone, everyone, your laughing face is cute. Comparing expressions of anger, sorrow and troubled faces, the smiling face is number one!!)

きっと笑顔が幸せを呼ぶと、頭では分かっていても、心では、なかなか分からない人が、多いんじゃないのかナ！？　心が開いて、心の目で、周りを見渡してごらん、きっと、小さな幸せの芽が、見つかるよ。そして、そこから少しずつ、笑顔が生まれてくる。笑顔が生まれ始めたら、喜びに変わるのも、もうすぐ。　

(Certainly, when the face is speaking happiness and the mind understands, there are still many people whose heart does not!? Open your heart and its eyes will see, in search of its surroundings, a happy little bud will be found. And, little by little, the smiling face is born from there. When it is born, it turns to joy almost immediately.)

でも人は生きていて、辛い時、悲しい時、涙が止まらず心が開けない時、勿論、沢山あると思う。そんな時は、あせらないでね。自分だけが不幸ではない。もっと、心が暗闇に閉じこめられている人達も、沢山いることを、少しだけ思い出してみて。

(So in life, when being harsh, sad, or when the tears don't stop and the heart does not open, we will of course think of Sawayama. At such times, aren't we a little rash. We are not unlucky. Moreover, hearts are closed in darkness, we should remember a little of Sawayama.)

自分の力で、心を開く人もいれば、誰かの愛で、心を開いてもらう人もいる。気が付かないうちに心が開いている人もいれば、歌や音楽で、心が開く人もいる。それは、人それぞれだと思うの。　

(By your own power or by someone else, your heart will be opened with someone's love. You might perceive that your heart is opened by song and music. As for that, you think that everyone is the same.)

人は心が閉じたり、開いたり、いろいろな経験、そして、沢山心で感じることによって豊かな心を持ち、豊かな笑顔を育てて行けるのではないのかナ！？と私は思います。自分自身、豊かな笑顔が増えたら、きっと周りにいる人達にも、幸せ届ける事が出来るでしょう。　笑顔がいちばん

(Whether your heart is open or closed because of various experiences, when you are unable to keep raising the rich smiling face, feel the richness of Sawayam's heart, which I do. When your rich smiling face increases, it is possible to infect this happiness with the people around you. The smiling face is number one.)

This is my first feeble attempt to translate any songs in Japanese, so I do expect many errors in the progress. To be totally honest, I used some translation services, but what came out of it is usually so fumbled, I have to re-read the Japanese many times to decipher what they really mean. I am sure there are more lyrical and poetic translations available but I hope I caught the gist of the meaning of the song .... to keep smiling ...

My Brother

There is something quite special about the bond that brothers share, which can transform from idolship to sibling rivalry to even best friends. It is not exactly the same as it is with brother and sister, because there is always a part of me that wants to take care of my sister, not in the same way as I would with my brother. It's a more masculine relationship, and though we might not necessarily fight, compliments and gratitude do not flow in the same natural fashion from one to another. I found that for me, we have to learn it when we speak to someone else about our brothers,

It is with boredom last night that I decided to watch my first Korean movie. My friends and family (like most of Asia now) have been swamped with Korean dramas and movies, but I have been a laggard, only succumbing a week's ago by Korean actor Won Bin's boyish charm. When I was back in Singapore, a friend had recommended this movie "My Brother" saying that it was quite good, but I didn't really act on it till a few weeks ago when it was placed in the specials bin.

In a typical story about two brothers brought up by their mother, there are many surprises along the way. The elder brother, Sung-Hyun (Shin Ha-kyun), is born hare-lipped and the mother works hard to afford him through operations to cure him. He is studious but timid. In expressing her biased love for the older boy because of his "imperfection", she openly neglects her younger son, Jong-Hyun (Won Bin) and he turns out, not surprisingly, to be stronger and rebellious. As they step through adolescence and their teenage years trying to discover themselves, they naturally grow further apart because of their differences. It takes a freak incident of their mother losing her savings to bring them closer together, understanding the sacrifices that they both make for each other, and why their mother so strongly favoured one over the other. The story might be familiar but there is surprisingly no romance, which makes for a fresh change and both actors give rather polished performances for their relative young ages, eliciting shared emotions from the viewers as well, making it a rather personal and enjoyable experience for me.

One of the most poignant scenes is when the elder brother wants his younger brother to call him "brother" once again but the wilful boy doesn't. Watching this movie reminded me of my relationship with my brother. Like them, we share a closer connection to our mother, and though our mother was not that biased, I could always tell that Julian was the apple of her eye. I didn't feel inferior or jealous, but there were few incidents along the way that made me feel like the younger (more disadvantaged) brother in the movie. On the same note, I might not see the different perception that my brother might have on my mother's "preferential" treatment towards me as well.

Julian and I moved through stages. I remember him when he was a little boy (there is a 4 year age gap) and how I would love to kiss him because he was so cute when he was a boy (and my parents were the kissy sort). He would in turn end up scratching my face, ending up with scars on my face as I grew up. He never "indulged" in hero-worship, or would not comment on it like my sister did, because I think he was terribly private, even when he was younger. We didn't fight like most brothers do, but we would do things to irritate the shits out of each other, like slapping each other for no reason and telling lies like brothers sometimes do to parents, so that the other would get into trouble. Then, he became a Christian, parted and we went different ways.

It was only through us living in Australia outside the family, that we were acquainted once again and this sharing allowed us to rekindle and redevelop the brotherhood bond that I felt never hit puberty. For the first time, I was matured enough to realise that it was my big opportunity, not only to do my part as a brother, but also to show how much I care for him. I believe that my independence in Australia and my personal acceptance for who I am allowed me to be comfortable enough to show my love. Though we would not be kissing, hugging or touching each other because I respect his privacy (that hasn't changed), I feel that through the years that we lived together, I knew him as a person instead of just my brother.

Now that he is back in Singapore and away, and in some respects, I know we will never be as closed again, I am happy we had those days together. People who really know us understand that we are poles apart, me for my openness and my emotional being, and him being very private, but I think in spite of the differences (just like the two brothers in the movie), there are many unspoken sacrifices, love and admiration for each other.

I used to grow up with him calling me "brother (哥哥)", but as we grow older, it has now changed to just "James". In some ways, it is a maturing process, but to me it is less endearing. It is interesting that Asian cultures preserve this tradition of having terms for everyone, instead of just using our names, as if it is a replacement for hugs and kisses that our Western counterparts present.

It's not that names necessarily mean anything significant but just like the elder brother in the movie, I wish he would address me as brother once again.

Jpop Blog - 80's Favourite Music

80's Japanese Music

Just wanted to introduce a blog that I have been visiting quite a bit recently because of its nostalgic value. Since 80's Jpop is the music of "my era", I was naturaly quite tickled by the diverse artistes that this blog actually covers.

It is not only a way to revisit the old songs and cover arts, but also a great way for me to improve my Japanese. Usually, I'm a little too impatient and will read only the kanji and try to decipher the entire message. Being something that is of interest, I find myself taking the time not only to read the editor's comments about each single/album, but also the comments left by the "fans". Sometimes I understand, sometimes I don't, just like my agreements with the coments.

My Japanese is not up to scratch to reply there, but it has been a nice journey. Incidentally, the artiste with the most number of posts that he has written on is not surprisingly, Akina. I hope you will enjoy this blog as much as I did.