Scans by iloveayu.com

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Album 『(miss)understood』 Release

Hamasaki Ayumi + 『(miss)understood』 = Misunderstood!?

The outline of planes taking off and landing in the far-off distance, the gentle flow of the stream nearby, and the wide leaden sky overhead… On that day in November, full of signs of the coming winter, our subject took decisive action. After one year, with her new work, Hamasaki Ayumi. In order to sound out her new self, we present this 20-page special!

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ALBUM INTERVIEW

New album, “(miss)understood”. What kind of image surfaced in ayu’s mind while she was making this album? What stance did she take, and how did she approach the project? Now that the work is completed, she reveals the production process.

One single song can have many different facets, just like how we humans are. (laugh)

The title for the album this time, “(miss)understood”, has quite a deep meaning behind it.
“The “miss” does not mean “mistake” the way it does in misunderstood, but its a “miss” similar to “mister” and “missus”. That’s why, “(miss)understood” can stand for both “misunderstood”, as well as “a girl who understands”.”

So there is a double meaning.
“Yes. Those “misunderstood” scenarios which are recognized as “misunderstandings”, often happen in real life. As humans, everyone has had misunderstandings, right? There are also probably times when a person himself is being misunderstood. No matter how high we wish to go, we will always think that the present is the boundary. No matter how much we trust someone, we will still be afraid to let that person come too close to us. And though we understand all of this, we are still willing to accept the fact that the world is full of misunderstandings. That’s human nature. That’s why, though there exists many different meanings of the word for me, I find it alright for everyone to find the meaning which is most convenient for them, and define it for themselves.”

What you said about “understanding” and “misunderstanding” is true. But when I listened to the album, I thought that most of the songs linked together very well.
“It just happened somehow, even though I didn’t specially decide on a theme. At a glance, there are quite a few songs which are about “the love between you and me”. But, actually, rather than a song which is sung by me, they are more like songs in which you are the protagonist, singing to me. I don’t know why, but many songs came out this way.”

Yes yes. That’s why, even though it’s a love song, after listening more closely, I wondered if the song is really talking about something else entirely. For example, “fairyland”. At first, it’s a feeling of happiness just listening to the song, and one gets a cute and glittery feeling. But after listening to it many times, one gets the feeling that there is something dark behind the song, something like the dark side of human nature. With such a muddled thing mixed into the song, it is not just about the shine anymore. It becomes a work that constantly reminds you of the shadow behind your back.
“This album has 16 songs altogether, including 2 instrumental tracks. Even the relatively up-tempo songs talk about rather surreal themes, making the song content very heavy and dark. I didn’t realize this at all till I put the entire album together. Because of this, I had a hard time trying to decide the sequence of the songs. (laugh) But, if I looked at the lyrics booklet while listening to the songs, I could hear them being sung by a cute girl, a girl who is worrying over love. Thus I was able to listen to them with a lighter heart, sort of like listening to background music flowing softly out of a room. Whenever I am thinking of many different things, or when I am looking to find myself, just looking at my lyrics booklet while listening to the songs really helps me to see the other side of things. Meaning: matching perfectly with every kind of situation, one single song can have many different facets, just like how we humans are. (laugh)”

(laugh) But that is ultimately because it is already present in our subconscious minds. It will show itself even if we try to lock it in.
“Yep, I think so too.”

Quote: “I find it alright for everyone to find the meaning which is most convenient for them, and define it for themselves.”

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Quote: “Every song definitely carries a message from me. That’s why, if you can pick up that message, if it makes you think about things, I will be really happy.”

It was the same feeling during the “MY STORY” era, but in the lyrical world, the number of instances when lyrics probe into the deeper nature of humans is steadily increasing too, right?
“That’s true. In other words, even though this album has been said to have a heavier feel than, say, “Duty” or “I am…”, I feel that I’ve become unable to say things straight anymore. Dark songs are still dark, sad, and quiet, but recently I’ve felt that it’s even more sorrowful to smile when you are sad. Even though the traditional idea is that sadness will lead to tears, most people nowadays don’t cry anymore. That’s why, it is most painful to watch those who are in real sorrow smile. Maybe my songs have also picked up this quality of not being what it seems on the surface, after I realized this.”

Next question. Though you said that it’s unconscious, did this thought just surface one day by itself? It was probably because of these times we’re in too, right?
“I think so. I’m sure it’s this era now which makes me feel this way. To gather up speed and become super popular, that’s the norm now. Because I don’t watch TV much, I’m not sure what it’s like now, but before this, there was this incident about the radish, wasn’t there?”

Yes, there was. (laugh) A radish which grew up from the cracks in the asphalt, and treated like a hero.
(Misa’s note: probably a TV CM)
“That’s probably it. It was on TV every single day for some time. It wasn’t awesome, but that radish became so popular. (laugh) But it’ll probably be forgotten soon with amazing speed, like all things. Just as if nothing had happened, and everything will settle down quietly again. Everything’s like this nowadays. For example, when you fall in love with something, from the time you start liking it, you’ll spend all your time and energy pursuing it with all your spirit, concentrating on it totally. And when its time is over, you’ll withdraw from it, or discard it completely. That’s actually very scary when you think about it.”

I agree. It’s as if everyone has caught some disease.
“That’s right. Just like when you see that something, you start to reflect it in yourself. For me, when something seems to me happy or sad, it will be reflected in my own mood, even though I may not be thinking of that something. And while people worry about whether this will become another “radish” incident, they are also enjoying the fad. Everyone thinks that everyone else feels the way they do. If that’s not the case, then I feel that this speed of liking-then-forgetting won’t even exist in the first place.”

I think everyone is just going with the flow.
“Just like in the title track “(miss)understood”, “these people who seem so kind, probably just wish to find something out from you”. And after that, “at the back of those gentle eyes, are hidden knives of curiosity” at the song’s climax. Somehow, I’ve started seeing everything in this light. But while that is probably a misunderstanding on my part, it is also probably an understanding of the true situation around us, even if we don’t realize or understand it. Therefore, my ideas of “it’s not that far from the truth” are probably wrong. That’s why, when nothing in the world is right, this era seems like a lie, which makes me both sad and fearful.”

That’s why we’re slowly losing sight of the things which we hold precious and dear. Listening to this album with this thought in mind, I feel like I’m getting a part of myself back, and really getting to understand what it is that is precious to me. That’s the message I’m getting from the album.
“Probably, because everyone understands what is really precious and essential to them. It’s not that we’re losing sight of these things. Rather, it’s because we are unable to honestly declare what it is that’s precious to us. I think it’s hard to step out and make yourself understood. Even if you could do it, you can’t say that it will make your life easier. But even if life gets tough, the fact that you have stepped out is something which will remain with you. And that is something which is important.”

Those people who dare to step out and speak out are really brave. I’ve been hearing this strength come from Hamasaki-san’s songs lately, telling us to take control of our own lives and live with strength. That’s the message I get from your songs.
“I totally didn’t realize that either, but I’ve been singing about it lots recently, haven’t I? To live like you want to live, I’m probably singing it to myself too. That’s probably why I’ve been singing about it, with this determination.”

With this determination, what are the things which Hamasaki Ayumi think are essential to her from now on?
“What’s essential… Probably the ability to slowly widen the boundaries of my freedom, so that I’ll be able to fly as if I have wings. There’s no use in having wings if you keep them closed. But while you come to understand things, having the confidence to handle the responsibilities that come along with it are the first signs of freedom. Whenever you do something that you like, there will be many consequences, both good and bad. But if you run away from all responsibility, that is not freedom, but selfishness instead. So, I wish to gain more freedom. Moreover, the idea of freedom transcends our everyday lives, so we need to revise that determination everyday. And when we do so, the responsibilities which come along with it will increase too. That’s probably why I wish for strength, though I think I’m already actually stronger than what I was in the past.”

Thinking that way, I guess what you have most firmly in your mind would emerge in your songs naturally, wouldn’t it?
“It would. That’s why songs are real, even if some of the situations which I wrote about in those songs are fictional. Because life is easier to understand if we compare it to love and romance!”

The songs would be easier to receive for listeners, too. Anyway, every song of yours holds a message. That’s why listening to Hamasaki-san’s songs always makes one think about things. Just like what you said earlier, even if listening to your songs as BGM, one is bound to pick up some message. That’s the feeling I get.
“That’s why, it’s alright with me if you wish to think a song is cute, or interesting, but I hope that that will not be the only thought that comes to your mind. That’s why this album, “(miss)understood” exists. Every song definitely carries a message from me, no matter what kind of riddles there are, or how I hide and cover it up. That’s why, if you can pick up that message, and if it makes you think about things, I will be really happy.”

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Quote: “About misunderstanding, and understanding. This is a song which spans both viewpoints, that’s why the video is that way too. Because the video’s theme is “sorrow”…”

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SELF LINER

Bold&Delicious
To summarise, the moment I heard the demo, I wanted to sing! “I want to sing now!” That’s the feeling of this song. I think it’s something new. However, there aren’t many ways that you can make an impact. Like, “Ah, that’s ayu’s new work”. Hmm, will it generate this reaction? I don’t think so, it’s more like “Eh? This!?” Therefore, though I wonder about how everyone will react to this song, there is no need to feel uneasy. Because I believe that I can get the message across.

STEP you
After the wonderful sense of accomplishment I felt with “MY STORY”, I thought about what I wanted to do next. Then, the moment I received the demo tape for this song and listened to it, “That’s it!” I actually had other songs which I’ve already finished, but I changed all my plans. (laugh) Because it was the first song which came after “MY STORY” that really struck me, I managed to write out lyrics at top speed.

Ladies Night
A glimpse of the conversations between guileless girls. And even though it doesn’t really reflect the true nature of women, I think that as you get closer and closer to the end, the real character starts to come out. But, of course, if you listen to it thinking that it is a mere song sung by cute girls, it probably won’t be as interesting for you. Even during lives, this song gives an awesome climatic feel, and that is something to look forward to.

is this LOVE?
Coming straight from the heart, a song that begins really softly with many details, then explodes with drama, there is no hesitation here. When I first listened to it, I could imagine myself singing it. And even though I really love Yo-chan’s guitar playing here, because I had to change costumes at that point during a-nation, I could never watch him. I wish I could watch from the audience seats, just once. (laugh)

(miss)understood
For my songs, even though I use the word “I”, it does not always reflect my own feelings and ideas. From my perspective, it is still “me” in some respect. “(miss)understood” is just like what its title suggests, about misunderstanding, or understanding. This is a song which spans both viewpoints, and I think that even just reading the lyrics, it will still be interesting.

alterna
This is a song with a unique melody that fully showcases the charm of CMJK in its arrangement. When one really listens to it again, one will understand the freedom and frankness with which the song was made. Like what the lyrics read, whether you do something or not, the end result will be criticized. Therefore, you feel that “what’s the use!” (laugh) Whatever you do, someone is bound to say something, so just do things the way you want to.

In The Corner
I’ve always wanted to write a song that has a totally disinterested feel. A song that doesn’t seek to appeal, nor sadden, but seems to be completely emotionless. I wanted to sing such a totally indifferent song. Something that won’t cause any excitement, something indifferent right to the end, like a monologue. That’s why I lowered the song’s key. It’s like a song with a stylish but indifferent background music, with deep lyrics.

criminal
Though the title suggests a person who has commited a sin, it is actually not that kind of sin which is related to the law. Humans sin every single day, small trivial sins. So this is a song that talks deeply about one’s own sins, and how to face them.

Pride
This song too. I wanted to sing it so much once I heard the demo. However, it is not a song which has a hidden strength. Rather than a single person singing with loneliness, it has the feeling of everyone shouting together for something unseen. For that, I had a group of people, ranging from elementary school children to those in their 50s, as chorus together with me. I felt that it was really cool to have such a considerable number of people singing together. This was definitely CMJK-san’s masterpiece.

Will
This song is often said to be different from usual, in terms of my singing style, but in a good way. Everyone liked the strong feelings they felt from the song. However, I never had any intention of changing my vocal style. That’s why I think those feelings were aroused by the power of the melody or lyrics instead. It actually has the feeling of one who is thinking while she’s singing. So in the end, this became a super powerful ballad.

HEAVEN
Even though Kazu-bou (Kazuhito Kikuchi) and I took a long time in creating this song, we were always wondering “so when does the song’s climax start?” When we thought a part was the climax, it turned out that it wasn’t, and we kept feeling that the climax would come after. Both of us found this predicament really interesting. Although there are many times when I’ll just use the melody from a demo and change the arrangement totally, for this song, I chose to keep to the original demo as much as possible.

fairyland
During production, I was always changing some parts of the song by myself. With the feeling of the light shining on me, aah, I felt like I was moving towards a new place. At first glance, it seems like the usual glittery, shiny song, but it’s not just that. I loved the line which said “we are now at the closest place to forever”, maybe it was because that was what I was feeling at the moment itself.

Beautiful Day
Everybody just wants to make everyday beautiful and wonderful, but how should you go about achieving that? Isn’t that what everyone thinks about constantly? This song is one which sets you a question: “Well then, what is a beautiful and wonderful day like for you?” Deep down, you already know the answer, right? It is just difficult to take the steps necessary to fulfill it. This is a song that wants to know how you feel about this.

rainy day
“It’s such a pretty and cute song, I want to sing it!” Aside from that, it feels like a song which you will whisper to the most important person, in a voice so soft that no one else can hear it. It has the unique style of a song from GEO of SWEETBOX, and the structure of the song is very interesting too. It makes the listener question “Hmm, has the song ended?” “Hmm, is this the climax here?” (laugh) It is really a very addictive piece.

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ABOUT NY & HAWAII

During the summer of 2005, the PV for super popular hit number “fairyland” was filmed in Hawaii. Then, the just-released “Bold&Delicious/Pride” had their PVs filmed in New York. With these, ayu has expanded her production process out of Japan. Presenting her thoughts about crossing the ocean to visit these 2 places, and experiences about the production process over there.

We were all so overwhelmed by the scale of things, that we felt it wasn’t the time or place to be complaining about lack of sleep and tiredness!

“fairyland”‘s video clip, which was filmed in Hawaii, was done on a massive scale.
“That was really awesome~ Really really awesome. Even so, I didn’t get to sleep for 3 whole days. I think that to still be able to move after no rest for so long was an awesome experience as a human.”

To be fine even after going 3 days without sleep, everyone’s spirits must be really high then?
“Somehow, we were all so overwhelmed by the scale of things, that we felt it wasn’t the time or place to be complaining about lack of sleep and tiredness. And even though I was in the PV myself, it also felt like I was a spectator. To be able to witness a scene completed first-hand is a really luxurious feeling. And because it’s really interesting seeing these things from different angles, sleeping felt like a waste of time. (laugh) It’s like, this is the only time you’ll be able to do this in your life, so I just had to try it. (laugh)”

That image is definitely about light and darkness, eh? While you were immersed in happiness, things started to burn. Hamasaki-san, you seemed to be personally affected on all fronts by that scene. That’s why it probably represents your personal worldview?
“That’s right. It’s constantly about light and darkness, and towards the end, what is equivalent to beauty that is always present within me. Why do beautiful things never last forever? The moment of beauty lasts all the way till the end, and the sorrow of its loss is strong. Sometimes, because it was so beautiful, one feels one’s heart beat fast, and saying words will just destroy the moment. There is that danger. That is why beautiful things make people feel somewhat sad, and fearful. It’ll be great if beauty can last forever.”

“fairyland” illustrated that point on a massive scale. And though totally differing in content, the scale of “Bold&Delicious” is equally large. In that PV, there were moments which reflected your true nature, and those moments are really rare, aren’t they?
“There’s a very clear distinction between onscreen and offscreen. The onscreen “Hamasaki Ayumi” whom the world sees is that one with the big eyes, right? (laugh)
There are scenes of me like this, and scenes which are not. This mixture of onscreen and offscreen personalities was very interesting.”

So it’s like a presentation of a collage between onscreen and offscreen personalities. Because I’ve always watched your works, I have this query. For example, when you are in your onscreen mode as “Hamasaki Ayumi” during “Bold&Delicious”, or in any other PVs, you have to enter into that PV’s world, right? Even if you are actually happy, or actually sad, you manage to put on a specific facade to fit the PV perfectly. I’ve always admired you for that.
“When I film a PV, I always think deeply about the subject matter. And as new ideas surface, we discuss them throughout production. But in the end, I decide on what I want to do through my “inner director”, and draw the idea out. Then I think about how that drawing is able to bring me closer to what I have in mind.”

So the final judge is your “inner director”?
“Yes. That’s why it’s really rough material. For example, sorrow; there are many different kinds of sorrow, right? Amidst that, I use my “inner director” to choose. Am I looking for a heartbreaking sort of sorrow, or am I looking for a warmer sort of sorrow? I go all the way into the details, in order to come close to the drawing I have in my mind. That’s why I personally look forward to the completion of my music videos, because I was able to convey the direction I felt at that time and be understood.”

So you really do go into the details for each and every PV when producing them.
“Even during the production of “Bold&Delicious”; when it was finished, I kept hearing that the staff who worked on the PV had many questions about me. For example, I smiled during filming while lip-syncing to the audio. Then, I had the same smile on my face when I was talking with the staff between filming times. I felt that people were questioning “which is ayu’s real smile?”, or “which smile is the one that shows that ayu is really enjoying herself?” And even “she’s wearing such beautiful clothes, and such beautiful jewelry, and have people making up her hair and face beautifully. Plus, she’s in the spotlight all the time. But, do I really envy this girl?””

But even when not in the spotlight, the real ayu probably smiles and laughs with her staff, right?
“Yep. Because it feels really good to do that, we could work through even the sorrowful PVs.”

I see. That’s very surreal.
“”Bold&Delicious” is super high and exciting, and the assertive singing is cool too. But if you can sense the sorrow behind it, then I’ll be glad. That’s why the PV is like this too, because it’s theme is “sorrow”. It is the same with those questions about my smile. No one may wish to know why, or try to understand. It is not compulsory for you to be curious. You can catch a glimpse of that sorrow, and receive it passively from the sidelines. There is probably a meaningless distance between your hand, which receives, and my hand, which gives. At a glance, even in a video which apparently holds no meaning, there is surely a message hidden inside. If you can realize that while watching it, I’m sure you will find it very interesting.”

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ABOUT 2005

As per usual, ayu was the first to usher in 2005 during her Countdown Live at Yoyogi National Gymnasium. Since then, a year has swiftly passed by. Like a sort of biography, ayu recalls what 2005 was like for her.

When I injured myself for no good reason, I just thought it interesting and laughed it off.

2005 was really an energetic year, wasn’t it?
“Yes. It was a year with many happenings. There was no time to even say “I’m tired”, and it felt like I was facing up to new things all the time. (laugh) Of course, I had my own expectations of myself, and there were times when I wondered “Why do these kinds of things have to happen now?” However, expectations remained expectations in the end, and the instances where I met or surpassed them were few. Unexpected things were the norm, instead. That’s why, even though I couldn’t rely on my feelings, I enjoyed relying totally on my temperament. That was probably my 2005.”

You held firmly onto your courage?
“Yes. Even though accidents occurred, they were so trivial so I just laughed them off. (laugh) For example, when I injured myself for no good reason, I just thought it interesting and laughed it off.”

That alone probably relieved some pressure off of your emotions. But because of that, no matter how much energy you put into your activities, there probably were lots of things you couldn’t do.
“Yep. I slowly saw how I couldn’t do some things which I planned to do. But I think the good people and things around me probably helped me accept everything about myself and move forward. That’s why, even when I thought something was unachievable, I still always managed to achieve it in the end. But that is definitely not something which I could have done if I was alone. The people around me gave me the support and strength, and I am grateful for everything that those people have done for me.”

The staff probably felt the same way about you too. But the fans too, their voices are also one factor which lent you support, right? For this year’s a-nation, you only missed the Hokkaido show because of poor health. But after that, you still went down to Hokkaido to do a public recording. Was that because the fans’ voices gave you support, and you felt that you had to give them a reply, no matter how small?
“There were probably many many people who have worked or studied hard for many months, just for that opportunity to show their support on that day. Like how kids will think “I’ll work hard to finish my homework, then I’ll be free to go that day!” After I thought about it that way, I felt really sorry. It’s just not enough to say “I’ll see you next year!”, right? After I got better, I wanted to go see them and show them that I’m well. Because there were surely people who worried, so to ease their minds, I felt that I had to do something. That was what it was like.”

The fans really treasure you, don’t they?
“I’m always thinking about how I can show my sincere thanks to everyone. Yet, no matter how much I wish to give my thanks, I’m not an individual anymore. “ayu” has sort of become like a group name. That’s why, while I can’t do things at my own will and whim anymore, I still wish to give my gratitude, in any limited way I can. That’s what I always feel.”

And that moved you to action. But that was probably quite difficult to achieve, what with your busy schedule.
“Yep. That’s why I think the people around me who made my wish to go come true were truly wonderful. Then, when I first mentioned that I wished to go, the power and energy that everyone had was amazing too. They are really such a blessing to have.”

By the way, the PV filming and recordings for “Bold&Delicious”, the last single for 2005, were all done in New York. Did you meet with any vocal problems there?
“The sounds there were different, of course, but I wanted to integrate them into my own sound. Plus, I’ve plunged headfirst into unknown territory, and while I compromised as I went along, I chiefly had to adapt myself to every situation which came along. What was I thinking, doing there? When I’ve understood this, how should I go about doing things? I was really interested in that place…”

So New York stimulated and influenced you to change the style of your songs?
“Yep. Many people have told me how much it’s changed. Even the staff present here.”

That powerful energy which you showed in “Bold&Delicious” while driving down that street totally reflects that change.
“That’s right. I think so too. Like something completely different was born. Because humans are sensitive to all these subtle differences. For such a thing to be born, I felt that doing the recording in New York was the right step to take.”

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ABOUT 2006

With Countdown Live at National Yoyogi Gymnasium on New Year’s night, then “(miss)understood” album release on New Year’s Day, ayu opens the door to the new year. What kind of visions does ayu have in her head for the year 2006?

“To be honest and frank about my own feelings. That is not something which is limited to this new year, nor does it mean that I’m starting afresh, but it is something which I’ve always wished to be. Because nobody can change in just one year.”

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Scans by iloveayu.com

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Ayumi Hamasaki Graphics of the Beauty

There is a woman who believes in her own language, walking on without losing her way. When she stands on stage, that small body in the distance cloaked with a large aura manages to bewitch hundreds of thousands of people. An extraordinary songstress, Hamasaki Ayumi redefines the idea of beauty. With her elegance and beauty, she is just like a dancing winter swan.

The secret to having boundless beauty: Trust your instincts, make your own decisions

It’s been 12 years since her debut. When it comes to fashion and beauty, she’s been relying on her own style all this while. On top of that, the single to be released this autumn will be her 50th. A female solo artist with total sales above 20 million copies, only she fits the description. And this issue, we have this extraordinary pop princess, Hamasaki Ayumi gracing our cover.

This shoot was done during precious time taken from her unimaginably hectic schedule, squeezed between PV shootings, recordings, TV show performances… ayu has been sporting a girly and natural look this year, but for this shoot, we requested something edgy and beautiful from her. It’s been quite a long time since she’s bunned up her hair for a magazine shoot.

“I didn’t know what to do at first. Because I haven’t been catching up with the latest trends in fashion and make-up, I didn’t know if I could pull it off.”

But when the shooting started, she adopted a completely different expression from her usual smile, showing us classic beauty. With her hair bunned up, the emphasis was on those large jewel-like eyes, lighted up further by the brown gradient of her eyeshadow. Her lips were done in sexy nude pink, but balanced with her face, it gave a pure look. With this ayu, we talked about what she thinks of beauty.

“For me, make-up is essential for building up self-confidence. Once she has make-up on, a girl’s behaviour and actions change. Even her voice and expressions of her eyes change. I myself have been saved by make-up.”

“Recently, I’ve been into skincare.” In addition to that, even her diet seems to have changed drastically this year.

“Starting from this summer, I had these strange skin rashes, that’s why I’ve totally changed my diet, lifestyle and skincare regime. Now, I’m eating all organic.”

Cutting out all junk food, she’s into microbiotics now. As a result, the rashes and skin problems went away. Trusting in her own instincts, trying out new things, succeeding. That is Hamasaki Ayumi’s recipe for beauty.

The impact of the Komuro sound ayu grew up with

To commemorate the 50th single, 2 singles were released within 2 weeks continuously. And supplying the music for these singles is Mr Komuro Tetsuya, who is working solo with ayu for the first time. We talk about the large impact he had on her life.

“I was the generation that grew up with the TK sound, and there were many times when his music supported me and gave me strength. So when I received his music to work on, it felt really surreal. I couldn’t believe that I could write lyrics for and sing these songs, to be able to participate in creating the sound which I grew up listening to.”

The completion of a circle. Next, she talked about the ideas behind the newly-released songs.

“49th’s [crossroad] is about the adult that I am now, looking back nostalgically at the person I was in the past. 50th single [L]’s [Virgin Road] goes forward into the future, when I have become a full adult with my own family. Though they are separated into 2 singles, they were made at the same time, when I was feeling the same thing.”

[crossroad]’s B-side is a cover of another of Komuro-san’s works, which ayu herself requested to sing. That song is [SEVEN DAYS WAR].

“When I was a student, I requested for this song to be played on radio. And when it came on, I got the entire household to keep quiet so I could make a recording on my cassette tape recorder. That was how much I loved the song. Even though I was still young, I remember having goosebumps whenever I heard the song or read the lyrics.”

This autumn, ayu will celebrate the release of her 50th single since debut with “7 Days Final” tour at Yoyogi National Gymnasium.

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Thanks to behwatch @ AHS for the scans!

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Hamasaki Ayumi Lady in Bloom

A moment from an excellent girly spring

Gently riding on Spring’s light breeze, the song princess AYU is here. Wrapped in well-chosen girly lace, even her hair and make-up give off spring vibes. A must-see: ayu reveals to Bea’s Up alone, her first time usage of brown eyeliner. But the inner voice of this girl has become rock, no matter what fashion she dons on the outside. So how is this girl like inside?

Maybe it’s because spring is here… Fashion and make-up have all taken a girly turn to give off such a style

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She doesn’t remember ever changing her eyeliner, so this may be the first time she’s using a brown one.

Recent make-up has been highlighting her cheeks, with bright pink colours.

—–

A change of clothes, from strength to tenderness, in preparation for a warm spring

On a sunny spring day, amidst the bustle of tour rehearsals and recordings, AYU enters a studio somewhere in the city to do filming for our magazine. The clothes she wore gave off a light and cute feel, something which we have not seen in the past from our beautiful song princess. Her fashion, make-up, nails… AYU, with her current style, brought out the trends of that time, the era of the “girl”. Before this, it had been all about leather, fur, and other such cool stuff, even her jewellry and dresses were elegant and high-class. For a change from this coordination of strength, she dons lace and flowers, creating an impressionable style that is all female.

“When it’s cold, I mostly go with black. For a brighter feel, I use grey. And when it got warmer, I wanted to try giving myself a complete makeover. That’s why my clothes have all become girly and bright recently. (laugh) First, I cut my hair short, and dyed it a brighter colour. Now, or rather recently, I’ve probably been moving towards a brighter direction. In contrast, winter is a dark period, so I always have that kind of dark impression for that time.”

Of course, to fit with the change in fashion, a change in make-up style is essential too. In the past, black eyeliner was always used to enhance the effect of her stunning large eyes, along with her signature long eyelashes.

“Because I was fixated on giving off a feeling of strength, I used black eyeliner. But today, I decided to try out a dark brown eyeliner for the first time, and it’s not bad. (laugh)”

Brown gives off a rather moderate and tender feel that is really gentle. Together with the lightness of her girly fashion, it came off really well. We also noticed that there’s been changes to her blusher recently, often employing colours ranging from orange-brown ~ coral.

“Before this, my cheeks have often been faintly coloured, but they do stand out now. And using bright colours such as pink is probably also a part of my makeover. A note about my previous make-up was the shadow effect from my cheekbones up to the temple, but now, the cheekbones have become the main focus.”

We asked about her trip to London for the new album’s production, which also turned out as a good chance for her to change her skincare regime as well.

“I had this image of a fog-filled city, and it was so cold that my hotel room needed lots of heating. As a result, it became really really dry inside. The local staff actually had to sprinkle water from bottles in the area around my bed. (laugh) That was how dry is was, so I had to take absolute care of my skin, with facial lotion at the very least. And while it didn’t get really bad, I totally realized the importance of moisturizing.”

And after she returned to Japan, an additional item was added to her bedside: the Panasonic Ion Steamer.

“There’s 2 kinds: one which is used while you’re in the bath, and another which is used while you’re sleeping. After I started using them, my skin condition has stabilized, so I’ve become really interested in such beauty-related items recently.”

Since last year, she has been following a full-blown training and jogging routine. Even now, she still keeps the practice of doing these once every 2 days.

“Probably because, if I don’t have the physical strength, I won’t be able to move around and sing while on stage.”

The new album and ayu’s rock

We asked AYU about her just released new album, and the worldview she holds for it.

“The reason why I chose to do the recording in London this time was because I wanted to make an album in a closed-off environment, sort of like a place where sunlight doesn’t reach. The songs this time are like me. They’re not liberal and open-minded. The songs which I’ve always made often share the same views and ideas as the listener, but this time, they’re more like shouts and prayers from my individual innermost self. With this image, I’ve probably gotten closer to how I was like inside when I first debuted. What I do in America has always been liberal and open, so that’s why I chose London this time instead.”

In fact, the music videos filmed in the UK are cold, and seem to possess a deep, meaningful worldview. The album title brings all the tracks to a higher level, and links them to AYU.

“Traditional Japanese, ethnic, European… With all these different sounds mixed together, it’s like a circus. And when I sing, they become rock. Rock is a very wide genre, and can include lots of different types of songs, but when I sing, it becomes rock. For example, even if I dress up in a girly manner like today and sing a ballad, rock will still be rock. And because rock exists in my soul, it will be reflected in whatever I do. The new album’s title “Rock’n’Roll Circus” reflects something interesting, scary, sad, weird, and a whole bunch of others mixed together. And that is what I think Rock&Roll is about.”

And from now on, AYU will start out on a long journey to bring this album to all her fans around the country. That will be something to top last year’s tour, with its 35 tours and 400,000 audience.

“The nationwide tour, which will be starting from now on, will be really enjoyable, so I certainly wish for everyone to come watch it, either alone or with a whole group of friends. I think that a-nation and CDL at the end of the year will be counting on this tour. And this release is something which I’ve planned for this year, so I hope everyone will look forward to it.”

The single that was released at the end of last year was her 47th. And if the releases keep on coming as she says they will, we may even have something as special as a 50th release this year.

The song princess, who is Japan’s representative, continues to run on without stop this year, changing and evolving.

Style and fashion are a reflection of feelings. That is something which cannot be shaken.

Scans by angel-ayu @ aYu][kult

—–

—–

Hamasaki Ayumi Dresses Up in her Favourite Brand’s Pre SS Collection

“This is definitely the person to grace the finale of year 2005!”
With that, we invited Miss AYU to be the last cover girl for this year.
This issue, AYU changed her hairstyle to dark & straight. And with the new lady-like look, she dressed up in the latest items from 3 of her favourite brands, in her cool, elegant, gorgeous way!

D&G

With a dark hair colour, I feel like wearing all black.
「Looking at various Spring/Summer collections, what really caught my interest were the cool items. So with that image firmly in mind, I picked this black pantsuit by D&G. I’ve always loved tailored pants, and the overall cutting of this suit is really beautiful. So saying, with a dark hair colour, I feel like wearing all black. I’ve been buying nothing but black clothes recently. (laugh) When I had blonde hair, I often wear brightly coloured clothes, even in my personal life.」

—–

emanuel ungaro

The cutting of this dress is very adult-like, so even with the floral print, it doesn’t come across as too girly
「I’ve always loved ungaro, and wear it lots in my personal life. That’s why any item from them is always a hit with me. This one piece dress from the SS collection is the cutest. The cutting of this dress is very lady-like, so even with the floral print, it doesn’t come across as too childish or girly. Recently, I’ve started to like one piece dresses. They’re just so easy to wear, that’s the image I have of them.」

—–

PAOLA FRANI

This PAOLA FRANI dress’ material and translucence are perfect
「This dress has a really pretty silhouette and cutting, the low-cut is also beautiful. This is the first time I’m wearing PAOLA for sweet, but I really love the brand, so I always wear it. I feel that this dress’ material and translucence are perfect. This shoot was really fun, they even caught the right facial expressions on film. This is my first time working with this photographer, Kitajima-san, but we managed to set our views on things like movement and such. It was interesting. (laugh)」

—–

Ayumi Hamasaki: Special Interview

Unafraid of change, Hamasaki Ayumi-san’s charm probably comes from the fact that she faces up to every challenge with attitude. As if to prove our point, she changed her hair colour from her trademark blonde to black. This new chic style is certainly fresh!

「I got used to it really quick. In contrast, I was always shocked seeing photos of myself when I first got blonde hair. (laugh) In my personal life, I do pay attention to my clothes, but I seldom put on make-up. Imagine me wearing colourful clothes, with super blonde hair, but no make-up. (laugh) With black hair, having no make-up seems fitting. It’s just easier to strike a balance. That’s why having black hair is easy.」

Together with her hair colour, she seems to be wearing black clothes recently, even in her personal life. Also, she seems to have foregone jeans, but opts for a lady-like style with skirts and one piece dresses. This, along with her new single 『Bold&Delicious』, composed by R&B artist GEO of SWEETBOX, accurately erflects her change in perspectives. A powerful gospel chorus, a R&B sound; this song is full of the artist Hamasaki Ayumi’s new situation.

「For me, it wasn’t as if I was planning to “make something new and surprise everyone”. Of course, I will wish to change, but that was not the reason why I chose to sing this song. It was really just the right circumstances that led to it. I’ve always liked SWEETBOX, (scan is cut off) and I remember mentioning it to the staff. It seems like they contacted SWEETBOX without my knowledge, and suddenly, I received about 12 demo songs from these staff whom I thought had forgotten the whole incident. (laugh) GEO is an artistic but very gentle person. He would respond to me really fast, saying things like “I hope for the melody to go like this”. So it was no accident that Hamasaki Ayumi ended up singing SWEETBOX’s songs, it was more of a collaboration, with both parties helping each other towards the same goal.」

Even now, there is a strong wish to speak of my feelings to fellow girls

『Bold&Delicious』, coupled with the beautiful mid-tempo 『Pride』. These 2 songs seem to contain a message, telling us to move forward without giving up, so that we can make something into reality.

「By working with all my might, I often overdo things and forget to have fun. But what 『Bold~』 and 『Pride』 illustrate is a feeling of fun amidst the hard work. In the past, I was pessimistic, and was often reluctant to do things. Well, there were times when I tried to be optimistic, even if everything was going negatively. However, recently, it seems as if the things I fear are gone. That’s why it’s ok now, even though I’m still a pessimist. Of course, it won’t do to be a pessimist through and through. As long as I know what kind of person I want to be, then no matter how people look at me, no matter what anyone says about me, I will be able to shrug it off.」

(scan is cut off) …with these negative songs, we have new album 『(miss)understood』.

「Even now, there is a strong wish to speak of my feelings to fellow girls. Girls nowadays are strong, and possess great power, right? I feel that girls will be able to create new things, no matter what they are. We have the wish to come together and get it on, as well as to look on from a distance and think “Yes, we girls are all working hard”.」

And so, this girl’s words, which are engraved in this album, tell us of gentle “strength”, reminiscent of the encouragement given from girl to girl in a private girls-talk.

Even a powerful woman becomes pessimistic sometimes, right?

「In that sense, this is a very strong album. But that strength comes from understanding pain and sorrow. It comes not from running from, but from wanting to bear the pain. Somehow, when a man gains power, and is able to have all he wants, he will become an extremely positive person. But with women, we still become pessimistic sometimes, right? That’s why I wish for this album to become your conviction. Let it tell of your story, or the story of other girls, who are working just as hard. I think that there are many girls out there who look at me and promise to work hard themselves. It works the same way with me, looking at all the girls working hard, I get the energy to work hard too. And that gave birth to the strength of 『(miss)understood』.」

NAILS

p18
Looking at D&G’s suit, Hamasaki-san wished for simple nails to match. With 3 slightly different shades of purple as base, the highlights are the black Swarovski crystals decorating the edges.

p19
To match with the one piece dress’ off-white, a mix of transculent white and a frosted colour were chosen as base to mimic the softness of tulle and lace. Coloured stones were used to match the design of the dress.

p20
Hamasaki-san’s suggestion was for a gorgeous image. On a gold base, large stones of various colours were placed randomly and boldly. The underlying theme for this set is 「refined gorgeous jewellry」.

Scans by A Fanblog

Thanks to yayou for informing me that there was a 2nd page! I totally missed out on that! ><

—–

After the disaster, the tour, which was scheduled to begin in April, was hurriedly pushed back to May, and the planned show was recreated from scratch by Ayu and her troupe. “We believe in the power of music, and this is the time to send power throughout Japan!” With this thought, the tour 「ayumi hamasaki ~POWER of MUSIC~ 2011 A」 was scheduled to begin from 7 May, at Hiroshima Green Arena. After the live, and even during the show itself, audience members who saw ayu’s show sent in lots of passionate messages via Twitter! This issue, we’ll be introducing those briefly. What did they feel about the POWER of MUSIC?!

‘POWER of MUSIC’ TOUR 2011 A
MESSAGES FROM AUDIENCE

I went for my first ayu live today (*^^*) I became a fan only after seeing her post-earthquake tweets, but this is my first time I’ve ever experienced a live that delivers all emotions straight, penetrates my whole body, and gives me strength. When she came to stand in front of me, I was so overwhelmed I couldn’t even wave.

ayu’s singing figure looks like a goddess, a warrior, being so strong. I felt the power of music. Thank you so much.

I felt the power of the songs inside me! Thank you lots!!!

There was an angel at Hiroshima Green Arena. With an angel’s voice. Thank you. Thank you.

ayu-chan, good job for the live! Everyone’s been calling it the best! The effects of your vocal training are evident! I’ll see you again at Yoyogi!

ayu-san. I really felt the true energy as you conveyed your emotions to us. You are really a tiny giant.

I thought that the POWER of MUSIC was something that can help to tide us over tough and sorrow-filled times, but that was not all. This show taught me something more, about the magnificence of music.

Where exactly in her small body does ayu keep all that power? That power that cheers people up? That power which is so gentle and powerful? A live performance is the place where one can experience those true feelings.

Watching the Day 2 show gave me confirmation of what I felt on Day 1, that ayu was a limitless possibility. I won’t lose out on watching any show in this tour!! No, I meant this year’s tour!! (laugh)

I’ve been waiting for ayu-chan to become honest, but this has far surpassed my expectations!!!

Just how much more will ayu-chan evolve?

Scans shared by miskiq @ AHS

All photo captions go from top->bottom, right->left.

*Note: Because the scans are of low quality, some parts of the article have not been translated word-for-word.

—–

Baby times

A little after 7pm on 2 October 1978, at Fukuoka University Hospital, Ayumi was born. Her weight at birth was 2780 grams. She was named the “baby with the black face”. And from that time on, we have Ayumi herself walking us through the stages of her life.

A Star Pupil who Graduated from Diapers and Started Talking Early

I was really small when I was born, so I had to be put in the– what do you call that? The thing which looks like a net. Ah, the incubator? (laugh) I had to be put in there. “The delivery itself was easy. She popped out almost as soon as the contractions began, because she was so small. (laugh)” <From Mother>

The name “Ayumi” was given by Granny. It’s supposed to be a wish for me to “walk on straight, one step at a time!”… But, well, I guess I wasn’t really the child she wished I was. (laugh)

I wasn’t really trying, but I graduated from diapers quite early on. I learned to speak early too, so I was really a star pupil, until kindergarten.

“She was a really low-maintenance child. Though there was once when I woke up and found her playing with her own poo… All the adults present then still laugh at Ayumi over that incident. (laugh) <From Mother>

Hey, Mummy didn’t have to say that! (pouts)

I was like a little boy at that time, no matter where I went, people asked “so how old are you, little boy?” And because I was never called a little daughter, I remember using the term “boku” when talking about myself.

PHOTO CAPTIONS

“I was really into chic then, though I totally don’t remember it now. (laugh) It was probably when I was 2 years old.” At Akiyoshidai, Yamaguchi Prefecture.

“This doesn’t seem like me, somehow. This baby has single eyelids. Oh well, I guess I hadn’t become human yet. (laugh)”

1 year old. “I think this was taken at Greenland Amusement Park, in my hometown. I probably went there with cousins Ya-chan and Kiku-chan. Probably.”

“This was taken at Greenland too. That’s Granny on the left and mummy on the right. I played so much, driving around in my little car.”2 years old, and just like a little boy.

—–

Kindergarten + Lower Elementary School Times

A lonely latchkey child during these days. Especially during elementary school days, she was a dark child… known to be shy, reserved and timid. In the midst of that, she had her first love. An unexpectedly heartwarming cuteness, we take a peek at the unknown true Ayumi…

A lonely childhood. Her rival: TV!?

The young Ayumi was really quite a cold child. Didn’t I build castles with my friends at the sandpit? Even in those situations, I only stood aside and watched, wondering “What is so fun about that?” And because I love high places, I used to climb trees and stay up there, daydreaming alone.

And because Mummy was working, she didn’t have much time to spend with me. So when Mummy watches TV and laughs at something being shown, I felt really jealous. So as not to lose out, I would sit on my chair beside the TV, then suddenly stand up and start acting. (laugh)

The Despised Daycare Centre. Excellent with Instruments like the Xylophone, and Acting Too!

I went to the a centre called the Violet Daycare Centre, but I hated it there. I wasn’t good at running, hated the food, and spoke with noone except my good friend Yuuko.

However, I just liked instruments for some reason. And when you like something, you practice with all your might, and then you just get good at it, right? And praise from my teacher made me even happier… I was even picked to play a solo on the xylophone at this Christmas party.

“It’s those two again!” Famous in the neighbourhood!?

I did lots of bad things with Yuuko. We plucked out all the flowers that Mummy and Granny grew in our yard, and made so much noise getting into a neighbour’s field to catch tadpoles that we were chased out by the old uncle. However, doing all these made me feel happy. Guess I really was a lonely child.

True Words from Mummy

She was truly a shy and reserved child. Instead of playing with friends, she chose to play the piano at home, or draw pictures, or write letters… She was really introverted. (laugh)

One incident I will always remember is how she had to do an art project over the summer holidays. Ayumi made a really beautiful piece by herself, but I guess it was too beautiful. Her teacher asked her where she bought it from, and she was unable to say that she had made it herself. When I went to pick her up, she was crying, and refused to tell me what went wrong. I only knew about it when I called her friend on the phone.

She also watched the anime “Anne of Green Gables”, and told me how she wished to be a bright child like Anne. At that time, she also decided that she wanted to become a model, and because a model had to interact with lots of people, she slowly became more of an extrovert.

PHOTO CAPTIONS

“This looks like a park, I guess… Maybe that’s why I had that expression on.” 4 years old

A happy girl at the Christmas party. “I performed at a large auditorium first, then gave a second performance at the daycare centre.”

“I sang the wrong lyrics right at the start of the performance, and was so ashamed that I cried…”

“This was at the Christmas party too. We had to say something, then pass the microphone and candle on to the next child, but I didn’t want to (laugh)” At Violet Daycare Centre.

—–

Memories of the Heartwarming First Love of a Dark, Reserved Girl.

A Super Reserved Personality… And a Sad Incident at the Recital

When I was in elementary school, I was a really reserved girl. I’ve never raised my hand in class before, and even when I was called on by the teacher, I would become all red and lower my head, unable to speak even when I knew the answer.

We had a music recital once, and through our class relay system, it was my turn to be the class chairperson. At that time, I was all “I can’t! I’ve never spoken in public before, I can only read from the script, and even then, my voice won’t come out…” I did use to be like that. (laugh)

The Day When She Stepped Off the Top of the Jungle Gym

I got so many bruises from that jumgle gym. It’s hard to pick a specific incident to talk about… There was one time when I was on top of the jungle gym, and needed to visit the toilet, but I guess I felt that it was not worth it to go, since I took so much energy just getting up there. And then, when I couldn’t take it anymore, I thought “ok, let’s go down”, took a step out, and… I fell straight to the ground with a DON! Even then, I first made my way to the toilet, and only till I was done did the pain come. I was sent to the hospital, and aside from the bruises, I also cracked something in my leg. (laugh)

First Love Towards “N-kun” Started at the Swings

One day in 3rd Grade, I was on the swings when suddenly, someone swaggered up to me and commanded me to “Get off!” He was so big and rough and looked so angry, my only thought was “Whoa, this guy is scary–” And that was N-kun.

I was really annoyed then, but I soon felt a liking for him, and the crush lasted for reeeeally long. N-kun’s family was the electrician’s, and whenever we ran out of batteries at home, I would deliberately ride my bike out to his place to buy some, even though he lived really far away ♡ (laugh) And then, one time, when I was out, N-kun came over to my house and left me a fish-shaped clock as a gift…
(Misa’s note: ayu stands for sweetfish in Japanese)

PHOTO CAPTIONS

1st Grade. Playing Richard Clayderman’s “Ballade Pour Adeline” at a piano recital. “I made a mistake at first, and got a little bewildered. (laugh)”

(Misa’s note: This photo caption was blurred and so was not translated)

“Taken at the same day as the 1st Grade photo. It was mealtime… We had really humble fare (laugh)” She loved putting marmalade on her food.

Taken during the first night of a study trip. “The 2nd one from the left, in the back row, is Ayumi, and there on the right-most is the famous Yuuko. (laugh) The 2nd one from the left in the front row is neighbour Mai-chan”

“I think this was from 4th grade, when we went on a natural history study trip” She has mostly remained the same since then!?

“Isn’t this one taken at the same park as on the previous page? I remember we were having an outdoor barbeque then” ~ Around 2nd Grade, when she was still introverted.

—–

Big Transformation in 7th Grade. Her First Date: a Double Date.

And then, we went to watch 「The Bodyguard」 together… along with Yuuko and her earnest-looking friend. A double date?! But it ended up with the 2 boys sticking together and us 2 girls also staying together. (laugh)

When I had to go to Tokyo, I didn’t tell him, but since it was a small town, news got around, and he came to ask if I was really going… I left him alone in Fukuoka in the end. Though I almost wanted to ditch Tokyo for him. (laugh)

Tears at Fukuoka Airport. Fukuoka Grows Smaller…

I came to Tokyo when I was in 8th grade, for 「Twins Teacher」. Till then, I never had a good impression of Tokyo, or the entertainment world. But when I was filming 「Twins」, I met with really innocent people, as well as some very ambitious ones.

Having not much passion for modelling then, I felt that it was just too much hype. I wanted to meet lots more people like that in Tokyo.

And so, I was introduced into Sun Music… but I cried when I came out. Everyone in the group was there for me, but because there were reporters from my hometown too, I really panicked.

Looking at the grey telephone, we thought “Hey, what is this?” “Isn’t it an international telephone?!” “Shall we use it to make a call back home?” We were always so cheerful like this, but when it was time to say “See you tomorrow!” Minazou suddenly started crying. That made everyone else, including mself, burst out in tears too.

I cried on the plane trip too. I thought to myself, “Look, Fukuoka is getting smaller” and I just felt so sad and pained. But when the plane neared Tokyo, hope somehow seemed to get bigger. I told myself to work hard from then on.

PHOTO CAPTIONS

“7th grade, with pet Piggy Ree in the living room at home” A white terrier dog, real name “Ree”. Check out any dictionary (page 24) to find out the meaning behind its name.

Promotional photo with her Model Agency in Fukuoka. “I was in 8th Grade then, and so “pure” (laugh)”

9th Grade. “We went skiing during our study trip. I can’t remember where… (laugh)” However, we can see the place name printed on their jerseys.

8th Grade Sports Festival. One girl with eight boys, she was truly a “Queen”… “We were a cheerleading team, that’s all. Groups 3-6 all had only one boy in them.”

8th Grade, taken when she went to Tokyo to audition for 「Twins Teacher」. “I was told that my skirt was too long, it was such a culture shock (laugh)”

Her look during her modelling era. A pink jacket with blue gloves gives a real impact! “This pose of mine keeps getting copied by ayu impersonators! (laugh)”

UPDATE: Thanks to full scans by Taki, the whole interview has been translated without cut off parts!! =)

—–

Scans by wincci@iloveayu.com

—–

–

Hamasaki Ayumi talks about “Love songs”

“Aside from understanding and feeling with me, if I can become the mirror that reflects my listeners, so that they can truly see themselves…”
With that idea, new album “Love songs” was completed!
ayu sings about many different kinds of LOVE, and with that, what questions does she have for everyone?

—–

“Love” gets you excited, it is fun, sweet, gentle, and makes you yearn for that someone.

—–

Quote: I can sing, because I can imagine myself. Because of that, I want to live. That was my 2010.

Interview

With a title like “Love songs”, we were fully expecting a rosy pink album. Guess that was stupid of us. (laugh)
There’s no reason to expect that. I’m ayu after all. (laugh) From the very first song”Love song”, we’re well away from ballads.

Firstly, we’d like to ask why you decided to make this album.
It started during Yoyogi 7days Live. At first, I thought that I’ll be burnt out after fighting for 7days, and I planned to take a breather after that. However, after I finished the live, I felt that “It’ll be wrong to stop now. I need to absorb what I’ve gained from these 7 days and move on.” To put it in another way, I guess I felt that I was “released”.

Released?
As someone who sings, what I should be and what I want to be is very simple. I just want to be a vocalist. That’s what I thought. To use whatever gimmicks to tell my message, and if I can’t, make it even simpler, so long as I can express through song whatever it is that I imagine. This is probably how I should be like.

I see. So the first song expresses the whole album.
I’ve always chosen my words with care, to hide meanings, to cover something, or for some certain reason. But this time, I want to make an album that sings about lots of love in a simple way. With that, the title “Love songs” soon came up.

It’s an album filled with different kinds of LOVE. So what does LOVE mean to ayu?
It’s probably the biggest theme in any person’s life, and the most important too. Without it, there is no meaning to life. With it, one becomes able to live. It is the biggest, the most beautiful, the most difficult, and the most talked about thing in this world. It is also the worst thing that can happen to you, emotional-wise. Sort of like trying to climb a super tall mountain. (laugh)

I see, I guess it’s important to hear and understand what ayu feels about Love songs herself, then.
“Love songs” is a general category for all the songs in the album, but “Love song” is the piece that describes what love is for me personally. It describes the person I am now. The piece “Love song” is not talking about is falling in love, nor is it a song about being in love, it’s just a song of LOVE. Love is the feeling that gets you excited. It’s fun, sweet, gentle, and makes you yearn for that someone. Isn’t that “love”? We don’t know what love looks like. We don’t know if it’s something warm or cold. It may feel really hot when you are in the moment, and the next thing you know, it’s become freezing cold. It’s not something real, and we can’t touch it. Furthermore, when you love someone, it is impossible to tell if it’s good or bad for that person. There are surely people out there who deny that love exists, so I wish to sing lots about love, honestly and straight from my heart. And that was how the album started.

The last song is a live version of “SEVEN DAYS WAR” recorded during 7days live. Is there a reason for that?
To LOVE is to LIVE. During the live, it felt that everything that was me was focused into that moment. Because I was a teary mess, I couldn’t sing very well. But that day, when I sang that song, I felt that it represented my all. How I wish to be a singer, how proud I am to actually become a singer, and lots of other indescribable things. And when I realized that, I had it made into an audio recording.

This is an album containing all sorts of love, but “November” is the one song which I don’t get…
I’m not saying. (laugh) I knew that was the only song which is hard to interpret. But do look forward to the day when you understand what it means~

Could it be related to your own personal life? I imagine that you’ve found your fated partner?? (laugh)
Who knows?

Is he born in November?
Ahaha. That won’t be the reason why I named the song that!

Aww! We wanted to talk to you about love, but I guess we’ll have to wait till next time.
The 50 questions we did the last time was really fun. I want to do it again. It’ll be easier to talk about love then.

Can we ask “Are you in love now”?
You’re persistent~ (laugh) That’s something to talk about next issue.

—–

Without love, there is no meaning to life. With love, one becomes able to live. That is love.

Scans by 兔兔阿草 @ js-link.com

—–

A Summer Date with AYU! in HAWAII

“Never before seen” Hamasaki Ayumi Happy.Private.Shot!

Aloha~! Our chase for AYU leads us to Hawaii! During filming, the sight of the girl frolicking in the sea brought outcries of “she’s soooo cute ♥”. We also managed to capture never-before-seen expressions. I want to become AYU’s boyfriend!

“Because we had an off-day in Hawaii, everyone went shopping ♪ at the supermarket to buy ingredients for cooking ♥”

An innocent Aloha!

Ayu-chin, in a white cotton dress and straw hat, along the beach. After filming, she ran straight into the sea like this. The sight of her frolicking and enjoying herself to the utmost was cute. ♥

—–

“At first I was just a bystander, laughing, till I was grabbed by the local coordinator Stan, and forcefully thrown in with a spla~sh, wetting all my clothes”

—–

“The last day of filming. All the staff followed each other to the sea ♪ with bright, bold moods”

—–

—–

“We were all so tired from touring. While shopping, we sank into massage chairs and refused to budge from them (lol) With our remaining stamina, we went for dinner at a grilled steakhouse!”

Dressed in this cherry get-up and holding a surfboard, she’s ready for the sea! A never-before-seen, honest and real AYU-chin. Looks like she’s enjoying her off-day ♪

—–

AYU-chin, wearing a pink striped balloon dress and eating shaved ice. Socializing happily with the locals, she looks like a true Hawaiian herself!

Interview

In Hawaii, I can recharge again, and spend this summer in style~

What is AYU like during the summer? For example, “I’m in the mood for love~ ♪”?
For me, summer isn’t about the “Let’s go!” spirit and all, but more about reminders of the past. Like being reminded about my teenage years, or the special smells carried by the summer winds, and even places. And because I always come to Hawaii for summer, I’ll have memories of this place from each year. Those places which I want to visit are always the same too, so I’ll go to those memorable spots annually. Thus, I’ll have memories like “Things were like this last year, but was it like this 5 years ago?” There’s no regret or anything, just well-meaning nostalgic memories of myself. At the same time, I also think about how I am now… That’s what I’m like.

Do you really always go to the same places?
Rather, it was essential for me to do the same things. Like how I always go to the same sea, and how I always do the same things for enjoyment there. That’s why there’s probably lots of unnecessary overlaps.

Are there many times when AYU comes to Hawaii not for work, but just for a private holiday?
It’s either Hawaii or LA. In Hawaii, I can relax and roam around casually. That’s like a summer feeling. In contrast, places like Tokyo and LA, with their sleepless cities and exciting locations, are more to my liking in the colder seasons. I think warmer seasons are more for relaxation, and should be spent in places which sleep and wake early.

So have you been leading this sort of healthy “sleep and wake early” lifestyle since you came to Hawaii?
Yep. There are no nightspots here, and it’s actually better to wake early… Whenever we come to Hawaii, it’s like a big family vacation, so we don’t see this place as very romantic. (laugh) “Please come back before nightfall~!” and “Please sleep early~” are the rules. We also do room-visiting in the middle of the night to play pranks on each other. (lol)

Eh? Sounds like an excursion trip for elementary school kids.
That’s it, that’s it! Just that kind of innocent fun. Because we can’t, and so don’t, do these things ordinarily, coming to Hawaii thus gives us a chance to let our natural and free selves out to have fun.

So these things which you do every year must be your favourite activities then.
Yep. If we can’t do them, we’ll wonder “Have I become an adult?” and feel really sad. But there are more young staff members now as compared to in the past. Out of those who are here at Hawaii, the youngest is probably about 18 or 19 years old. Even though I still see myself as a girl, I’ve somehow been relegated to the “big sister” team these days. (laugh)

Are you perplexed by this?
Not really. It’s natural for humans to grow older. Even though there’s a particularly large number of young staff members this year, I think that it’s a wonderful thing. But I’m still undecided about whether I intimidate them more, or the other way round. (laugh)

Are there any places which you must visit, or things you must do, whenever you come to Hawaii?
I must go shopping at Neiman in Ala Moana. I’ve known the shopkeeper since long ago, and we’re good friends. Whenever I come, I’ll be greeted with “Long time no see! Are you well? Welcome here again.” They sell lots of casual Hawaiian wear. Even though I’ve been to those big shopping centres in Ala Moana so many times, I still lose myself and go on sprees, it’s a little scary. (laugh) And everyone visits the supermarket everyday to get ingredients for cooking, too. There’s a beach which we always go to as well, but I’m not telling where it is~ ♪

By the way, what kind of clothes do you buy?
I buy lots of striped navy-like clothes. And also those matching 2 piece outfits. For swimwear, though I have new ones made every year, they’re mostly black or white basic bikinis. Last year, I had a gold/brown one. For this year, I have a neon yellow-green one and a purple one, and another one of pink denim. I’m collecting such clothes which shine strongly, those that belong to the stylish world of “glitter”. ♪

I see. The worldview from this new song is becoming AYU’s keyword for this summer. By the way, I heard you’ve been to that health sports shop called Power Stone Shop on 2 consecutive days. That one which sells massage machines and fluffy towels?
Yep, I did~. The massage machine was awesome~ (laugh) Because I’ve been touring non-stop, from Osaka to Hong Kong, then Fukuoka and Hawaii, without going home, these relaxation items really attract me. (laugh)

Maybe that’s another thing for the so-called “strong shining collection”.
Maybe. In Hawaii, I can recharge again, and spend this summer in style~ ♪

“Here in Hawaii, I sleep and wake early! It’s time to let out your innocent and playful heart!”

—–

Summer Song Interview

The release of the annual summer song! It’s a song with a shiny, memorable melody. We asked Ayu-chin about the contents of the short movie filmed in Hong Kong, as well as her new single.

To break into the movie scene was in many ways a great experience

This time, you did a short film in Hong Kong as a PV instead, right? I’ve seen the piece, and it’s really like a dramatic movie by itself. Really refreshing!
I wanted to sing a summer-like, uplifting song. So for everyone who has been waiting for this new work, I made “glitter”, and its heartbreaking opposing partner, “fated”. But as it wasn’t interesting enough, and I wanted to break away from tradition, I wondered if we could merge these 2 songs into 1 short film. Even though both songs are not summer love stories, I wondered if the film would be able to connect them together as such.

I see. And the one who played the role of AYU’s love interest this time is the popular Asian star Shawn. Apparently you announced something like “Somehow, I just want to act with him!”
Yep. I wanted someone who would strive to do his best with enthusiasm, and I was so amazed when he took part in the entire production of the film, all the way to the end. It made me really happy. Even though he’s already a unique person in real life, when filming starts, he seems like another person altogether! His professional acting really hooked me in as well. He was really the best partner.

The story was very novel too, as if Hamasaki Ayumi is acting as AYU.
Using the lyrics as a base, Director-san thought up a storyline for me. I was amazed at the way he did it. To be given such a role, won’t it be easier if it was the other way round? (laugh)

Bancho and the TA staff also took part in the filming too, right? That made it so much more realistic and emotional for the viewers. And with filming done on such a large scale, wasn’t it tough?
Well… It was about 10 days of filming throughout the night, and the only language of communication was English. All the actors who took part were really awesome, I’m so full of praises for them. There were so so many instances when I accidentally spoke English to my Japanese staff, and Japanese to the Hong Kong staff. I was just so exhausted that I didn’t even realize it. But Shawn and the Hong Kong staff still did their very best for me, so we managed to make a great masterpiece and break into the movie scene. It was in many ways a great experience. Even though I often wondered “Can we really do this?”, it was the first time I doubted, because I’m the type who would never have thought of doing such a thing normally, so I really wondered if things will turn out right. To have achieved it was a big accomplishment, and I feel like I’ve grown a bit too.

Let’s look forward to seeing the contents then. I felt a sense of the actor’s spirit from the wordless performances by you two leads. The loneliness that comes with fame was gorgeously done. I can see it now.
To be frank, it’s a little scary. You sort of wonder “Can this be real?” (laugh) For example, that falling-out scene with the staff members after the press conference. (lol) I’ve definitely been there before.

While “glitter” took the first half, “fated” was matched to the second half of the story. All the girls out there probably wish to have a love as fated as that.
I have definitely met people whom I feel that I’m fated to meet. With such a feeling of anticipation this summer, viewing and listening to this, it makes one wish to have such a spectacular meeting with someone. Summer is just that kind of season, isn’t it, filled with so much excitement? I definitely can’t wait.

“Summer’s filled with so much excitement. I definitely can’t wait~ ♪”

Scans by iloveayu.com

—–

COVER STORY: Hamasaki Ayumi Debut Appearance!

Ayumi Hamasaki in dreamin’ world

At last, the Japanese pop princess who shook the world, Hamasaki Ayumi-san the unique fashion leader makes an appearance in Otona Look!s! We present fully, her unstoppable appeal~

—–

Fantasy of the winter begins in a deep forest.

Gently landing in the deep forest
An innocence just like powder snow

A fluffy soft knitted poncho, paired with a long lace dress. White tones that make up this girly coordination gives off a feeling of innocence.

—–

Reflecting womanliness and strength
A white X black masculine coordination

A black base sets the metrosexual atmosphere, while the white blouse brings out the womanliness. Fur and the classic blouse are this year’s hot items.

—–

Ayumi Hamasaki
Born 2 October 1978. Pop princess who receives great support not just in Japan, but throughout Asia as well. Counting down to the 50th single, 2 consecutive releases planned in September. Presently staging Yoyogi 7Days live in commemoration of 50th single.

Quote: To me, fashion is an important tool I use to express myself

“Though this is my first appearance here, I managed to receive a great perspective, and take wonderful photos, so I’m really glad.”

Deep in the silent forest stands a rundown water mill, in which the pop princess talks about her debut appearance to Otona Look!s. As the only female solo artist who sold over 20 million copies of her singles, Hamasaki Ayumi-san is the cover girl for this issue, showing us her signature nail art.

Her secrets and thoughts about beauty… Though that is a subject we often wish to ask her about, the focus this time is on her style this winter! We asked Ayu about any fall/winter fashion trends that have caught her interest.

“I’ve always associated winter with black! However, this year I have been going with other colours, such as brown, beige or camel. Maybe it’s because cute and girly dresses, rather than elegant ones, fit my current mood better. If I had to describe my fashion using words, I guess I’d pick the word “bohemian”. The coordination I liked most in this shoot was the one I wore on the cover. My personal clothes consist of lots of lace and knits too, so it felt natural when I wore that. Because I haven’t been wearing black at all recently, it felt refreshing to wear them again. It somehow fits surprisingly well. (laugh) And then, though it’s not a current obsession, I seem to be wearing dangly accessories alot too. And among those, I seem to end up picking the leather ones most. It can be coordinated with either lace shirts or knit items, giving a different feeling for each. That was the case with this photoshoot.

To me, fashion is an important tool I use to express the person I am at different times, and it has saved me. When I want to feel strong, I wear a dress. When I am with a boyfriend, I’ll pick something which will make me look cute. I think fashion is a special weapon that can be utilized by girls, because of its rich variety. Therefore, I wish that everyone will also enjoy it.”

That was what ayu told us.

When this issue is released, ayu will be right in the middle of hosting 7-days live at Yoyogi, in celebration of the release of her 50th single. Songs to be performed include [crossroad], a collaboration work with Mr Komuro Tetsuya that was included in the 49th single, as well as elaborate songs from [L], the 50th single released just a week after. Whether in white or black, she continues running on, never losing confidence in herself. To this ayu, we posed a last question: What kind of girl does she consider to be beautiful?…

“Probably girls who believe in themselves, and are not affected by what others perceive of her.”

And that seems to describe this self-produced girl herself perfectly.

—–

—–

Scans by wincci@iloveayu.com

Hamasaki Ayumi
Latest LA Special Photo Session
Another “INSPIRE” story

—–

THE PASSION OF SUMMER

Hamasaki Ayumi’s Special Photo Story
On a passionate new journey

The path she took to get here, was filled with radiant light.
But the brighter the light, the darker the shadow cast.
That’s why she’s singing,
not to voice her sorrows, but to convey her feelings,
with words and rhythms.
And now, she’s setting out on a passionate new journey—

—–

There was a time, when I thought that I would never achieve happiness

World of Dreams

The final destination, a world of dreams.
To rouse up sleeping passions,
to find the true chracter of overflowing passion,
to get closer to her real feelings.

—–

Sleeping Beauty

Why can’t I convey my passions?
There is a wall I cannot scale.
I close my eyes, embrace conflict and irony.
Until that sad aura
became my identity.

—–

Waiting for Love

I can’t hurt, nor can I be hurt.
I can’t endure the pain,
but I can’t run from it.
Even though I never had any conviction,
I still got tired, waiting for eternal love.

—–

Young and Rich

I’ve slowly come to realize,
my own wealth and youth.
I felt a small need to move forward.
However, before I set off,
everything was so unclear.Still, I stepped out.

—–

Dreaming

And then, in order to see her dream again,
the girl fell into a deep deep sleep.
To dig deep into her heart,
and confirm her passions, one by one.

—–

Quote: The possibility of a new door opening comes with the ability to honestly express her passion

Special Long Interview

Dressed as a Latin Muse for this photo story shot in LA, this girl managed to show us a new, charming side of her.
A long interview, about the new confidence she gained from her long tour, the thoughts behind her new song, and even talk of love. The straightforward manner with which she conveyed her thoughts shows off her strong “passion” in a sexy way.

The tour, which started at the end of last year, went on all the way to April this year, and there were even added performances. That must have been tough.
Even though the time up till the start of the performance was tough, once the concert itself got going, I actually didn’t feel that it was that bad.

But there were so many lives. Even if you had the physical energy, were there times when your voice just couldn’t take it?
I did 3 consecutive shows at Osaka, and though my physical self was alright, it was a huge strain on my throat. But, aside from feeling some pain, it was OK.

You were really energetic, weren’t you?
On stage, of course. Because I’m the youngest among all my staff members, I’m sure it must have been tougher for them. (laugh)

For Hamasaki Ayumi’s case, I think you take a very special role when it comes to tours. Aside from being a solo artist, you also take charge of all the production work. For this tour, what role did you play? Did you oversee all of the production work, or did you just concentrate on being a singer?
I do what I always do. First, I think about how to link up all the songs. I decide on details like where to place guitar solos to fill up and support areas where the sound is weak. Next, I hold discussions with the dancers to determine which scenes they should appear in. Lastly, we all have rehearsals, and I think about lighting sequences and bigscreen animations. After all this, then I decide on costumes. That’s the general flow.

So you’re actually more of a producer than a performer.
I do like being a producer.

Have you ever had any disputes over this with your staff?
They’re not disputes, but rather an exchange of opinions, like “Won’t it be better if we do it this way?” For example, when choosing costumes, we’ll hold discussions like “Will this material reflect too much when the spotlight shines on it?”

Once you’ve started touring, there are always changes made to the way you perform, right?
Yep, that does change alot. Apart from the stage, everywhere else like backstage and the audience is crammed with people, and it’s really tough trying to get them to think as one. You also need to deal with morale, plus, different problems will arise everyday, and we have to change costumes, lighting or the staging to adapt.

The lives this time are divided into 2 main sections. The first half doesn’t have any MCs, and it moves forward steadily as a pure “show”. The second half has more casual costumes, and involves the audience more, closing the distance between you and them.
My lives have always been like this.

And at the very end, you put down the mic and shout “Thank you so much!” with your raw voice.
I could always hear everyone’s voices really well from the stage, so I wondered, “If I didn’t have a mic, will people still be able to hear my voice?”

They could, even though the arena was so big.
Hahaha.

I think the difference between the first and second halves of the concert is very interesting. Even though I always thought the audience would be overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the show, they could actually experience a closeness with you, just as if you were performing in a small livehouse.
Originally, I wanted to experience the feeling of the world coming together as one, something which never happens in real life. That’s why I thought that if I asked “Is everyone happy!?” during the MC sessions, I will see everyone answering me as one. For example, if you go to a theatre, and the protagonist in the movie asks you “Everyone~, are you enjoying yourselves~!?”, it sort of spoils the whole thing, right? (laugh) It’s the same thing, I wanted to see the world as one, just like in my dreams. And after the encore, I felt that I have become closer to the audience.

I see. I think everyone did enjoy themselves during the performance. When I attended the show in Hokkaido, I saw whole families present, with kids and sometimes even grandmas. Lots of people have been touched by your lives. When you’re onstage and the other members are illuminated by the spotlight, have you tried to look at them objectively?
I have, and I think they look really calm.

I understand how, before the performance, you can oversee things calmly as a producer, but during the actual show itself, can you still observe things with an objective eye?
Yes, and I see lots of things, like “Today, XXX did something wrong here”, or “Enrique-san, were you fooling around?” (laugh)

You’re scary. (laugh) Nobody can escape from you.
Hahaha!

Whether I’m feeling happiness or sorrow, I am able to honestly express my feelings and passion

When I look at the tour this time, I felt that, aside from some calm moments, you seemed to have forgotten the distance that existed between you and the audience, and to let yourself be carried away by the music created by the band and dancers. There were moments when you looked like you were absolutely enjoying yourself.
Probably. I felt like I’m split into 2 selves: one that is completely immersed in the live performance, and another in spirit form, watching over the whole thing and seeking confirmation of myself.

—–

Quote: I became able to laugh at the mistakes made during a performance, because I think that being able to enjoy myself during that moment is the most important of all.

I dare say that the self who was totally immersed was the one enjoying herself the most. The feel-good thrill of being able to sing out loud, and the energy and passion coming from everyone. I think it’s really awesome to still be able to see things with a objective eye in such a situation.
Of course, there are moments when I’m totally immersed, but that is only for my own satisfaction. Sort of like “I’m the best right now, aren’t I?” (laugh) But I know that when I’m feeling good like this, I won’t be able to see anything. There are surely things which I wasn’t able to notice during rehearsals. The band, dancers and staff are aware of the audience, so I want to be able to judge the audience’s reactions too.

That’s naturally a professional stance that an entertainer should take. Even though you have been doing it all this while, I think that you have managed to achieve a high-calibre performance again this time. However, this time, aside from having such outstanding performance, you also enjoyed yourself. Like during the more sexy parts, I could feel the passion of life coming from you. It did make me wonder if you have somehow changed. During the tour finale’s MC session, you said “I’ve come to think well of myself, even when I’m at my very worst”, and that made a big impression on me.
Hmm~… How shall I put it? In the past, I hated it when I could not pull off something as perfectly as I could during rehearsals. There are just so many things that need to be done perfectly during the actual performance. For my case, because I do lots of quick costume changes, there were times when I came on stage a little later. When it got really bad, sometimes I had to make my appearance while singing the first line already. (laugh) I totally couldn’t forgive myself for those. Even when the misses did not concern me directly, like lighting, sound or dance mistakes, I felt the same way. After looking at this tour objectively, I realized that there were many mistakes too. However, I laughed at them. I didn’t get angry and demand “Why did this happen!?”, but the mistakes became something funny to be laughed over with everyone.

Does that mean that you’ve become more flexible? Linking up this flexibility with the experience from all the previous tours, where you did really outstanding things.
Yes. “A MUSEUM” was the first time I held a series of lives all at the same location, and the announcement of it was so sudden, so it was really hard both on my physical and mental self. I was a little worried about whether I could pull it off, but when at last, everything turned out well, I felt that my relations with various people became stronger too.

Did you possess that flexibility that allowed you to laugh at mistakes then?
I did. I pointed at it and laughed. In contrast, everyone else were the ones who went “What just happened!?” instead. (laugh) I was able to see that mistakes are just a part of lives. So rather than becoming flexible, I’d say I gained confidence instead. When someone makes a mistake, you need to be confident that the person will be able to make a recovery.

What was it that allowed you to be able to laugh?
Since long ago, I’ve had the notion that “I need to work hard”. Even though that still stands today, I feel that what is more important is that I am able to enjoy myself and be caught up in the moment.

Was there any occasion in general that caused you to think this way? Like, did anyone give you advice, or did anything happen?
I think it’s probably because I found that I could place my trust in the staff, band and dancers.

Rather than being something which you realized suddenly, this feeling accumulated over time?
Yes.

So it’s been like this for this tour, as well as the new song, but I somehow get the feeling that the way of viewing is different. In other words, while the things which Hamasaki-san wishes for, as well as the goals which you aim for, will never change, the way which you look at them has. Your past music was all about the hardships and ironies of living, and your songs had this “negative aura” about them. From then on, you’ve moved on to talk about “love”, and have become the guiding light which leads everyone to happiness. This time, you have moved on to another new stage again. While holding on to hardship and irony, as well as love and happiness, you seem to have become able to convey the passions in your heart…
I think it’s because I’ve become more honest.

After coming all this way, were there times when circumstances needed you to “put on a sorrowful expression”, or maybe “to put on a joyful expression”?
Yes, there were. Sometimes I needed to be happy, sometimes I needed to be hurt, it always depends on the situation. In contrast, there were times when I could not be happy even when I needed to be, or to keep sending out messages about Love and Peace when I can’t.

Sorrow or joy, no matter what the real person is feeling, as a representative you have to conform to everyone else and the times, and to feel as they do. Something like this?
Yep, but humans are not simple creatures with only one face. No matter how important or trivial something is, we will always be troubled by it. However, whether that matter is worthy of being conveyed to others is up to ourselves.

I feel that the new song talks about this issue straight to our faces. Holding on to both joy and sorrow, INSPIRE’s lyrics tell us clearly to open our hearts to love and dreams. The theme this time is Latin-inspired. When Latinas face sorrow, these girls don’t lose spirit, but sing and dance to concentrate their passion. That’s why we feel that they’re so beautiful and shining, and wish to become more like them.
Singing about fortunate things, writing about good events, it’s totally not about that at all. It’s just about living honestly. I don’t feel pressure from my surroundings to do things which I don’t want to, not any more.

—–

The mobile phone is the best tool for lyrics writing

When did you write the lyrics for the new song?
About May, right after the end of the tour.

So, are your feelings from the tour reflected in the lyrics?
Yep. However, I didn’t purposely wish to make use of the experiences I got through this tour. I was just looking back at the long tour, and wondering how it has impacted me.

So how did the lyrics come about? Some people have come up with great ideas while in the bathroom.
When I think “Let’s write!”, nothing will come, so I don’t think about it. Nothing inspirational came about in unexpected moments too.

So is there a switch that can turn on the “Let’s write!” mode?
When I have no more time. (laugh) Even if I finish something early, my feelings can change again, right? Things written in haste at the last minute tend to be more straightfoward and honest, so I drag it out as much as possible, and when there’s no more time, I panic and write. I write them on the mobile phone, while I’m typing messages to my friends.

Mobile phone?
Yep. I write lyrics on my mobile.

Not on the computer?
You can’t type on the computer with just one hand. (laugh) It’ll be really slow. So there’s lots of saved mail on my mobile phone, with all the lyrics I’ve written. So it’ll be a real mess if I lose it. (laugh)

Why is the mobile better?
Probably because I can write wherever I want. For the computer, you have to think “Yosh!”, then turn it on just for that purpose. And while that’s happening, the image in your mind will shift. Because the mobile has a shorter waiting time, what I write will retain more of its original image, so that’s why it suits me.

So when you’re writing lyrics, you won’t let anyone else see them?
Isn’t it the same thing when you’re typing messages? And when I finish a track, I just key in my manager’s number and send it off, it’s really convenient.

Were there times when you couldn’t express your feelings because you’re typing on a mobile?
No, actually, it’s good because it keeps me calm. For example, when you write by hand, you’ll think about writing nicely and keeping your lines straight, and when you do that, when you look at it during recordings, you’ll just feel that there’s something wrong.

Wrong refers not to pleasing yourself, but how it will appear objectively?
Yes yes. With handwritten lyrics, one becomes subjective.—It’s the same with your lives. It’s not about appearing any way you like, but to look like a professional in the critics’ eyes. Though there are people who express themselves in their own style, as what they are themselves, I think that it’s good too.

It’s human nature to always have a part of yourself that you keep calm. Even while you go “Wow–!” with your friends, there’s always a part of you that’s standing apart and watching from the distance. That’s why we’re not easily overwhelmed. That objective, calm part of you will always go “So it’s happened” no matter what occurs. Without it, I think we’ll be very anxious people.

Though we’ve already talked about this, I think that you’ve managed to surpass this objective side with this tour, to become closer to your “real” self, and so could enjoy yourself. Did you really feel happy?
As to that, I’m surely more confident than I ever was before.

Brimming with life, you really did appear very sexy… To add to that, a music programme show last night crowned you champion as the “Artist one wishes to be in love with”. Though I’m not sure if that “love” includes the physical relationship as well. (laugh)
Wow, I see. (laugh)

Lover’s Condition: The ability to be yourself

What are your conditions when it comes to relationships? For example, must it make you feel “healed” or “excited”, as well as preferences such as age.
The ability to be himself… I wonder if that’s a preference.

Are you looking for a passionate relationship…
Not really. When I was young… No, I shouldn’t say that. (laugh) When I was youngER (laugh), I didn’t want to show my other half anything other than my good points. That applies to everyone actually, everyone wants to be with others only when they’re at their best. Like, when our hair looks good, or when we have some make-up on, or when we look good in so many outfits that we can’t choose which to wear. Everyone wishes to look their best, even when they’re saying goodbye. Also, in the past, I didn’t dare to meet with the guys I liked when I didn’t have a reason to do so. For example, we met up only when there was a goal to accomplish, such as watching a movie, or having a meal together. However, as I became an adult, I feel that the most important thing is to still be together even though there’s no ultimate goal. Even when we’re doing our own things, to still share the same space, isn’t that the most important thing?

Like, even when together, you’re reading your own book, or watching your own TV programme?
Yes yes. To see and be with the “permanent real me”, instead of the “temporary special me”.

—–

Quote: I feel that the most important thing is to still be together with the one you love, even if there’s no ultimate goal.

So you don’t choose partners based on whether they make you feel anything special, like feeling healed or excited?
I want someone who doesn’t make demands from others, the type who wants to try to solve things himself, whatever happens. Someone who won’t try to just sit down and talk about it, or to beg others to help him. He’ll try to do things himself, as much as he can from beginning to end. Even if he requests for help from others, he will still wish to see the results for himself.

So, he’s the type who’s really easy to get along with?
Nope, rather, he’s the type who probably says things like “You can just depend on me”. However, because he’s kind-hearted like that, he won’t get along with those who can’t trust him enough to rely on him.

In terms of work, I think that many other artists demand that their partner possess a high-level job. In other words, “a man must be manly!” (laugh)
Hahaha. Nope, I don’t need that, nor find it particularly attractive. However, I just dislike tiresome people. People who are tired of their work are just tiresome all the way. I also dislike men who are pretentious and love to show off, or those who spend all their time preening before a mirror. (laugh) As long as they are not these types, I’m fine with anything else.

While it is true that anyone can easily fulfill your requirements, I feel that it’s actually not really easy.
People cannot be understood immediately, and their real selves are probably totally different. When people finally see what a person is really like, they get tired of that person really easily.

That’s true. That’s why I said it’s not easy. You can’t even try to pretend.
Hahaha! I’m really good at seeing through lies. (laugh) I’m also not a boastful type. Some people like to use a really loud voice when talking, as if to boast. When the other person talks so loud that his voice leaks out from the phone, isn’t it annoying to the people around you? I don’t want to be that sort of person. This doesn’t apply between lovers, but among friends as well.

It’s not just about feelings?
Nope, it IS just about feelings. (laugh)

(laugh) So it’s best to be more sensitive.
You don’t say things like “Oi, be more considerate, will you!” to someone whom you love, right? If it gets to that stage, I’ll just distance myself from that person.

If you can’t stand the person, it’s best to withdraw yourself.
Yeah. Until then, I just store up all the tension and stress within myself.

It is hard to intervene directly when it comes to someone else’s faults.
Of course. It is hard to say it clearly.

However, when you were youngER (laugh), did you just strike back immediately whenever you’re provoked?
When I was youngER (laugh), I did.

Hahaha. Oh yeah, I’ve heard that you’ve been wanting to try surfing. Have you challenged it yet?
Nope, I haven’t had the chance to go, because everyone around me keeps saying things like “It’s dangerous, don’t do it”.

But it really is dangerous. You’ll have to swallow lots of seawater, the board’s fin can cause injuries, you may even collide with other surfers…
But even if I try to be more careful, there’s always the chance that someone else’s board will come flying my way.

And depending on the location, the bottom of the sea might be rocky instead of sandy, it’s quite scary.
(whine) But I really wanna try. It’ll be OK if I do it in Hawaii. Because it’ll be my first time, please write a nice entry for my “Special Surfing Documentary”. (laugh)

—–

To be great at singing didn’t cross my mind…I just wanted to be more honest

Sea of Dreams

After opening her eyes,
she sees a nostalgic sight, the sea, which she made a promise to.
Is this the past, or the future?
The vines of passion wraps around the girl,
and become her memory’s guide
for a new journey.

—–

Fall in Love

The grail, created by their own hands
with the sworn words “we’ll stay together always”.
She washed it with the wind and the waves,
and left it at that seashore, filled with memories.
And there it lay, the evidence of never-ending love.

—–

Smiling…

The happiness and sorrow
which used to rule her heart
are now both precious to her,
things to embrace with a smile.
That’s why, she becomes able
to convey the passion in her heart.
That’s why, she can start out
on a new journey.

—–

and Never Ending

So, the journey of passion continues—