Hello, Arama! Japan readers and welcome to this week’s installment of #1 Song Review! Last week saw Aimer defeat Kanjani8, Hoshino Gen, and DA PUMP. DA PUMP is back this week, facing off against a newcomer and a blast from the past. Find out what Ronald thought of the songs that topped the singles charts this week and share your thoughts on them too!

Oricon #1: / Billboard Hot 100 #1: NEWS – “Ikiro” (not available for download or streaming)

It’s ok… Nothing I haven’t heard before a million times. 5/10

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Oricon Digital Singles #1 / Billboard Download Songs #1: MISIA – Ai no Katachi feat.HIDE (GReeeeN) (Oricon #21 / Billboard Hot 100 #8 / Billboard Streaming Songs #2)

Same review as before: From the begining, I knew that this was going to be a heartwarming song that I would like. It gives me a wintry feel, even thought it is summer. MISIA’s vocals are superb, as usual. I do feel the influence of GReeeeN in the song. It’s nice to have a song of theirs, but without their usual horrible shouting. 7/10

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Billboard Streaming Songs #1: DA PUMP – U.S.A. (Oricon #16 / Billboard Hot 100 #4 / Oricon Digital Singles #5 / Billboard Download Songs #5)

Same review as before: The eurobeat, the eurobeat, the eurobeat… I’m a bit of a sucker for it. It’s just so fun and nostalgic. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. It is what it is. 6.5/10

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Rank:

1. Oricon Digital Singles #1 / Billboard Download Songs #1: MISIA – Ai no Katachi feat.HIDE (GReeeeN)

2. Billboard Streaming Songs #1: DA PUMP – U.S.A.

3. Oricon #1: / Billboard Hot 100 #1: NEWS – “Ikiro”

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