It appears as if the rumors that surfaced late last year were in fact partially true. Utada Hikaru is now confirmed to have a new song which will serve as a drama theme in April. The new song will serve as the theme for the new NHK asadora “Toto Nee-chan.” One of the rumors was that she would have a new song with a high profile drama tie-in, and this is it.

On January 20, LILI LIMIT will release their second mini album, “#apieceofcake.”  Today, the band released the music video for the mini album’s third track, “N_tower.” It’s a stylish affair which sees LILI LIMIT’s vocalist Makino Junpei take on a new role. The clip was directed and edited by him. Junpei’s goal for the video was to give a unique view of Tokyo and Izu.

Check out the video after the jump, along with the “#apieceofcake” cover and the previously released “Festa” PV.

KANA-BOON have 2 releases on the horizon. The first is a new single, “Run And Run”, out January 20. The music video for it was recently released and it shows young people dealing with frustration and finding hope. It ties into the song’s theme of continually running towards the future. It also represents how KANA-BOON has been continuously running since their debut in 2013.

The second release is the band’s new album, “Origin”, out February 17. The album will come in a 2CD Limited Edition A, a CD+DVD Limited Edition B, and CD only Regular Edition. The second CD that comes with Limited Edition A will contain new versions of some of the songs from their indie era. The DVD that comes with Limited Edition B will include various videos including some parody music videos and their makings.

KANA-BOON will be holding their first overseas concerts as part of their tour in support of “Origin.” They will be performing in Hong Kong and Taipei, Taiwan in July.

Check out the more information on both releases after the jump!

Hello, Arama! Japan readers and welcome to this week’s installment of #1 Song Review! Last week saw Morning Musume ’15 top Nishino Kana and Hoshino Gen. Gen is back again this week, along with 2 newcomers. Find out what various staff members thought of the songs that topped the physical and digital charts this week and share your thoughts on them too!

The saga of Kawatani Enon and Becky continues. On Friday, Enon deep bowed twice on Music Station in a show of remorse. On Sunday, Gesu no Kiwami Otome. held a free live at a Tokyo park in support of their new album, “Ryoseibai.” Before the show, Enon tearfully apologized to fans once again. He also thanked them for their support and promised to continue making good music for them. The fans shouted “Good luck!” in a show of support.

On February 3, Happiness will release their new single, “Sexy Young Beautiful.” The release is a unique one meant to display the group’s singing, rapping, and dancing ability. The covers for the single were designed by NIGO, of A Bathing Ape fame.

Today, Happiness released the music video for “Sexy Young Beautiful.” It shows the girls partying at a sleepover. The video was choreographed by Happiness’ leader, MIYUU. Check it out after the jump, along with more information on the single!

On January 18, the 39th Japan Academy Prize Association for excellence in film announced its winners and nominees for the Grand Prizes. All nominees for the top prize receive “Awards of Excellence”. The Grand Prize will be presented in a ceremony on March 4 at the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa in Tokyo.

Umimachi Diary garnered 12 nominations, the most of any work.  Nishida Toshiyuki and Miyazawa Rie, winner of last year’s Best Actress will serve as moderators for the event. Movies are eligible if they opened in Japan between December 14, 2014, and December 15, 2015.

Last year, Eien no Zero took home 8 prizes. Check out this year’s list below.

A few minutes ago, SMAP made a special live announcement on “SMAP x SMAP” to address their supposed disbandment. The group will not be disbanding and will remain under Johnny & Associates.

The show opened with a performance montage of “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana”, with messages from fans in regards to the possible demise of the group being read by a narrator. The five members of SMAP then appeared, standing in black suits in front of a curtain.