In light of Masahiko Kondo‘s most recent cheating scandal, he has decided to take an indefinite hiatus from performing.

When Johnny & Associates confirmed that Matchy was having an affair, he admitted his guilt. After discussing the issues at hand with his family, he decided to take responsibility for his actions, which included suspending his performing activities indefinitely.

This week’s guests were JUJU, Kato Miliyah, and Miyamoto Hiroji.

JUJU – One more time, One more chance

Kato Miliyah – Honnou

Miyamoto Hiroji – Ihoujin

We’re back with this week’s edition of Oricon Flashback! This is where we look back on what topped the charts this week 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years ago. Think of it as a way to reminisce and learn about the past of Japanese music.

As the readers of this site know, streaming is a thing in Japan. The rest of the world is still fascinated with the idea of Japan being all about CDs, when the readers of this site also know that the reason CD sales are so high in Japan still is because of bonuses attached to the CDs. Reuters’ Ritsuko Ando recently looked at how this is changing though.

In the article, the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on CD sales is documented. Music fans are currently staying home and music acts are canceling in-store events, leading to a switch to streaming.

Tower Records has suffered due to the pandemic, with spokesman Tatsuro Yagawa saying, “It will take a long time for things to return to normal.” He is optimistic though, saying, “Music fans here like buying CDs to show support for their favorite artists. I don’t think people will stop buying CDs.”

As reported earlier, Avex has also suffered due to the pandemic. The company held a-nation online a few months ago, attracting 1.6 million views, split between free and paying viewers. However Avex CEO Katsumi Kuroiwa described the financial results of the company’s foray into large-scale online events as mixed.

In related news, it was also reported that Avex is looking to sell its Tokyo headquarters as a COVID-19 cost-saving measure. They would then rent back its offices.

This week’s guests were Vickeblanka, Okazaki Taiiku, Rinne, and Orange Spiny Crab.

Vickeblanka VS Okazaki Taiiku – Bakashi HOUR NIGHT

Rinne – snow jam

Orange Spiny Crab – Rinse

On December 31, the 71st NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen air. The show will air from 7:30 PM to 11:45 PM JST. As previously reported, the show will be hosted by Uchimura Teruyoshi and Kuwako Maho, with Nikaido Fumi leading the Red Team and Oizumi Yo leading the White Team.

NHK has now revealed who will be performing on the show. Check out the list below!

This week’s episode featured back number. The band has gained popularity among different generations due to the their sentimental lyrics and catchy melodies. Kamishiraishi Mone, who is a back number fan, makes an appearance discussing the band’s lyrics.

back number – Takane no Hanako-san / HAPPY BIRTHDAY / Old Fashion / Emerald / Suiheisen

THE RAMPAGE from EXILE TRIBE is gearing up for the release of their 13th single MY PRAYER, initially released as a digital single in October the physical version will be released nationwide in Japan on December 9th, 2020.

MY PRAYER is the official theme song for the 14th season of the ABEMA TV show Shuumatsu Homestay. The single will feature two b-sides titled ESCAPE and BAD LUV, instrumentals for the songs and the a-side MY PRAYER will also be included on the single. Pre-order bonuses include a B-2 sized poster. Check out the MV below!