Australia
USA
Latest News
Friday, 10th July 2015
In Japan Entertainment News,
Age is just a number for Japan's newest pop group
The pop group behind the Come on and Dance, Kohama Island song that is taking Japan by storm are currently carrying out a tour of the country.
KBG84 are no ordinary band, however, with the two oldest members of the 33-strong ensemble being aged 97 and 92.
The troupe originates from island of Kohama in Okinawa prefecture, which is remote and incredibly beautiful with its coral fringed shoreline.
They chose their name as a play on AKB48, a group that appeals to teens in Japan and has seen widespread success.
Tomi Menaka, one of the singers, told the Agence France-Press (AFP) news agency: "When I first heard someone call us 'idols' I thought an idol meant someone who had lived a long life and was at the gates of heaven.
"But in Tokyo they told me it was an entertainer – which was a relief because I thought it meant I was on my way to heaven. I hadn't even been to Tokyo or Osaka. I wanted to go there before I went to heaven. Going to Tokyo for the first time, I thought I was so lucky to be born. I got to meet my grandchildren. I'll never forget it. I was moved to tears."
Haru Yamishima, the oldest member of the group, said she feels young at heart and keeps herself active by cleaning her home and steaming rice. She looks after her skin and avoids sitting in the sun.
The band was put together by Kyushu-born musician Kikuo Tsuchida and their hit single allows them to sing about the beauty of the island they have all lived on for their entire lives.
Nature is a big part of it and the lyrics reference whales spouting and dolphins doing somersaults in the sea.
KBG84 are currently embarking on a sell out tour and have achieved a record deal.
Related news stories:
Coming-of-Age Day witnesses decline in young people (9th January 2012)
Japan prepares to lower voting age from 20 to 18 (1st June 2015)
Average age of Japan's isolated increases (11th April 2008)
Cigarette machines to require proof-of-age (29th February 2008)
Inside Japan UK office
Inside Japan US office
Inside Japan Australia office
Inside Japan - Japan office
