EXILE tops Oricon’s weekly album chart with their best-of album

EXILE’s best-of album, “EXILE BEST HITS -LOVE SIDE／SOUL SIDE-” (released December 5th), has sold 382,000 copies in its first week and has topped Oricon’s album chart for the week of December 17th.

This is EXILE’s 5th consecutive album and 15th total to top the Oricon chart. With this, the group is now tied in 2nd place with Mr.Children for the male artists with the most number of albums to top the chart (1st place is B’z with 25 albums).

At the same time, EXILE ATSUSHI’s 1st solo single “MELROSE ~Aisanai Yakusoku~” (also released December 5th) has placed 2nd in Oricon’s single chart for the same week.

“EXILE BEST HITS~” is a 2-disc set made up of love ballads “LOVE SIDE” and up-tempo numbers “SOUL SIDE“. It’s a compilation of their hit tracks since their debut in 2001.

Source: Oricon

Check out EXILE’s full PV for “Bloom”!

The full PV for EXILE’s new song, “Bloom“, has been revealed!

“Bloom” was written by EXILE ATSUSHI as a wedding gift to fellow member HIRO, who recently got married to actress Ueto Aya. It’s one of the tracks off of EXILE’s latest best-of album, ‘EXILE BEST HITS -LOVE SIDE / SOUL SIDE-‘, which was released on December 5th.

Check out the PV below!

MV / EXILE Bloom by HDnakkyun

“OKAXILE” makes an appearance at EXILE’s Tokyo Dome concert

On December 11th, Okamura Takashi of comedian duo Ninety Nine made an appearance at EXILE’s live concert, “EXILE LIVE TOUR 2011 TOWER OF WISH ~Negai no Tou~“, at Tokyo Dome.

The last time Okamura appeared on EXILE’s live was back in August 2007 at Tokyo Big Sight. It’s been 4 years since the return of “OKAXILE“, so the crowd of 50,000 fans were at the climax of their excitement.

After dancing as a part of E-Girls and EXPG Kids Dancers, Okamura forced his way onto the stage during EXILE’s charity song, “Rising Sun“, in a security officer costume. In closing, the group presented an outstanding performance of “CHOO CHOO Okamura TRAIN“.

Footage from this concert will air on Fuji TV’s “Mecha ×2 Iketeru! Special” on January 7th.

Furthermore, on January 1st, EXILE will release their new album, “EXILE JAPAN“, and ATSUSHI will release his first solo album, “EXILE ATSUSHI /Solo“.

Check out pictures from the concert below!

Source & Photos: Oricon

EXILE releases full PV for “This is My Life” + covers + tracks for “EXILE JAPAN/Solo”

Just a couple of days ago, R&B group EXILE released a short version PV of “This is My Life“. Now, the full PV has been released.

The track is on the group’s upcoming album “EXILE JAPAN/Solo“. The album will be released on New Year’s Day and come with two CDs. One CD will be EXILE’s album and the second will be the solo album of member ATSUSHI.

The album will come in three editions in which two will include DVDs.

You can can check out the covers, tracks, and full PV of “This is My Life” below.

-

EX_ILE / This_is_my_life by Danseryu
-

Regular Edition

< Disc 1 – EXILE JAPAN >
01. This is My Life
02. NEVER LOSE
03. Anata he
04. Inochi no Hana
05. Everlasting Song
06. Beautiful Life
07. DANCE EARTH ~BEAT TRIP~
08. LA LA LA LOVE SONG
09. Make It Last Forever
10. PLACE
11. today…
12. Ti Amo -Unplugged Version-
13. I Wish For You -Tower Of Wish Version-
14. Rising Sun
15. Someday -House Mix 2012-

< Disc 2 – Atsushi Solo >
01. Freak Out feat. DOBERMAN INC/ DOBERMAN INC
02. Another World
03. Negai -Album ver.-
04. Kotoba ni Dekinai
05. Change my mind feat. VERBAL
06. Ooo Baby
07. Itsuka Kitto…
08. BLACK RAIN
09. So Special -Version EX-
10. forever love
11. You’re my “HERO”
12. Sora no Kanata he
13. END OF THE DAY feat.Boyz II Men -A’s Urban Version-
14. Golden Smile feat. Kubota Shinobu

-

Limited Edition

*Disc 1 & 2 tracks are the same

< DVD – 2 disc >
[ Disc 1 ]
1. Rising Sun (PV)
2. Anata he (PV)
3. This is My Life (Making)
4. Rising Sun (Making)
5. Anata he (Making)
6. This is My Life (Making)

[ Disc 2 ]
1. Itsua Kitto… (PV)
2. Ooo Baby (PV)
3. Itsuka Kitto… (Making)
4. Ooo Baby (Making)

-

First Press Limited Edition

*Disc 1 & 2 tracks are the same.
*DVD disc 1 & 2 are the same.
*DVD disc 3 & 4 are music videos.

[ Disc 3 ]
01. Everything
02. Lovers Again
03. Dou
04. EVOLUTION
05. SUMMER TIME LOVE
06. Toki no Kakera
07. 24karats -type EX-
08. I Believe
09. Touch The Sky feat. Bach Logic
10. Pure
11. Choo Choo TRAIN
12. Ginga Tetsudou 999
13. real world
14. SUPER SHINE
15. So Special -Version EX-
16. Eastern Boyz ‘N Eastern Girlz
17. Ti Amo Chapter 1
18. Ti Amo Chapter 2
19. Your eyes only ~Aimai na boku no Katachi~
20. Tada… Aitakute
21. Boku he
22. Love, Dream & Happiness

[ Disc 4 ]
01. The Beginning Of EXILE GENERATION
02. Someday
03. FIREWORKS
04. Yasashii Hikari
05. Futasu no Kuchibiru (Full version)
06. Aisubeki Mirai he
07. VICTORY
08. 24karats STAY GOLD
09. Negai
10. Motto Tsuyoku
11. I Wish For You
12. Each Other’s Way ~Tabi no Tochuu~

Source: CD Japan

Exile releases short version PV for “This is My Life”

Earlier this month popular group EXILE announced they would release a new album on New Years Day, ‘EXILE JAPAN/Solo‘.

Production for the album began after the Tohoku earthquake, as the boys felt inspired by the motto, “We want to do our best with everybody to make Japan high-spirited soon through entertainment“.  avex recently uploaded the short version of the PV for one of the album’s tracks, “This is My Life“.

The PV focuses on various forms of plant and animal live. With stunning cinematography and clips of EXILE’s trademark showmanship, the PV is set to be an inspiration for fans entering the new year.

EXILE to release their 2nd “Hiruzairu” DVD

EXILE has announced that they’ll be releasing a second DVD for their program, “Hiruzairu“, on January 18th.

Titled “Hiruzairu 2nd HALF BOX“, the DVD will feature episodes from October 2010 to March 2011, running for a total duration of 506 minutes. The DVD will also come with a booklet and a special disc containing unreleased scenes.

“Hiruzairu” is a variety show where EXILE and a featured guest venture out into the city, and respond to viewers’ requests.

Source + Image: natalie

EXILE’s AKIRA & TAKAHIRO become image characters for social game, “Seiken Kerberos”

On November 21st, EXILE’s AKIRA and TAKAHIRO attended a CM presentation event for GREE’s social game, “Seiken Kerberos“.

AKIRA, who was rumored to be in a relationship with actress Nagasawa Masami, was asked about his Christmas plans. He responded, “Our concert is near so I want to spend an enjoyable time with the members.” When TAKAHIRO added a follow-up by saying, “I want AKIRA-san to open up his schedule to go on a date with me,” AKIRA laughed and said, “Out of respect, I’ll excuse myself into TAKAHIRO’s room.”

“Seiken Kerberos” is a card battle RPG that allows players to go on various adventures to build up the strongest force. The first series of the CM will come in two parts: “AKIRA” and “TAKAHIRO”. It portrays AKIRA and TAKAHIRO as heavily-armed courageous swordsmen who prepare for battle.

For the game’s CM, TAKAHIRO challenged himself to try sword battles and horse riding for the first time. He commented, “I was very scared, but I tried my best not to show my frightened expressions.” Meanwhile, AKIRA, who has personal experience with those two skills, said, “I practiced by watching wonderful acting.” TAKAHIRO added, “He is quick-witted and is very capable. I grew impatient while watching him getting filmed.”

The new CM for “Seiken Kerberos” will broadcast starting November 25th.

Check out pictures from the event below!

Source + Photos: Oricon

EXILE to star in new CM for “Hot Pepper Gourmet”

On November 16th, it was revealed that EXILE would be starring in a new CM for the gourmet website, “Hot Pepper Gourmet“.

In the CM, the members (MATSU, USA, MAKIDAI, KENCHI, KEIJI, and TETSUYA) were gathered at a year-end party, and talked about their true feelings through their own puppets.

The CM will come in 6 different versions: “Man or Woman”, “MVP”, “True Friendship”, “Vocal Desire”, “The Person I Admire”, and “Stories of Hardship”.

When the members saw the puppets that were made in their image, they were overjoyed, and played around with them during intervals of the CM shoot. Out of the staff’s request, the puppets danced to EXILE’s hit song, “choo choo train“. Although they had a difficult time getting the puppets to dance on the low table, they were able to overcome it with their excellent teamwork.

After the CM shoot, MATSU commented, “We were able to shoot in an enjoyable atmosphere just like EXILE backstage.” MAKIDAI also added, “I think it turned out to be a CM that delivers the voices within our hearts.” Meanwhile, KENCHI stated, “Through the puppets, we were able to strongly reflect the relationships between the ’senpai’ and ‘kouhai’. I think it turned out to be very interesting.”

Finally, the members showed confidence in their new CM by saying, “Please watch it!”

The new CM will air starting November 18th.

Check out screen shots of the CM below!

Source + Photos: Oricon

EXILE reveals full PV for “Anata e”!

Popular group EXILE revealed a short PV for their upcoming winter ballad single, “Anata e“. Now, on November 5th, they have revealed the full version of this video in all its 7-minute glory!

As the holiday season is coming closer, EXILE manages to capture the magical atmosphere of winter with various beautiful shots of the members.

Check it out below!

EXILE reveals short PV for “Anata e”

EXILE has finally released the PV for their gorgeous ballad, “Anata e“.

Now that the Christmas season is coming up, the boys decided to infuse a serene winter element in their music video. It’s resulted in a beautiful PV that showcases the members’ suave charm.

EXILE will release their new single on November 23rd, but until then, check out the PV below:

Big Bang wins “Best Worldwide Act” at MTV’s 2011 Europe Music Awards

The 2011 MTV Europe Music Awards aired today live from Belfast’s Odyssey Arena.  Aside from mega-superstars Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, LMFAO,  and Coldplay,  five member band, Big Bang, attended as they were nominated in the Worldwide Act category.

Big Bang stunned audiences by winning the award just moments ago. The Worldwide Act category celebrates diversity and the breadth of all the music that MTV has to offer by nominating incredible artists from all corners of the world.

There were two rounds of voting.  First, each region had an opportunity to vote among MTVs choices for the seven artists that best represent the region.  In the Asia Pacific category, in addition to Big Bang,Exile (Japan), Jay Chou (Republic of China/Taiwan), Gotye (Australia), Sia (Australia), Jane Zhang(China), and Agnes Monica (Indonesia) were nominated.

After weeks of voting  Big Bang won for the Asia Pacific region and advanced to the finals along with Abdelfattah Grini (Africa/India/Middle East), Lena (Europe), Restart (Latin America), and Britney Spears (North America).

Due an impressive amount of voting by VIPs and fans all over the world, Big Bang won the coveted award.  They will have the honor of being the first ‘Worldwide Act’ award recipients.

Congratulations Big Bang! Check out a clip of their win below:

Red Carpet Interview :


Source: MTV EMA 2011

AKB48, Koda Kumi, EXILE, and more perform at Japan-Vietnam Friendship Music Festival

On October 9th, “The 2nd Japan-Vietnam Music Festival~Kono Heiwa wo Yume mite~” which was proposed by singer/actor Sugi Ryotaro, was held at the Opera House in Hanoi, Vietnam.  This music festival was held to thank Vietnam for their support for the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, and to celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the venue.

As reported back in August,  7 groups of artists, such as AKB48, Koda Kumi, and EXILE, attended the music festival.

The first up was AKB48, and they performed two songs.  A member, Takahashi Minami said to the audience, “If there would be our sister group here in Vietnam, would it be ‘VTN48′?  Girls here are very pretty, so I would mention that to Akimoto-sensei (=Akimoto Yasushi)!”  She also said that the members enjoyed sightseeing during their free time.

Koda Kumi also appeared, and showed her performance in sexy costume which was rare in Vietnam.  She greeted, “I would like to become a bridge between Japan and Vietnam.”, and performed “Ai no Kotoba.”

The last performer was the special ambassador for Japan and Vietnam, Sugi Ryotaro.  He performed “Bara-iro no Dance” with 50 orphans, and thanked people in Vietnam for their support.

EXILE, Godai Natsuko, w-inds., AAA also performed at the festival.  Check out the photos from the music festival below!

Source & Image: tokyohive ,Sanspo (1 + 2), Sponichi Annex

EXILE’s ATSUSHI participates in BOYZ II MEN’s upcoming album

Share on Tumblr

It’s been revealed that EXILE’s ATSUSHI will be making a guest appearance in the Japanese edition of BOYZ II MEN’s new album, “TWENTY“.

In 2006, ATSUSHI was featured in BOYZ II MEN’s original album, “The Remedy“, on the collaboration song, “Muzak feat. ATSUSHI (EXILE)“. Regarding their collaboration, member Wanya Morris commented, “ATSUSHI is an important page in our 20 year career. We wanted him to participate. Moreover, it’s a wonderful song.” Their collaboration number, “End Of The Day“, can be found as the bonus track in the Japanese edition of the album.

“TWENTY” will be released on October 12th as BOYZ II MEN’s 20th anniversary album. Disc 1 will feature brand new songs, while disc 2 will include re-recordings of their hit songs. A portion of the bonus track, “End Of The Day”, is available for listening on their official website.

Source: natalie

Ueto Aya smoothly avoids questions about EXILE’s HIRO

Share on Tumblr

On September 26th, actress Ueto Aya attended a presentation event for NEXCO’s new CM for the Tomei Expressway.

The event was held to promote the intensive work on the new Tomei Expressway, which will start on October 11th. Ueto commented, “I ride the expressway almost everyday for work. The breeze feels good, and I like to look at the scenery.”

Reporters took this opportunity to question her about EXILE’s HIRO, saying, “Is your relationship going steady?” Ueto merely gave a smile and replied, “Thank you,” before leaving  the stage.

The CM will broadcast on TVs nationwide starting September 27th.

Source + Photo: Nikkan Sports

Happiness performs at ‘China-Japan-Korea Music Festival’

On September 25th, EXILE’s sibling group Happiness performed in ‘China-Japan-Korea Music Festival‘ at Beijing National Stadium as Japan’s representatives.

Vocalist MAYU greeted the audience saying, “I am happy to perform in Beijing.” They sang a total of two songs, and showed their energy by singing the bridge of “WISH” in Chinese.

During the finale, Happiness took the stage with Chinese unit Seishun Bishoujo and Korean group f(x) to represent the 12 participating artists. They each sang “Hotaru no Hikari” in their own languages, and finished the song in Chinese.

Source + Photos: Sanspo

Recochoku’s weekly download charts for 09/14~09/20

Share on Tumblr

Recochoku has just updated their weekly charts for the week of September 14th to September 20th.

Check out the top ranking digital singles, chaku-uta, and music videos for this week below!

—

< Chaku-Uta Full (Digital Single) Weekly Ranking >

01/(00) “Ai wo Tomenaide” — Koda Kumi
02/(00) “Rising Sun” — EXILE
03/(00) “Everybody Go” — Kis-My-Ft2
04/(01) “Itsuka Kitto…” — EXILE ATSUSHI
05/(04) “Flying Get” — AKB48
06/(05) “Kazoku ni Narou yo” — Fukuyama Masaharu
07/(00) “Shinjirumono feat. YU-A, AK-69 & HAN-KUN from Shonan no Kaze” — SPICY CHOCOLATE
08/(07) “LOVE IS ECSTASY” — Nakashima Mika
09/(00) “Koe wo Kikasete” — BENI
10/(03) “progress” — Hamasaki Ayumi

** “Chaku-Uta Full” is nothing but a synonym for a complete digital single.

—

< Chaku-Uta (Ringtone) Weekly Ranking >

01/(00) “X X X” — L’Arc～en～Ciel
02/(01) “Ai wo Tomenaide” — Koda Kumi
03/(13) “Rising Sun” — EXILE
04/(00) “Back to Tomorrow” — Tohoshinki
05/(00) “Zutto Kimi to…” — INFINITY 16 welcomez TEE ＆ hiroko from mihimaru GT
06/(00) “CRAZY FOR YOU” — Kylee
07/(02) “Itsuka Kitto…” — EXILE ATSUSHI
08/(00) “B.U.T(BE-AU-TY)” — Tohoshinki
09/(16) “LOVE IS ECSTASY” — Nakashima Mika
10/(00) “Green a.live” — YUI

** “Chaku-Uta” are short versions (30~40 seconds) of songs that can easily be used as ring tones (truetone). They are usually encoded in MP3, AAC, and other similar formats.

—

< Music Video Weekly Ranking >

01/(00) “Ai wo Tomenaide” — Koda Kumi
02/(00) “Rising Sun” — EXILE
03/(02) “Flying Get” — AKB48
04/(01) “A” — RAINBOW
05/(05) “Everyday, Kachusha” — AKB48
06/(03) “BAD GIRL” — Shoujo Jidai
07/(06) “Heavy Rotation” — AKB48
08/(04) “Itsuka Kitto…” — EXILE ATSUSHI
09/(00) “A (Dance Shot ver.)” — RAINBOW
10/(07) “Maru-Maru-Mori-Mori!” — Kaoru to Tomoki, Tama ni Mook.

—

The complete top 100 of the weekly rankings; daily and other rankings can be found here: Recochoku