[Trans] 29.05.2011 Ayu’s Tweets Update!

Misa-chan's page for the full translations

29th May 2011

Translation: Misa-chan @ AHS
Original source: Ayu’s Twitter
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[Blog] 30.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “Let’s Hold Hands ④”

Many people came down to watch Day 2′s show at Osaka Jou Hall

despite the raging storm!!!

Thinking of everyone queuing up in the rain,

A Troupe was filled with energy, and was able to deliver the show with full power!

Seeing everyone enjoying themselves makes us reeeeeeeeeally happy (*´∇｀*)

Alright, here’s a little story.

We essentially deliver the same show to the Kansai and Kanto audiences, but the audiences definitely respond to us in different ways.

Judging by the audience reactions, we can mostly tell that 「Yes~ Here we are back at 〇〇」.

More under the cut!

By the way, everyone from the Kansai region are generally energetic, laugh easily (←really), and treat all of us on stage as friends and talk to us like so.

What really leaves an impression is how loud you guys shout 『ayuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!!!』. There was always a small echo. (laugh)
(※How you guys use all your might to tell us your feelings was really cute (*^^*) )

This weekend, we’ll be returning to Yokohama Arena.

Kanto team, get your spirits up, don’t lose out to the Kansai team ☆↑↑

OK OK,

it’s time for the 『Let’s Hold Hands Campaign』.

Last time, we had extended our circle of drawings to GO-MI-san,



Next is…….



The one who revealed his own artwork on Twitter recently, MARO-san!!

He has his own style ♪

He even has a heart ring on his right arm to link to the next person!



The one who revealed his own artwork on Twitter recently, MARO-san!!

He has his own style ♪

He even has a heart ring on his right arm to link to the next person!

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Audio] 30.05.2011 "progress" Preview TALES OF XILLIA Theme Song by Ayumi Hamasaki

The theme song's preview of the new game series TALES OF XILLIA, "progress" by Ayumi Hamasaki is out!

Check it out below:



Credit: nbgi @ Youtube + AyumiJae_TVXQ @ Twitter
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[Blog] 29.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “OK OK!!”

Day 2 at Osaka Jou Hall

will be starting soon!!!!!!



Yankashi: 「You~ Get in the mood!」
KAZUMA: 「Oh, OK」

So so scary (・_;

Everyone, please have a meal, drink plenty of water, and visit the washroom before the show!

A-STAFF Minazou

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Blog] 29.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “Osaka Jou Hall Day 1 ★”

All the audience…….

Were so energetic!!

Not wanting to lose out, the A troupe heated up as well ↑↑↑

Let us use these 2 powers combined together again

to create the best memories for Day 2 ＼(＾▽＾)／

This entry is a little short,

so here’s some images of the still high A troupe after the show!

AKI-san & Hiroshi-san ♪

MIDORI-san & Drums Daichi-san (his debut on this blog) ♪

And one of the most colourful characters in A troupe ↓↓↓



The “sniggering” Tomonari-san (laugh)

That’s it ☆

A-STAFF Minazou

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Lyric] 29.05.2011 Tentative Lyric of "progress" TALES OF XILLIA Theme Song

Here's the translation of the tentative lyric of "progress" heard by a fan who attended the TALES OF XILLIA Event.

Kanji

あの時に　あの場所に居て
戦って　いた自分が
全てが　今を選ぶ
ためだったとしたらなら(ば?)
向きあえず　置き去りなまま
目をそらしていた過去を
許したと思うのは
許されたからなのか　なら
僕ら　彼方　自由で
見かねた　あの頃はどうして
無邪気な笑顔だけじゃ
思う方へ　過ごせないけど
僕らは　進んでいく
それでも進み　続けてく
何かを信じられる心が　見守ってくれるから（皆見守っているから）
wow wow wow
wow wow yeah~!!

Translation:

If in that time, at that place
I was fighting
And my reason for doing so
Was because I chose to be here now
Without direction, left behind
I used to look up at the sky
If I thought I had forgiven that past
Is it because I had been forgiven?
We were free to look
Upon them. Why were they
Full of innocent smiles then?
Those who think this way cannot go on
But let us move on
Even so, let us continue to move on
Because a heart that believes, will be watched over us/everyone
wow wow wow
wow wow yeah~!!

Credit: truehappiness @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
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[News] 29.05.2011 Report from “Tales of Festival 2011″ Including Theme Song by Ayumi Hamasaki

Producer Baba reveals latest news about 『Tales of Xillia』! 【Report from “Tales of Festival 2011″】

● A Brand New Opening Movie!

On 28 May 2011, “Tale of Festival 2011″ launched its opening show at Pacifico Yokohama. This is an introductory report on the series’ newest work 『Tales of Xillia』 (known as 『TOX』), which was featured in the show’s 2nd half.

Mr Baba Hideo from Bandai Namco Games took the stage as 『TOX』 Producer. Together with voice actors Mr Onosaka Masaya (Zelos from 『Tales of Symphonia』), Ms Morinaga Rika (Rita from 『Tales of Vesperia』) and Mr Yonaga Tsubosa, who is voicing lead character Jude in 『TOX』, he revealed some of the latest news about 『TOX』.

More under the cut!

First up was a video message from Hamasaki Ayumi-san, who will be singing the theme song for 『TOX』. As the representative music Queen of Japan, her message created excitement at the “Tales of Festival 2011″ venue! Furthermore, the theme song title was revealed to be 『progress』. This title was given to flow with the game’s theme, with a wish to “move forward, while holding on to unwavering faith”.



The opening movie was accompanied by backing soundtrack 『progress』, and the “Tales of Festival 2011″ was officially open! The ufotable crew had a hand in the creation of the high-quality opening movie, which left the audience silent and captivated.

Next, 2 PVs about 『TOX』 were revealed. One depicted the scenarios in the game, the other described the systems. The first PV included enchanting scenes of the characters, as well as an as-yet-unrevealed enemy(?) character. The second PV showed off the playable fields in the game, plus high-speed battle scenes involving the characters. These PVs are to be available on the main website from 30 May onwards.

After the PVs, the release date of the game was revealed to be 8 September 2011, an announcement received by applause from the audience. A collaboration package of illustrations by Mr Fujishima Kousuke and Mr Inomata Mitsumi was also revealed, causing the excitement level at the venue to rise even higher.

Parts unrelated to Ayu omitted

Credit: HTMSD @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: Famitsu

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[Photo] 29.05.2011 Ayumi Hamasaki's Photos in LOVE&HOPE Photobook by Leslie Kee More Photos!

Some more photos from inside the photobook, Ayu's words taken from "A Song is born" lyric.

Credit: Yannetakizawa @ AHS
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[Fanaccount] 28.05.2011 Fukuoka Day 2: 22.05.2011

Fan reports of AT2011 at Fukuoka, Days 1 and 2, from the TeamAyu forum at Spoilers BBS

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 22:03:55

Here’s some information about the video that was played on Day 1.

By the way, this information contains details that are only available on TA.

In the past, ayu-chan has posted photos of her hand reaching up to the blue sky on TA’s “ayu’s diary”. Overseas fans from many countries have followed suit, and reached out their hands to their skies, wishing to tell us that “even if we are separate, the sky connects us all”. As the video was playing, background music featuring Daybreak was played.

more under the cut!

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 22:26:23

Here’s some spoilers from Day 2.

During the mini MC session after the 1st song forgiveness, ayu suddenly called out “Eh!? My earplugs are gone!” Peco-san and Princess then searched all over ayu-chan’s body trying to find it. In the end, the earplug was stuck in ayu-chan’s ear the whole time. She was so cute

As for the setlist, similar to yesterday, 1 chorus of poker face was performed, followed by the full version of key.

During key, she mixed up lyrics again, so she resang the whole song

Yesterday, 17th song UNITE! was replaced by Boys & Girls. Today, she performed Boys & Girls also.

ayu-chan has been crying in every live during the last song A Song is born, but today, she only teared up.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 22:29:46

For today’s MC, ayu-chan started out by shouting “Today’s Day 2, but I’m baaaaaack!” and the audience replied with “Welcome baaack!”.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 23/5/2011 00:08:04

This time, most of the songs have been rearranged, but some have retained most of their original sound.

monochrome
fairyland
vogue
Far away
SEASONS
A Song for…
M

These songs resemble the original versions.

As for monochrome and SEASONS, she has yet to sing the full versions.

Credit: truehappiness @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: Ichigo-tan @ Japanese BBS
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[Blog] 28.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “Alright!!!”

EMI-san having her meal, OK!!!!



GO-MI-san stretching, OK!!!!!




Osaka Jou Hall, let’s rock!!!!!!!

A-STAFF Minazou

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Trans] 28.05.2011 Ayu’s Tweets Update!

Misa-chan's page for the full translations

28th May 2011

Translation: Misa-chan @ AHS
Original source: Ayu’s Twitter
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[Info] 28.05.2011 TALES OF XILLIA's Theme Song "progress" by Ayumi Hamasaki

So the theme song title of "TALES OF XILLIA" isn't "making fate" it's "progress" instead.

a blog writer said that it's a cool song. so it's not a ballad then.



part of the song's lyric:

浜崎あゆみ「progress」
歌詞は暫定版　　耳コピ

あの時に　あの場所に居て　
戦って　いた自分が
全てが　今を選ぶ　　　　　
ためだったとしたらなら(ば?)　　　
向きあえず　置き去りなまま　
目をそらしていた過去を
許したと思うのは
許されたからなのか　なら
僕ら　彼方　自由で　　　　　
見かねた　あの頃はどうして
無邪気な笑顔だけじゃ 　　
思う方へ　過ごせないけど
僕らは　進んでいく　　　　　
それでも進み　続けてく
何かを信じられる心が　見守ってくれるから（皆見守っているから）
wow wow wow
wow wow yeah~!!

Credit: truehappiness + HTMSD @ AHS
Original source: tales-f @ ameblo
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[Photo] 28.05.2011 Ayumi Hamasaki at Leslie Kee's LOVE&HOPE Photobook Exhibition

Pictures of Ayu attending LOVE&HOPE Photobook exhibition!

At the tonite's party☆写真左から、Keita Maruyama,ayu,Leslieで～っす。

with Leslie Kee and Erika Sawajiri

With Leslie Kee & Ryan

Original source: Ayu's Twitter
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[Photo] 28.05.2011 Ayumi Hamasaki's Photos in LOVE&HOPE Photobook by Leslie Kee

Pictures of Ayu inside the LOVE&HOPE Photobook.

GORGEOUS! *o*

Credit: http://www.ayuparadise.c.la/
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[Trans] 26.05.2011 - 27.05.2011 Ayu’s Tweets Update!

Misa-chan's page for the full translations

26th May - 27th May 2011

Translation: Misa-chan @ AHS
Original source: Ayu’s Twitter
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[Photo] 27.05.2011 Leslie Kee's LOVE&HOPE Photobook Event Pictures

Leslie Kee's LOVE&HOPE Photobook supported by Tiffany & Co starts today!

So here are some of the pictures from the event.





Bonus:

Bigger Pictures of covers of LOVE&HOPE Photobook

Thanks truehappiness + Luna62 @ AHS!



Original source: kayzu_teamayu @ Twitter
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[Fanaccount] 26.05.2011 Fukuoka Day 1: 21.05.2011

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 21/5/2011 08:15:30

Today and tomorrow will be the 2 days at Fukuoka. The hotel key will probably be the hot item again

At 2am last night, several people had already formed a queue, and after 4am, about 50 people were in line.

More under the cut!

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 21/5/2011 11:47:18

ayu-chan has made it clear that there will be something different at today’s Fukuoka show.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 21/5/2011 16:45:14

So, it’s about time for the 2 days at ayu-chan’s hometown Fukuoka!

Really?

It seems to have started raining in Fukuoka after 3pm, but this won’t dampen the excitement and heat at the venue, right?

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 02:37:11

Did the fans’ voices reach ayu-chan?

She seems to have sung Boys&Girls.

In exchange, UNITE! wasn’t performed.

And similar to the Yokohama shows, poker face was performed.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 02:33:29

As I’ve written earlier, there was something different about today’s show.

This took place after the main show was over, after the song Born to be…

After the main show, the curtains fell, and a video started playing.

I don’t really know what the video was about, but it seemed that overseas fans had asked for ayu to use this video during today’s show via Twitter a few days ago.

And a couple of days ago (Friday), it seemed that ayu-chan realized this and decided to respond to these fans’ wishes.

By the way, according to some tweets posted yesterday evening, ayu-chan took up this sudden project, and spent the entire night editing the video for use in today’s live.

I’m not sure of the video’s contents, but it may have had something to do with this show’s theme.

Nah~ ayu-chan was probably just thinking of her fans

I’ll be taking part in the 2 days at Osaka next week, so if the video is shown again, I’ll post a report here

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 08:28:04

For Day 2 at Fukuoka today, there was a queue for the goods booth since 7am, and the popular item is probably the hotel key again.

About 250 people seem to be in line.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 11:58:41

The queue for the goods booths has exceeded 300 people, and it has been raining all morning at Fukuoka, I hope the goods sale will begin soon

And similar to the situation at Yokohama, there are some people who deliberately cut into the queues. I wish they would consider the feelings of those who had been in the queue earlier, as well as the intentions of ayu-chan and goods in-charge Mayuzumi-san in issuing numbered tickets.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 22/5/2011 15:40:36

And here are some spoilers from Day 1 at Fukuoka.

Firstly, about the setlist. As mentioned yesterday, song 17 UNITE! has been replaced by Boys&Girls. poker face was also in the list.

1. forgiveness
(Mini MC: poker face)
2. blossom
3. BLUE BIRD
4. monochrome
5. fairyland
6. A Song for XX
7. M
8. NEVER EVER
9. walking proud
10. part of Me
11. Moments
12. vogue
13. Far away
14. SEASONS
15. Bold & Delicious
16. Mirrorcle World
17. Boys & Girls
18. evolution
19. Born To Be…

-Encore-
20. A Song is born

When ayu-chan came out and opened with first song forgiveness, her voice made everyone feel that “an angel has descended here”.

Shortly after, she launched into the MC session, and sang debut song poker face passionately!

By the way, judging from the MC sessions at Hiroshima, it seemed as if the Fukuoka crowd won’t say things like “Welcome baaaaack!”, but after the first song, the dialogue went,

ayu: “Let me say this first. I’m baaaaaaack!”

audience: “Welcome baaaaaack!”

After that, she spoke in Hakata dialect, and was really cute

And during this show, her penchant(?) for forgetting lyrics seems to be back. While singing the first chorus of Moments, when she was supposed to sing

♪If I were as transcient as a flower, I’d bloom proudly beside you♪

she sang

♪I’d fly to where you are♪ instead

Looking from the stage, there is a runway extending towards the North side, but she seldom walked along it. However, yesterday, when she went onto the runway, she crouched down to face the fans and sang while gently smiling.

Credit: truehappiness @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: Ichigo-tan @ Japanese BBS
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[Trans+Scans] 26.05.2011 ViVi Magazine Deji Deji Diary Vol. 130 Full Translation

After the disaster, the tour, which was scheduled to begin in April, was hurriedly pushed back to May, and the planned show was recreated from scratch by Ayu and her troupe. “We believe in the power of music, and this is the time to send power throughout Japan!” With this thought, the tour 「ayumi hamasaki ~POWER of MUSIC~ 2011 A」 was scheduled to begin from 7 May, at Hiroshima Green Arena. After the live, and even during the show itself, audience members who saw ayu’s show sent in lots of passionate messages via Twitter! This issue, we’ll be introducing those briefly. What did they feel about the POWER of MUSIC?!

TOUR 2011 AUDIENCE

“I thought that the POWER of MUSIC was something that can help to tide us over tough and sorrow-filled times, but that was not all. This show taught me something more, about the magnificence of music.”

“Where exactly in her small body does ayu keep all that power? That power that cheers people up? That power which is so gentle and powerful? A live performance is the place where one can experience those true feelings.”

“Watching the Day 2 show gave me confirmation of what I felt on Day 1, that ayu was a limitless possibility. I won’t lose out on watching any show in this tour!! No, I meant this year’s tour!! (laugh)”

“I’ve been waiting for ayu-chan to become honest, but this has far surpassed my expectations!!!”

“Just how much more will ayu-chan evolve?”

Credits: as tagged + HULUfan @ AHS

Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress.com

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[Fanaccount] 26.05.2011 Yokohama Day 2: 15 .05.2011

One final report of AT2011 at Yokohama, Day 2, from the TeamAyu forum at Spoilers BBS

Author: ken3
Written 20/5/2011 00:47:04

I’m going to write a little about my thoughts too.

I felt a little anxious about this live, so when ayu-chan came out during the opening, I didn’t know whether I should stand up and wave (laugh)

But ayu-chan being ayu, managed to sense everyone’s unease, and so after the opening song on Day 2 of Hiroshima, she added in a mini MC session.

More under the cut!

Because of this mini MC session and the choice of songs, everyone in the arena was able to pace themselves with ayu-chan and everyone soon thought that “Yes, today’s show is so enjoyable!”

To be able to respond to the crowd and make adjustments quickly, she managed to create a better show. I really felt ayu-chan’s awesomeness and gentleness.

> By the way, what did you think of the newly rearranged songs?
> Was there anything fresh and new?

The tour has just begun, so there’s not much to say.

「A Song for XX」 has always been an awesome song, but this time, with the horn section, it’s become a really cool song! Along with ayu-chan’s voice, this has become a more emotional version of the original. As the song played out, I felt myself getting hotter!

Next up was 「Ｍ」. I thought I couldn’t feel any hotter, but I did… The intro began really suddenly, and seemed to pull us right along. In the midst of a rock arrangement, there were strings as well, and matched with ayu-chan’s present voice, this song was done well.

My younger sis and her daughters (high school girls) came too, and though they didn’t change into the tour shirts, they were similarly very satisfied with the show.

With this show, ayu-chan has stepped up one more level.

I can just imagine her saying “Just keep quiet and come along, I’ll show you an even more awesome show next time!!”

Sorry for the long post.

Credit: truehappiness @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: Ichigo-tan @ Japanese BBS
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[Trans] 22.05.2011 - 23.05.2011 Ayu’s Tweets Update!

Misa-chan's page for the full translations

22th May 2011

23th May 2011

Translation: Misa-chan @ AHS
Original source: Ayu’s Twitter
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[News] 24.05.2011 Japan Today: ‘Mrs’ Ayumi Hamasaki Poses In First Sexy Shot After Marriage

‘Mrs’ Ayumi Hamasaki poses in first sexy shot after marriage

TOKYO —
Singer Ayumi Hamasaki, 32, was chosen among other world celebrities for the cover of “LOVE & HOPE,” a charity photo book created by renowned celebrity photographer Leslie Kee to raise money for the victims of Japan’s earthquake and tsunami.

Hamasaki and Kee, longtime acquaintances, began sharing their thoughts on the March disaster and exchanged ideas on ways to help the victims via Twitter shortly after the March 11 disaster.

According to organizers, the cover photo, taken in April, has Hamasaki posing with a short haircut and a diamond ring on her left hand. The photo is her first sexy shot after her January marriage to Austrian actor and model Manuel Schwarz. “I hope that this photo book will bring love and hope to many people around the world,” Hamasaki said in a statement.

The photo book also features portraits of over 200 celebrities, including Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez. All the proceeds will go toward reconstruction of the stricken areas through the Japan Red Cross.

The book, which costs 5,250 yen, goes on sale on June 1. A photo exhibition will open in Omotesando Hills in Tokyo starting on Friday, May 27.

Original source: Japan Today
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[Blog] 23.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “Oh…”

Talking about that, someone changed his hairstyle too.

Security’s Hiroshi-san.



We seldom have photos taken of him, so sorry to thrust him here suddenly in front of everyone.

Once Armageddon-san looks away,

Security’s Hiroshi-san’s face immediately goes strange.

More under the cut!



Maybe he’s high on oolong tea.

At first glance… Nah, these two security always look imposing,

but they are really nice to those who abide by the rules.

And so, to all those who came to see us off at Fukuoka Airport, while lining up so neatly,



Thank you for cooperating ヽ(^^)(^^)ノ

A-STAFF Minazou

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Blog] 23.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “Fashion Check ☆”

The 2 days at Marine Messe Fukuoka are over in the blink of the eye!!

Time flies when you’re having fun… （；へ：）

But~,

We’ll be returning to Marine Messe in a powered-up form next month

So everyone, please show us your best winning smiles then too ☆

Alright,

This time, we’ll be showing off the street clothes of our fashion-loving female dancers!

They even posed for us~.

First up, EKKO-san and EMI-san ★

More under the cut!



Cool black style~.

These two seem to like styles with pants.

So cool!! (≧⊥≦)ｂ

And next

MIDORI-san & AKI-san ☆



On MIDORI-san, the rare bun hairstyle.

The not-too-casual black overalls really suit her well ♪

And our hat-queen AKI-san.

She likes wearing hats, paired with Western-style clothes.

With attention to accessories, she’s born with the love for fashion.

And so, we have the shows at Osaka Jou Hall this weekend!!

We’ll recharge well and bring the best show to you!!!

Look forward to it ☆

A-STAFF Minazou

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Info] 23.05.2011 Leslie Kee’s World’s 200 Most Beautiful Women Come Together with “Love & Hope” Charity Photobook 『TIFFANY SUPPORTS “LOVE & HOPE”』!

More detail information regarding to Leslie Kee's LOVE&HOPE Photobook.

Leslie Kee, who was filming and visiting in Ishinomaki City and Onagawa Town, Miyagi Prefecture during the earthquake, was rendered shocked and wordless by the disaster. As a photographer who started his career here, he wanted to bring “LOVE & HOPE” to Japan, his beloved 2nd home, by putting together 200 portraits of female celebrities from 32 different countries, taken during his 7-year stay in NY, into a charity photobook. Limited to 2500 copies, these will be released for sale on 1 June 2011. The entire price of 5,250yen will go directly to Japan Red Cross, for the affected regions.

Photographer: Leslie Kee’s World’s 200 Most Beautiful Women Come Together with “Love & Hope” Charity Photobook
『TIFFANY SUPPORTS “LOVE & HOPE” LESLIE KEE』



Release Date: 1 June 2011
B4 size. 252 pages
Price: 5,250yen
Cover: Hamasaki Ayumi
*2 different covers are available, with the same content within.
Participating Artistes: 200 celebrities from 32 countries
*Photobook contains photos of 200 celebrities from 32 countries, Hamasaki Ayumi included.
*This is not a photobook of Hamasaki Ayumi.

＜＜How to Purchase＞＞

☆ Leslie Kee Photo Exhibition 「LOVE & HOPE」 Venue Purchase (Omotesando Hills Main Building B3F Space-Oh) *Free Entrance

【Sales Period】 27 May ~ 31 May
27 May – 11:00~17:00
28 May – 11:00~21:00
29 May – 11:00~20:00
30 May – 11:00~21:00
31 May – 11:00~18:00

Purchase at this venue is before the actual release date, and the book will be signed by Leslie Kee.

☆ Amazon.co.jp
【Sales Period】 1 June~

☆ Francfranc Aoyama
【Sales Period】 1 June~

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ Wordpress
Original source: Ayu's Official Site
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[News] 23.05.2011 Tiffany & Co. Supports LOVE&HOPE Photobook By Leslie Kee

Leslie Kee Photobook Project "LOVE&HOPE" for Japan's Charity and Ayu is the cover for this special photobook. There will be two covers available.

According to Tiffany & Co. website, this book will begin on sale start from 1st June 2011 and can be purchased through amazon.co.jp, for online sale only.

From Tiffany & Co. Official Website

From Ayu's Official Website

There will be LOVE&HOPE event at Omotesando Hills, starting from 27th - 31st May and also at Francfranc at Aoyama starting from 1st June. It will also have the autograph session by Leslie Kee for every Photobook purchased.

The schedules of the event:

27th May Friday 11:00-17:00
28th May Saturday 11:00-21:00
29th May Sunday 11:00-20:00
30th May Monday 11:00-21:00
31st May Tuesday 11:00-18:00

Photobook's description:

B4 size and 252 Pages.

It will include 200 female celebrities from 32 countries who have participated on this photobook.

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Credits:

tokyoxjapanxfan + Ohsixthirty @ AHS
Original sources: Tiffany & Co.'s and Ayu's Official Websites
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[Blog] 22.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “Fukuoka Marine Messe ☆”

Despite the bad weather at Fukuoka,

the crowds at the venue were unmindful and still rocked it up ↑↑↑

Even those who weren’t used to exercising regularly were made to work up a sweat yesterday.

And because it was troupe leader ayu’s hometown, all one could hear was Hakata dialect ♪

Let’s dye the venue pink and get the mood up for Day 2 as well ☆

More under the cut!



And then, in the catering room after the show,



was a lady sorting out the trash…..

NOT

That is the fevered goods I/C Mayuzumi-san.

From early in the morning till the end of the show, she has never rested, running to and fro doing stuff!

And there she was finally resting. Sorry to have taken this photo in front of the rubbish bags. (laugh)

And here’s another busy runner.

The life of TA: fanclub manager Mr Hoji.



He looks cool with the tour T-shirt ☆

If you have any queries about ｢TeamAyu｣, feel free to ask him!

He will answer you really nicely.

And lastly….



Director Nomizo, who looks like he’s digging his nose but he’s actually not (laugh)

We’ll be counting on all of you tomorrow too!!!

Let’s enjoy Day 2 at Fukuoka Marine Messe with all our mights!! Ouuuuu!!!! ＼(^o＼) (／o^)／

A-STAFF Minazou


Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Trans] 18.05.2011 - 21.05.2011 Ayu’s Tweets Update!

Just go to Misa-chan's page for the full translations

18th May 2011 - 21th May 2011

Translation: Misa-chan @ AHS
Original source: Ayu’s Twitter
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[Blog] 19.05.2011 POWER of MUSIC Blog Update: “Let’s Hold Hands ③””

Last time



The ring of “Let’s hold hands” had extended up till new member KO-kun,

More under the cut!

so who will be next???



It’s EKKO-san ♪

With a little shoujou manga flair, that’s cute.



Does it look like her~??

And next up….

DOOON!!!!



Go-mi-san ☆

Is it cute, or is it scary? (laugh)

It’s interesting to look at how everyone’s drawings reveal their personalities ♪

And so, look forward to the next update~ （○゜ε＾○）

A-STAFF Minazou

Credit & Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: POWER of MUSIC Official Blog
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[Official] 20.05.2011 Ayumi Hamasaki To Release Her Past LIVE Concerts in BLU-RAY!

It's also been announced today that avex is going to release Ayu's past LIVE Concerts into BLU-RAY version!

All will be released on 20th July 2011!

Check them out below!

ayumi hamasaki ARENA TOUR 2006 A ~ (miss)understood ~[Blu-ray]
Pre-order here

ayumi hamasaki Countdown Live 2007-2008 Anniversary [Blu-ray]
Pre-order here

ayumi hamasaki Asia Tour 2008 -10th Anniversary- Live in Taipei [Blu-ray]
Pre-order here

ayumi hamasaki Premium Countdown Live 2008-2009 A [Blu-ray]
Pre-order here

ayumi hamasaki Arena Tour 2009 A -Next Level- [Blu-ray]
Pre-order here

ayumi hamasaki Countdown Live 2009-2010 A -Future Classics- [Blu-ray]
Pre-order here

Collect your Blu-ray now!

Original source: CD Japan
Shared by Ayu's Story

[Official] 20.05.2011 ayumi hamasaki COUNTDOWN LIVE 2010-2011 A ~do it again~ DVD & BLU-RAY Release Dates!

Yay Finally the release date of ayumi hamasaki COUNTDOWN LIVE 2010-2011 A ~do it again~ DVD and BLU-RAY is here!!

2011.7.20 in stores
ayumi hamasaki COUNTDOWN LIVE 2010-2011 ～do it again～



【DVD 2 discs】
・AVBD-91871～2　￥6,090

Pre-order here

【Blu-ray DISC】
・AVXD-91639　￥7,140

Pre-order here

Content
01.snowfield
02.Last angel
03.Duty
04.is this LOVE?
05.Marionette -prelude-
06.Marionette
07.Free & Easy
08.Endless sorrow
09.Dearest ~ HEAVEN ~ CAROLS ~ Together When...
10.Aria
11.Humming
12.Bold & Delicious
13.Mirrorcle World
14.SEVEN DAYS WAR
15.evolution
16.Boys & Girls
17.Dream ON
(encore)
18.Love song
19.Virgin Road
20.MOON
21.Trauma ~ AUDIENCE ~ Fly high
22.flower garden
23.Thank U
24.do it again
★making movie

Original source: Ayu's Original site
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[Fanaccount] 18.05.2011 Yokohama Day 2: 15.05.2011

Fan reports of AT2011 at Yokohama, Days 1 and 2, from the TeamAyu forum at Spoilers BBS

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 16/5/2011 02:22:13

Many people who went for the live talked about ayu-chan’s clear voice, and described her as an angel as she sang.

More under the cut!

Author: CHIROL
Written 16/5/2011 21:56:25

Day 2 at Yokohama Arena ☆☆

The show at Yokohama Arena started about 20 minutes late.
Sorry if I can’t remember much.
For the first song forgiveness, ayu-chan’s voice was really beautiful, and I was mesmerized by the power of her voice.
I understood the meaning of “power of music”.
During the mini MC, she talked about how each member has done all he/she could have done.
And as Ichigo-tan-san has mentioned, she sang Key during Day 2 ♪
However, she forgot the lyrics, and incorporated “I forgot the lyrics~ ♪” into the song.
And for some reason, she asked everyone “Would you like the hear Love?”, and hearing cheers going up for Love, she replied with “so you wanna hear Love that badly ♪” and sang it for us.
I wanted to hear Key, especially with her voice now, but too bad she forgot the lyrics
However, as she came down the runway, she touched with many of the audience members.
She didn’t throw a wristband that day.
ayu-chan was really cute, and with such a beautiful voice, she is a true artist.
As for the stage design, maybe it’s just for Yokohama Arena, but I totally couldn’t see the runway from my seat.
The main stage was in the centre, so it was generally easy to view and gave a feeling of togetherness.
I arrived at the venue a little after noon, and got my goods about 30 minutes later.
During dancer introductions, the cheers for Maro and Shu-Ya were really loud.

—–

Author: CHIROL
Written 16/5/2011 21:59:33

ayu-chan did an impersonation of Sabu-chan for us, though she claimed that she was embarrassed (laugh)
“It’s sad that I’m doing this Sabu-chan impersonation just for everyone’s memories”, she said.
She impersonated him many many times.
She was so cute （≧v≦）
With smiles all around, the atmosphere was really high ↑↑

—–

Author: Hinata
Written 18/5/2011 01:27:13

I went for the live on 15 May!

I queued up for the goods before the booths opened. The wall next to me had an opening before joining to another wall, and I could peek down at the stairs below.
Suddenly, as I was looking down, I saw Armageddon standing there without any expression, then when he turned to look in my direction, he got a shock! (laugh)
He probably came out to have a smoke and look at the queues.
Because he went back in shortly after, very few people saw him, and as it was my first time seeing him in person, I felt really impressed ☆

When the show first started, I felt a little lost and unsure of what to expect, but I soon got used to it, and felt that this was a really touching live.
The orchestra’s performance and ayu’s voice were all really powerful!
Because I brought some feelings with me when I went for this live, I cried from the start to the finish

There were complicated feelings and disappointment about how this live wasn’t a real show, but I feel that this is still a good live which resonates in my heart.

—–

Author: ken3
Written 18/5/2011 02:06:24

I took part in the Yokohama Arena show on the 15th.
Though this tour was changed to this particular show in a hurry, I personally have always watched to watch a fully unplugged and orchestral show.
ayu-chan really needed guts to want to create a show for us to listen to this way.

In fact, it was a really awesome show!
The arrangements of the songs were also different from usual, and that was really cool!
Why is it that a show that was changed in such a hurry could be this good?! I am now newly impressed by ayu-chan’s awesomeness.

I feel that this show is precious, because it shows us the new direction in which ayu-chan wishes to move in.

For those who will participate in future show, please look forward to it.
ayu-chan will bowl you over!!

—–

Author: CHIROL
Written 18/5/2011 09:02:26

ayu-chan seems to like impersonating Sabu-chan recently!
She was really having fun with it ♪
She did it 3-4 times during the show,
as well as on twitter too （＾皿＾）v
So cute– ♪♪

Setlist for 15 May:

1. forgiveness
(Mini MC: Key, Love, YOU)
2. blossom
3. BLUE BIRD
4. monochrome
5. fairyland
6. A Song for XX
7. M
8. NEVER EVER
9. walking proud
10. part of Me
11. Moments
12. vogue
13. Far away
14. SEASONS
15. Bold & Delicious
16. Mirrorcle World
17. UNITE!
18. evolution
19. Born To Be…

-Encore-
20. A Song is born

Credit: truehappiness @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: Ichigo-tan @ Japanese BBS
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[Fanaccount] 18.05.2011 Yokohama Day 1: 14.05.2011

Fan reports of AT2011 at Yokohama, Days 1 and 2, from the TeamAyu forum at Spoilers BBS

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 10:08:05

Today and tomorrow will be the shows at Yokohama, and there seems to already be 300 people in line for the goods booths.

More under the cut!

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 10:51:38



Uploaded with ImageShack.us

By the way, its sunny in Yokohama today

With

temperatures close to 25degC, this seems like a sign for a hot day for Day 1 at Yokohama Arena

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 21:59:34

Something amazing is happening at Yokohama Arena. The line of people waiting for goods has reached halfway around the arena.

By the way, a queue of about 10 people had already been formed at 5:30am this morning.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 13:41:38

To those who plan to buy the hotel keyholder which has the venue date printed on it at the goods booths!

This particular item is very very popular because it is only limited to be sold on the day itself. Therefore, there have been people queueing up for it since 4am, and if you arrive any later than 8am, it will be sold out before it reaches your turn in the queue.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 22:00:24

Though the exact timings are unknown, Day 1 in Yokohama has ended successfully.

By the way, it seems that ayu changed into the tour shirt at the very end and threw out a wristband as well

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 21:58:50

Today’s show began 30 minutes behind schedule. It started at 19:00 and ended at 21:30.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 22:11:41

As mentioned above ↑, ayu came out wearing the white tour T-shirt, along with white pants and white boots.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 14/5/2011 22:26:32

It seems like AAA’s Urata Naoya also turned up for Day 1 in Yokohama Arena.

By the way, he had just given a live at Yamaguchi Prefecture, so that probably means he rushed to Yokohama after that?

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 15/5/2011 16:32:24

Alright, today’s Day 2 in Yokohama Arena!

The doors seem to have opened 10 minutes behind schedule, at 15:10.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 15/5/2011 16:37:24

With regards to the goods and the super-popular keyholder, it seems like all the people who entered the queue after 6am today were not able to buy them.

This is really a problem~ (sweatdrop)

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 15/5/2011 20:49:42

Today’s Day 2 in Yokohama Arena started 20 minutes behind schedule, at 16:20, and ended at 18:50.

For today’s MC, ayu-chan sang ♪Key♪, ♪LOVE♪ and ♪YOU♪.

During ♪Key♪, she seemed to have forgotten her lyrics


Credit: truehappiness @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: Ichigo-tan @ Japanese BBS
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[Trans] 15.05.2011 - 17.05.2011 Ayu’s Tweets Update!

Just go to Misa-chan's page for the full translations

15th May 2011 - 17th May 2011

Translation: Misa-chan @ AHS
Original source: Ayu’s Twitter
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[Fanaccount] 18.05.2011 Hiroshima Day 2: 08.05.2011

Fan reports of AT2011 at Hiroshima, Days 1 and 2, from the TeamAyu forum at Spoilers BBS

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 8/5/2011 09:59:08

Good morning

I fell asleep last night without knowing it, so no more spoilers were updated. But today, I will continue to provide everyone with spoilers for Day 2, so please be nice to me

So, the first spoiler for today will be the silver tape ribbons and some photos of ayu-chan during yesterday’s show.




More under the cut!

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 8/5/2011 14:42:25

http://music.geocities.jp/teamayu19781002/hiroshima.html

Some more images of ayu-chan from yesterday.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 8/5/2011 16:08:15

Here’s a spoiler following the setlist for Day 1, with a brief description of each song and ayu-chan.

1. forgiveness

This song started out as a cappella, then the 23-man orchestra joined in to give an acoustic feel. Everyone was listening attentively.

2. blossom

↑ As noted previously, there was no MC. Instead, ayu shouted “It’s the first day. Hiroshima, let’s get high” After this greeting, blossom came on in a rearranged bossa nova style, and it was performed with the dancers.

3. BLUE BIRD
4. monochrome
5. fairyland

These 3 songs were not performed in full, just short versions.

6. A song for XX

This song was arranged in an acoustic orchestra style. Just the usual performance, but lots of cheers from the audience accompanied her singing.

7. M

This song was arranged in a jazz style. During the last chorus when she went up an octave, her high voice came out beautifully.

8. NEVER EVER

This song was originally in a very high key, but she performed it crystal clear, just like in the studio version.

9. walking proud

The live this time incorporated arrangements from ♪My Story Classical♪ too. By the way, this song filled everyone with so much emotion, and there were many who cried.

10. part of Me

This song is performed for the second time, after its debut during the 2007 Asia Tour. The audience cheered loudly upon hearing the intro. Many people felt that she performed it better than the orginal studio version.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 8/5/2011 20:32:38

Sorry~~~ My updates are coming a little late

So, before continuing with spoilers from yesterday, let me give some updates about today first.

Day 2 in Hiroshima today lasted from 16:25 to 18:50.

There were also some changes to the setlist. According to ayu’s wishes, after the first song ♪forgiveness♪, TO BE and YOU were performed by Peco-san, Princess and ayu.

And then, ayu-chan performed poker face alone.

Today’s setlist:

1. forgiveness
TO BE (A cappella)
YOU (A cappella)
poker face (A cappella)
2. blossom
3. BLUE BIRD
4. monochrome
5. fairyland
6. A Song for XX
7. M
8. NEVER EVER
9. walking proud
10. part of Me
11. Moments
12. vogue
13. Far away
14. SEASONS
15. Bold & Delicious
16. Mirrorcle Ｗorld
17. UNITE!
18. evolution
19. Born To Be…

-Encore-

20. A Song is born

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 11/5/2011 20:40:40

http://music.geocities.jp/teamayu19781002/hiroshima.html

2 more photos from the live concert.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 11/5/2011 21:38:08

I’m late in updating again, but here’s more spoilers from the setlist.

11. Moments

This song was also done in the ♪My Story Classical♪ arrangement. ayu-chan’s falsetto was beautiful in this song.

12. vogue
13. Far away
14. SEASONS

The long-awaited trilogy. Unless one was an ayu fan since long ago, one would never have thought to ever be able to hear these 3 performed live together like this.

15. Bold&Delicious

This song involved the participation of the fans. Those sitting in the North, South, East and West were each made to sing a line of

“ya ya ya ya
ga ga ga ga
da da da da
wo wo wo wo”

By the way, the section before this was mainly ballads, so when this song came on, everyone became energetic immediately.

16 Mirrorcle World

This song received lots of cheers during its intro as well. By the way, I loved how this rock song came together with ayu’s clear voice now, and her voice was just so cool.

17. UNITE
18. evolution
19. Born To Be

These 3 songs brought everyone together and spirits were all high. During ♪Born To Be♪, ayu-chan was crying as she came down the runway towards us. After this song, band members and dancers were introduced, and the curtains fell.

20. a song is born

When the curtains rose again and she began singing, she was still crying. At the end of the song, everyone came together to sing the ♪Lalala…Lalala…♪ part in one voice.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 11/5/2011 21:27:00

To add on to Day 2, for the summer songs medley blossom, BLUE BIRD, monochrome and fairyland, they were all sang in a mellow ballad style, and only fairyland was sung in full.

Also, the dress she wore during the first song ♪forgiveness♪ became a short skirt during the summer medley, and stayed this way till the end of the show.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 11/5/2011 21:37:09

In response to previous reports stating that there were no MCs and no costume changes, many people asked “So does that mean ayu-chan remained on stage the whole time?”

That’s not the case. After the summer medley, Yo-chan had a guitar solo, and after ♪NEVER EVER♪ the 3 performers did their usual clown showtime.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 11/5/2011 23:14:02

This post was written based on reports by other fans who went for the shows, as well as my own feelings after the show.

This time, the Love Hotel Tour was suddenly switched to the「POWER of MUSIC」 theme.

Reading through reports, most people claimed to be shocked at this change.

Either way, many people loved ayu-chan’s really extravagant shows, and this live was thought to be unable to live up to that.

However, my thinking has changed.

Whatever its pros and cons, I feel that we will never get to see such a live like this anymore.

As the tour progresses, the setlist will change, and other things will change as well. The show will continue to evolve to become a really awesome live someday, right?

All this while, ayu-chan’s lives have been characterized by extravagance, but for those people, including myself, who love ayu-chan’s voice, I feel that this is a show where we can truly enjoy her singing.

—–

Author: Ichigo-tan
Written 12/5/2011 17:21:57

Up until now, there have been lots of criticisms about ayu’s lives.

How extravagant they are, how they are too focused on choreography, how her voice condition varies, or how she lip-syncs some songs.

This show not only proves that ayu-chan by herself is able to “charm”, it also shows that she wants us to “listen”.

I expect that ayu-chan herself sees the pros and cons of doing such a simple live.

She would have expected fans to be shocked, and ask questions like “Why is there no MC?” or “Why are there no costume changes?”

Actually, I myself was shocked at first too.

However, ayu has enforced my belief that she wishes to “give encouragement through song”.

It was not just a decision to change some parts of the already-planned Love Hotel Tour, but to start from scratch again, using nothing but song.

So it wasn’t just about compromising on some parts, but to follow through with her own ideas. And here, we can see the power that is “Hamasaki Ayumi”.

From the very start, when the tour hasn’t yet begun, ayu-chan was already heartbroken knowing the plight of the affected regions and victims. So I think that it was really impossible for her to really have fun during the MC talk, the way she usually does.

By the way, for those who took part in these 2 lives in Hiroshima, especially those who went for Day 1, were truly shocked at this live which they could never have imagined, that they could do nothing but be beaten down by the surprise attack.

Thus, there will surely be many who are wondering “What should I do?” because they have already bought tickets to more shows.

There will surely be more people, those who have not yet taken part, who are also in shock, and are unsure as to what to think about the whole thing. But as I’ve written in a previous post ↑, I believe that there will never be a second live where you can get to really sit down and listen to her like this again.

This may be the only chance we’ll ever get.

With that, I feel that this live is really very awesome and real, and when I think back to it in the future, I may even feel that “That was a superb live!”

I myself will be taking part in the shows at Osaka Jou Hall on the 28, 29 May again, and as I’ve said above ↑, what I initially loved about ayu-chan is her voice, and I want to carefully “listen to Hamasaki Ayumi”.

Sorry for this long post.

Credit: truehappiness @ AHS
Translation: misachanjpop @ wordpress
Original source: Ichigo-tan @ Japanese BBS
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