"And What Did You Do Over The Summer?" Part 1

Greetings, fellow readers!  It's been a good while, hasn't it?  I really need better titles for my posts.  .__.  And the fact that they're becoming so far and few is becoming a problem.  Anyhoo, let's get to some topics! 

Living the child's dream
Two words: DISNEY WORLD.  That is the main highlight of my summer, and I loved every minute of it.  My family and I spent a wonderful week visiting the Orlando area.  I in particular visited Epcot (twice), Magic Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios.  Though the weather was unruly and the lines were super long at every park I went to I didn't let it thwart me.  I was determined to explore every inch of each of the parks.  Unfortunately, you'd probably need a day and a half to get through everything.  Epcot was the main place I had in mind due to walking through all the 'countries'.  And of course I went ham in the Japan part of the park.  While in Magic Kingdom my main goal was to at least see Mickey Mouse in the flesh.  That almost didn't happen as it stormed pretty bad while we were there.  I kind of felt bad for making a sour face when it was looking like I might have to leave on account of a little rain (it was actually coming down in buckets), but some of our family stuck it out and waited for it to let up a little...and I got to see my favorite Disney character in the flesh.  It was so exciting!  \(^__^)/  Though it's quite an expensive place, it was nice to see families having a good time.  I hope to one day visit again so I can see the things I missed...and to buy this again:

 

Lucky #7 for TVXQ; Magical #3 for KAT-TUN
About this time of year seven years ago, I became a fan of uber popular Kpop group, TVXQ.  It was thanks to them that I was able to expand from anime and Jpop and get into Kpop.  Though fangirling them as a complete group was short-lived (as they broke up two years later) I still to this day continue to be generally OT5 (a supporter of all five).  Hopefully as this is the seventh year I've been their fan, something good will happen...  I feel it's heading that direction as the members are beginning to talk about each other in a discreet way.  Also, about three years ago I got back into the Jpop scene thanks to KAT-TUN.  And even though at that time they didn't have Jin, I was (and still am) very much supportive of 6nin.  Since three is considered a magical number, I also hope for good things for them too.  And so, I shall end by saying once again Happy 7th and Happy 3rd Anniversary to my two bias groups in Kpop and Jpop.  It's a shame I didn't get to see them perform when they were complete groups, but I shall try my hardest to continue to fangirl over both groups as if nothing has ever happened to them.  ^^

 

 As one of my delusions of grandeur there was a time when KAT-TUN had hosted a fairly long-running television show called 'Cartoon KAT-TUN'.  To this day, I keep wondering how awesomely epic it would have been to see TVXQ as guests on their show.  Can you imagine the terrible gags both Junnosuke and Junsu would do?  And how everyone else would react?  Or each group trying to sing the other's song?  Or just the topics they might talk about?  It really would've been a sight to behold.  ;A;  I know that some did meet each other on music shows, and that was good too, so I guess I'll just have to suffice with that. 

Anyhoo, until next time~!  (^__^)/



November Nonsense

Greetings, fellow readers!  It's almost turkey day in the U.S.  Who is ready to stuff their face?  XD  But let's not forget the main reason for Thanksgiving--giving thanks for the things we have.  Though I'd be extremely greatful if I got to see my bias in person.  ^^;;  From the last part of October to now there have been quite a few suprising stories in fandom.  Let's get to it! 

Celebrities on Twitter
After his departure from KAT-TUN back in late October that left fans devistated, Koki has come back via Twitter~!  There was a fake account before his, so when his was actually found there was a little speculation.  But since two of his brothers had followed that account, fans did the same.  Koki is the second KAT-TUN member to make an account after Jin (who doesn't use his anymore) and it's enjoyable to read his tweets--even though they're in Japanese.  :P  He's quite the chatterbox, and I like that.  ^^    Also to join Twitter is SNSD member (and one of my biases from the group) Seohyun!  She may not tweet often, but I'm glad that she's entered the world of Twitter.  I also came across Taiwanese singer and actor Ken Chu as well as Barbie Hsu and Vic Zhou.  Slowly but surely I'm finding the F4.  I follow a whole bunch of Kpop, Jpop, and Cpop stars that it's crazy.  >__<  But there are a few that I'd really enjoy seeing on Twitter, and I'm pretty sure that you can make a few guesses as to who they might be.  :P  But aside from Twitter, you have quite a few of them on other social networks--Instagram being a big one followed by Chinese site Weibo.  Of course there is now LINE and a few still use Cyworld.  So alot of stars are feeling out to the world through alot of different places.  It's really nice to see them talk about things that the general public would (to some degree), take a whole bunch of pictures of themselves or the food they're eating or their pet or their house...etc.  And it always brightens a fan's mood when they do mini fan-talks.  I have yet to get a response from anyone though.  ;A;  But one thing (though it's perfectly normal) is seeing them when they're sad or mad.  Most of the time it's due to someone hacking their accounts and whatnot.  Of course that can be avoided with stronger passwords (like a set of cryptic numbers and letters).  But then there are events that make them upset and they take to Twitter like the rest of us.  ^^;;  A while back, Jaejoong had such an issue where someone made him upset and he made it known through Twitter.  I've not seen any of my favorite celebrities get upset (probably never will on camera), but it made me wonder how scary they'd look if they got really mad.  Some of them it's hard to imagine getting really mad: Yunho and Junnosuke are just two that come to mind almost immediately. 

Dongho calls it quits
U-KISS's maknae decided to call it quits from idol life it seems.  And while it's sad to see him go, I can understand his reason for doing so.  He said it was not good for his health, and if you think about all the schedules, lack of sleep, and not enough time to eat that celebrities--especially of the Kpop variety--go through you might not even want to keep going either.  The ones that do are troopers.  ^^  But Dongho also had a health issue with his lungs, so I think he made a good decision.  Best of luck to you, Dongho.  Though this is a second blow to KissMe's as they've lost Alexander and Kibum previously, I don't think that will stop them from loving all the members no matter what they're doing. 

It's that time of year again...
Yes...awards shows.  =____=  These tend to be a reason for fanwars to start.  And I am certain that a good amount of cheating goes on in them as well--at least in the past there may have.  These things also seem to bring out the ugliest parts of fans.  Of the latest there was the YTMAs (Youtube Music Awards).  I was really glad that SNSD's 'I Got A Boy' won the Video of the Year Award.  But quite a few non-Kpop fans were not too thrilled with that.  Then there was the recent EMAs (European Music Awards).  Now, I don't know how EXO managed to make it on there, but they did.  I usually don't participate in these things, but I did try to help them to win whatever they were nominated for.  Unfortunately, they were pitted against fans of One Direction and Justin Bieber.  And it didn't help that some fans of other Kpop fans also didn't want them to win.  It was apparent on my Twitter list.  And when EXO didn't win, they jumped for joy...and I found that to be totally unecessary.  >__>  But EXO, One Direction, and Justin Bieber all lost to a Chinese singer.  And that is fine by me.  The award show I tend to keep from voting in is the MAMAs (Mnet Asian Music Awards).  I've been doing so since HoMin was nominated...that year was crazy.  .___. 

Ailee/Allkpop scandal
*sigh*  In what might be the biggest scandal of the year (aside from the pain I felt towards the whole 'ChangToria' thing) is the whole fiasco between Kpop star Ailee and Kpop gossip news site Allkpop.  I may not know the whole issue, but from what I'm gathering the thing started when Allkpop posted an article about nude photos of Ailee being posted.  That led to serious backlash for the site as fans found it extremely improper of Allkpop to do.  The site had already ruffled many fans' feathers numerous times before, but this might just be the icing on the cake.  I say that because it's caught the attention of actual Korean media who didn't know about the site's existance until last week.  What makes this issue so tough is that the apparent leaker of Ailee's photos was an ex-boyfriend of hers and the photos were taken before she became a star and while she was living in the U.S.  And that ex-boyfriend works at Allkpop so...yeah.  My thought on the issue (and while some may totally disagree with me) is that this is a lesson learned on Ailee's part.  One should be careful of what they do or say in the time before they become someone in a position of fame because someone is bound to dig it up.  I was suprised that she admitted that those were photos of her to begin with because most would just deny it.  And while it was pretty bad of Allkpop to post those, I'll still continue to follow them on Twitter.  Sure, they may have said some awful things about Kpop stars before Kpop became global, but I doubt they're the only site out there that trolls like that.  I had been visiting a site called POPSEOUL! in my early fangirl days that also was a bit of a troll.  But I can't help wondering if this whole mess would've been different if the leaked nudes were of a male idol instead...  Well, all I can say is that I hope things will get cleared up soon. 

Aside from all that there were the pictures that Kpop collaboration duo Troublemaker had released that were a bit too sexy and a clip of a movie called 'Rough Play' (starring Lee Joon) that was nothing but sex.  :P  I wonder how he felt filming it?  Well, that is all for now.  Until next time!    

Howdy Do~! ^o^

Greetings~!  As usual, it's been a while since I've posted something on here.  I've been slacking.  .__.  I'm also having trouble figuring out titles for my posts.  In any case, here are some things on my mind as of late. 

"It's time to duel!" 
That's right!  I've been sort of watching the anime 'Yu-Gi Oh!' as of late--well, my sister has.  So far we're on the fifth season of the first series (the one that used to come on television).  I've been in-and-out watching, but I've gotten the gist of most of it.  I must say that the fifth season is really interesting because Atem (the spirit in the Millenium puzzle) finds out more about himself.  And my sister and I must say that the pharoh is pretty good looking (as well as everyone else with a past self). 

"Junnosuke be 'FLASHING' y'all~"
Some time late last week, my top Jpop bias released his solo music video titled 'FLASH'.  Let me tell you... I. LOVED. IT.  It was really good!  He looked really good!  The dancing did remind me alot of an artist named Daichi Miura too.  Alot of the comments were positive for him--most stating that they'd start looking more into him from now on.  It's kind of a shame they haven't from the start.  Here is the music video if you're interested. 

 

"The U.S.A. is really attractive these days..."

Last week, B.A.P. was here in the U.S.A. for a while to do some touring.  I believe it was their first time here, and they enjoyed it very much.  Eventually it was time for them to leave, but I'm sure that the U.S. Babyz will see them again very soon.  Just yesterday, Infinite landed in the U.S. for the first time for a music video shoot.  And even earlier it was said that Namie Amuro and Koda Kumi were also filming for music videos in L.A.  And, of course let's not forget Crystal Kay who has been in New York for a good while already.  And then there was KAT-TUN that was also in New York back in March.  So many Asian artists coming, and I still can't see them!  OTL

 

"Nature Boy's Indian Summer by the Ocean"

Korean singer/actor Jang Geun Suk recently released a Japanese music video called 'Nature Boy/Indian Summer'.  While I found it to be alright, others weren't so interested in it.  It's fine, but there really wasn't any reason to say that Jaejoong shouldn't have retweeted that video.  Some fans are really harsh critics.  .__.  Here is the video in question:

 

 

Also, HoMin--er, TVXQ--excuse me, Tohoshinki released a short music video of their song, 'Ocean'.  Some commented that is reminded them of either One Direction or Jang Geun Suk's 'Nature Boy' song.  So, I don't know if that's supposed to be a bad thing or a good thing.  I think Yunho and Changmin are ready for summer is all.  Shall we join them in some "Ooga Jaka Ola"?  XD

 



 

What a Whirl of News!

Greetings, fellow readers and Happy Good Friday (for those who celebrate it).  I don't really have much to talk about today.  Well, nevermind...I do.  XD 

Congratulations to KAT-TUN's Nakamaru and HeySayJUMP's Inoo for graduating!
At the same time, both Yuichi Nakamaru and Kei Inoo graduated from their universities!  I congratulate both of them for continuing their studies as well as being the awesome performers that they are.  Not many celebrities can do that.  ^^  Nakamaru majored in Human Sciences and Inoo in Architecture.  Those sound like really good degrees.  *__* 

Junnosuke's arrival in Thailand~!
Recently, Junnosuke Taugchi of KAT-TUN as well as a few other artists came to Thailand for an event called J Series.  This video really goes to show that Thai fans love Junnosuke.  :D  There are many more fancams of him entering/leaving Thailand's Suvamabhumi airport as well as the event that he was there for.  As a sidenote...I really wish I could've been there.  Some fans even started singing his solo, 'Finale'.  T___T

Daichi Miura's 8th Anniversary
March 30th marks the 8th anniversary of Daichi Miura's solo career.  Not many people know of him (which is sad).  He's not only a great singer, but a superb dancer.  He even makes up his own choreography sometimes.  Maybe a few of you may know of him when he performed a song with Korean singer BoA.  Personally, my favorite song from him is 'Delete My Memories'.  A fan of his that I follow on Twitter has put together a small project that I took part in.  I really think it was nice of her to do so.  If you want to check it out, click here.  I do hope that many of you will be interested in him enough to check out some of his music.  I'm sure you won't be disappointed~!

Welcome to Twitter, L.Joe and Chunji
It seems that slowly, but surely the members of Teen Top are getting their own Twitter accounts.  It's always fun to follow celebrities.  ^o^  If you have a Twitter and like Teen Top, you should follow them.  Now if only Changmin, Yunho, Yoochun (again), and all of KAT-TUN would get one, I'd be happy...despite all of the chaos that might ensue.

Onew dating and electronic cigarettes?
Well, yet another dating rumor has arisen.  This time it's SHINee's Onew and After School's Jungah.  All I can say about this is...I'm sorry to Shawols (mainly Onew fans) as well as fans of After School.  :/  This one doesn't hurt me as bad as Changmin's did.  *still shuddering from that*  But what does concern me is that Onew is also rumored to be smoking electronic cigarettes.  It's quite disappointing like the whole marijuana bust involving DMTN's Daniel.  Though I think electronic isn't as bad as the real thing, it's still a cigarette, so here's to hoping that Onew will kick the habit altogether one day.  It's really weird though because Onew seemed to be the last person in SHINee I'd see smoking.

No war, please
It seems that North Korea and South Korea are once again butting heads, and the rest of the world is being quite concerned with the actions of North Korea.  I really do hope that war doesn't break out.  Not only would it affect the Korean Penninsula, but also areas nearby: China, Russia, Japan, maybe Taiwan, and some U.S. territories (mainly Guam and Hawaii).  Of course, I don't want my favorite artists to get caught up in all of that but I don't want the civilians to get hurt either--even the North Korean citizens.  Hopefully it will never escalate to that. 

New Year's Resolutions

Like so many people around the world, I think a new year means a chance to change.  Of course alot of the resolutions that we all tend to make never really come to light, but hey...why not still give it a shot?  This year, not only do I want to better myself as a person or hope to get a job to get my foot into the working world--and to get money to see my favorite foriegn artists--but I also plan to truly start learning Japanese and Korean beyond the basic phrases that I know.  As of now, I do not know how the grammar structure of either language is set up nor do I know enough of their vocabulary.  I can recognize Korean symbols (hangul), but I'm having trouble pronouncing them.  In turn I can pronounce Japanese a bit better, but I cannot read the symbols (hirigana, katakana, kanji) save for a slight few.  I do have a few books that may help, but it's just a matter of not being lazy and setting up time each day to study until I can acutally get into a classroom setting that teaches these two languages.  It'd probably be good if I did a refresher for Spanish as well because I've forgotten a good chunk of it.  I'm also thinking about learning Chinese, but that might have to come a bit later.  ^^ 

Aside from learning languages my sister, a friend, and I will be attempting to do dance covers to Kpop and Jpop.  We've already decided on three so far.  The first one is SNSD's "I Got a Boy".  Next, my sister and I will attempt SISTAR's "Ma Boy".  And the last will be Perfume's "Spice".  If you've seen the videos for any of these, you'll see that they have at least some level of difficulty, and if you're not a dancer--like me--it'll be way beyond your level.  I can't even do a body wave correctly without it looking like I'm having an uncontrollable spasm attack.  But I'm still working on it.

Well, wish me luck!  Peace out.       

Merry Christmas...Mr. Lawrence~! ^o^

credit: Yuunie via Youtube

Not really Christmas-like...but the title of this song is:  "Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence".

Ah~  Christmas is really in the air!  And to commemorate that, I've decided to put together a Christmas playlist.  Of course, it's not your average one...  This one is comprised of Jpop and Kpop songs.  Onward to the list!  Disclaimer: the videos and pics in this post do not belong to me.  Credit goes to their respective owners!

First...the whole album from TVXQ called 'The Christmas Gift from TVXQ"

 

It's such a nice album.  Most of the songs are renditions of original Christmas classics like "Silent Night" or "Santa Claus is Coming to Town".  And their voices makes is even better.  If you want to hear some songs, click on the respective link:

- Jesus, Joy of Man's Desiring/Magic Castle
- The First Noel
- Santa Clause is Coming to Town
- Silent Night
- O Holy Night/HUG **

**HUG is not part of the album, but the video I could find had it on there as it is their debut performance**

That is just a few--probably majority--of the songs on the album..  But their voices would be so lovely to hear on Christamas...at least to me.  ^^  I'd have to say my favorite songs from here would be "The First Noel", "Silent Night", and "O Holy Night". 

Up next...

Fangirling: Where I Stand Right Now

 

Credit: keepcalmand.tumblr.com

 

Let's face it, over a period of time some fans tend to change their whole perspective on any situation in their fandom.  I believe this has also happened to me.  The question is if it's for the better...or the worst?  .___.  So, I've decided to post yet again on where I stand in fandom--at least I think I've posted about this before. 

To put it simply it's come to a point where I've been considering actually leaving fandom.  It doesn't mean I'll stop supporting the groups, but just not being a part of communities were many fans congegate.  Some of the things some fans say or do when it comes to either other groups/soloists or even our own members seems to aggrivate me alot lately.  Some instances include bashing other artists that I also like.  :/  It'll be more like where I was when I began getting into many of the groups I know today.  And I find it the only possible solution to keep myself from having this sense of bitterness towards any of the members (of TVXQ).  The downside is that I'll probably miss out on some amazing stuff, and I'll probably miss the fans that I've befriended.  However, things are becoming more and more upsetting to me as the days go on.

How I Became A 'Multi-fan'

I bet there are a few of you wondering how I got into Asian music in the first place (and why I love it so much)?  Well, I suppose I'll tell you!  Hey...it's not another rant post.  XD  So let's begin! 

Thinking about it, my lovbe for Asian music started when I was a younger child.  I'd have to say my first contact was with a Japanese group called DREAMS COME TRUE when they sang 'Eternity' for the animated movie, 'The Swan Princess'.  The song was in English, but I count it.  ^^  There is a Japanese version called 'The Signs of Love' as well which sounds just a good.  It still didn't quite get us into Japanese music though.  Then, we moved to Japan and there was an anime series we would watch called 'Akazukin Cha-Cha'.  The opening was catchy, so my sister and I would attempt to sing to it.  This song is called 'Kimi Iro Omoi' and we later found out that it was a cover done by SMAP.  It was about 1996 when we did this.  So, now we were attempting to sing in Japanese.  Over the course of time we watched a few anime that came to the U.S., so we did hear a few other anime songs--VERY few.  But with the help of a website (that no longer works) we were able to open ourselves to other singers.  'Yubiwa' would have to be my very first Maaya Sakamoto song...and now she's my ultimate favorite Japanese songstress.  'First Love' and 'Hikari' helped to learn about Utada Hikaru.  Actually, it was 'Simple & Clean' that got us into Utada because Kingdom Hearts was coming out.  We thought it was just a regular American singing it at first, but we came to find out she is Japanese-American.  This was around 2002.  At the same time, we heard about GACKT with his song 'Seki Ray'.  It was also on the website that is no longer around.  Over time, we had started hearing more and more Jpop through anime and whatnot.  Recently, I came back into Jpop (more like fangirling a group) with the aid of my Jpop bias group, KAT-TUN--first with 'Rescue' and then with 'Run for You'. 

Another Rant Post

Gosh!  It's been SO LONG since I've posted here in my blog.  So much has gone on too!  But I think I'll just touch on maybe three subjects that have been weighing on me...which may become rants.  Yay!  Another rant post!  >__>  I better post a fun one soon or I may bore many of you.  Anyway, our first topic is:

1. "Oppa, Gangnam Style"~!
Yes, 'Gangnam Style' has become a very big hit here in the U.S.  So much so that many celebs love it, he's got a contract under the same company as Beiber, and he's even been invited on various shows.  Heck, his song even plays on the radio--and not just in the Northeast or the West, but in the South too.  I'm really happy that PSY is doing so well in the U.S.  Though it is a little bittersweet since other Jpop/Kpop artists have tried to break into the market and failed.  But I do want PSY to succeed becuase it would then open a way for other Asian artists to become more known in the U.S. (and concerts could finally be held in my area).  I think the reason because his song became so huge is because it doesn't give off that 'westernized' feel that other artists did when coming over here.  Also, the U.S. seems to like funny things, so he fits the bill to some degree.  I'd have to say that our population is quite picky with songs too.  :/  I'm not quite sure why some people don't really like it because honestly, the beat sounds like it could be used in any song found here.  And it's just as wacky as some of the other MVs found around.  But I think that people aren't used to hearing Korean. 

2. "Changmin, your hair!"
As of yesterday, pictures came out of Changmin and Yunho with a different hairdo.  Yunho's looked nice, but Changmin's has stirred some complaints within the fandom.  It's a short, mushroom-like cut that is dyed a light brown.  Granted, it's probably not one of the styles I like, I'm not going to complain about it either.  I'll just have to get used to seeing him with short hair again.  I think another reason why I'm okay with it might be because Junnosuke is also sporting a hairstyle like that.  It's just that his bangs are a little longer and it's two-tone colored (blonde on top and dark brown/black underneath).  To me, that just means another 'connection' between my Kpop and Jpop biases!  ^o^

3. "_____ doesn't sound that great compared to ______"
"I'm not going to that concert because _______ isn't gonna be there", "Only _______ is going to get my money", "__________'s songs aren't all that great as compared to ________".  I've actually heard (more like read) these things on Twitter.  Most of the time it's the Cassie part of my list that tends to say this about other groups, but I've also seen it out of other fandoms I follow.  Even on Tumblr's 'confession' accounts (be it Jpop, Kpop, etc.) there can be harsh criticism coming from some fans.  It's a little sad because I tend to be a fan of one group and the other group being criticized.  Case and point: TVXQ and KAT-TUN.  One time I was spamming about KAT-TUN, and then someone told me that not alot of their songs were that great and that one of the reasons they didn't listen to them much was that they didn't compare to TVXQ's voices.  Another time someone told me that I shouldn't be a fan of Changmin because I liked Junnosuke.  One person even said that Maaya Sakamoto's songs weren't all that great.  .___.  I know it's personal preference, but still....  I suppose what I'm trying to get at is try not to be an 'elitist' and criticize the mess out of another group or individual members--especially if you don't delve into their music so often.  :/  Ya know what I mean? 

Well....here's an update post.  Until next time~!  Peace out. 

Oh, The Pains Of Being A 'Multi-Fan'

It's funny how I hear some fans say that they just don't understand how one person can be a fan of so many groups.*silently raises hand* Well...I'm one. (.__.)/  If you didn't know already, I'm a fan of many, many, MANY groups.  Well, I guess 'fan' wouldn't be the very best word, but there are many groups that I like.  I may not listen to all of them on a daily basis and I tend to keep up with my biased groups more *coughTVXQandKAT-TUNcough* but if you want to talk to me about another group, I'll try my best to converse with you about them.  However, there seems to be a tiny problem that I'm beginnig to notice...

Jpop and Kpop fans don't really get along well with each other...

And this frustrates me.  .___.  How am I supposed to talk to both general fandoms?  You see, I have a tendency to talk about the other genre to each fandom.  I know it's probably not very smart of me, but I just want to 'promote' the genre to the opposite fandom.  For example, I'll use TVXQ and KAT-TUN--more specifically, my biases from both groups.  I really do like them, and I'll talk about them to anyone and everyone.  XD  BUT!!!  If I happen to say that Changmin and Junnosuke look alike--er--similar at some glances...I'll get told that they don't.  I've also noticed that when I make my own Tumblr posts, the ones that get the most responses tend to be the individual ones rather than the ones I do that have both of them in there (if that makes sense).  I have to apologize, but I seem to see it more from other Junnosuke fans.  :x  But either side will also sometimes say bad things about the other, and that doesn't sit well with me as they are my top oppa and ichiban.  Are they not worthy to be complimented for looking alike even in the slightest?  Is it insulting or something?  I don't think it's a bad thing as they're very attractive.  I could add to it that they both look like Taiwanese singer/actor, Jerry Yan.  :o  And of course their personalities are very different.  I've grown to love each of their quirks--even though some of the things they may do or say may not be my cup of tea.  Just imagine how it would be if I had said that Donghae of Super Junior and Kame of KAT-TUN looked similar (which they kind of do)?  OTL

Many fandoms of groups that I like tend to bash each other...

I don't really claim to be an elitist fan of any group (maybe more of a 'knowledgeable' fan), but how some are sounding makes them think like they're better than others and that certain fans should 'fall in line' or something.  It's hard to even say that one group's style is similar to another without having a fan tell you off.  I'll admit, I'll say something along the lines of that if TVXQ is mentioned--as I did get upset when a group called Code V sang 'Love in the Ice'--but I don't think it's right to nit-pick so harshly especially if it was just for fun.  I guess that would fall under what I had stated in the above paragraph when it comes to your favorite celebrities looking alike at first glance.    

*sigh*  Fandom is such a scary place sometimes.  Like in my previous entry, I've considered leaving it all.  But then I'd get quite lonely not being able to spazz with all the nice people I've met.  So, I'll just let you all know that: 1) I like both Jpop and Kpop (and some Mandopop) at pretty much an equal level, 2) Changmin and Junnosuke are my top biases, and I really like to point out similarities they have (though it's becoming less and less the more I look at them), and 3) at least try not to diss either genre/group.  It's as simple as that. 

Hm...this seemed to have turned into a rant post...mainly about my biases (when is it not?).  For this I apologize if I sounded rough, but I've had similar thoughts about this ever since I eased back into the Jpop fandom and it sort of peaked when I read an insult about Changmin.  -_-  As a side-note I'd like to say that maybe the reason for the tension has to do with the bad blood between Japan and S. Korea due to their history with each other?  In any case, I should post a more light-hearted entry soon.  Peace out~! 

Being A Fan Is Really Tough...

Seriously!  It would be amazing if we could all get paid for it.  ^^;;  But as of late, news about 'sasaeng fans' is spreading really fast.  If you read my last post on them, they are the type of fan to make a whole fandom look bad.  And since the worst ones happn to be for TVXQ it makes the situation even more complex for thw whole fandom.  Not only do we have to deal with the lawsuit--which I believe has still not been resolved--but the fandom also has deep divisions.  And if you're a multi-fan like me, it gets really difficult when you have drama going on in other groups that you tend to follow.  On top of that, whenever your bias ends up in a controversy--dating someone, for example--things can get really messy really fast.  The example of dating is one that I'm quite guilty of becaue I know I'd get really upset.  But I'd like to talk more about the subject of the 'sasaeng fans'. 

Just a while ago, it was reported that Jaejoong, Yoochun, and Junsu had responded to the issue about the 'abuse' they were giving to the fans.  From how it sounded, they didn't deny it nor did they say it was all fake.  They did say that they've had to put up with this for a long time.  Yoochun just asked that fans give them at least a little bit of privacy.  Junsu made mention that because they're "still fans" he really doesn't know how to respond.  And Jae (bless his heart) actually said that they apologize if they ever hurt a fan.  ;___;  I know they're public figures and usually I'd say things about them if a public figure ever does something wrong, but if I were in their shoes I would've given up singing a long time ago.  After reading that article, I felt so bad.  When the trouble with 'sasaengs' started showing up, it made me think about what kind of fan I was (because I'm sure alot of the fancams in airports and such come from them and I was also enjoying those fancams).  Now I just wish I could be of some help to my favorite celebrities or send them encouraging letters or something.  It may sound really dumb to some, but I think it'd be nice to hear something optimistic.

Another problem with being a fangirl is having to deal with certain fans that only stick to one group, genre, etc. and think it's the best.  I may have that problem a little when it comes to TVXQ since they're my bias group.  ^^;;  But I say that about 'sticking to one group' because I sometimes feel like some just listen to one genre and don’t really care much for the other.  I like both though, and that can be a perdicament. I usually find myself talking about Jpop to Kpop fans and Kpop to Jpop fans. I even try recommending music from the opposite genres to them in hopes they’ll like it too.  However, it seems like they're never interested.  It's especially true when it comes to introducing TVXQ to Jpop fans or KAT-TUN to Kpop fans.  Sometimes I wonder if I bother my Jpop Tumblr/Twitter followers with my reblogging of Kpop and vice versa.  And I really don't like it when there are videos on Youtube trying to say which genre is better because both are really good.  So Jpoppers don't hate on Kpop and Kpoppers don't hate on Jpop.

That reminds me of a post I did in my LiveJournal about how it's really difficult to establish yourself within a fandom that's been around for a while.  With TVXQ it was rather easy for me.  But KAT-TUN on the other had was rather difficult.  I felt (and still feel) like an outcast.  .___.  I see some of the people I follow on Tumblr having a conversation about Junnosuke, I kind of want to join, I send a reply to a post in hopes to get a response, I don't get anything and they keep talking.  ;___;  Maybe it's because I reblog alot of Changmin/TVXQ stuff?  But upon thinking about it...I should just be myself when it comes to being a fan, right?  Support them my own way~!  I can like them just as much and that's all there is to it, right?  I should keep this in mind as I traverse along Tumblr or Twitter (and this goes for all fangroups I'm involved in). 

In the end, fandom is getting to be REALLY complex these days no matter what country your favorite celebrity hails from.  I don't think it was like that back then.  ^^;;  Haha...I'm also too old to be doing this sort of stuff.  I suppose I should wrap this post up by just saying to try to be the best fan you can be....without crossing the line. 

Peace out~!  

And Recovering Butthurt Fan Says...

Oookkkaaayyy~  So the rumor about Jin and Meisa turned out to be true.  OTL  Will I live?  I'm very certain I will.  I am glad that he is doing the right thing (if she truly is pregnant).  It's just really...surreal to say the least.  I'd still support him of course.  If I see his album in a store around here, I'll most likely buy it.  Haha...it was a 'speedy-relationship-made-only-in-my-mind' that Jin and I had, mainly after I got a good look at his AnAn shots.  ^^;;  I'm quite shallow, I know....  m(._.)m  Anywhoo, if any of you were concerned about my mental stability, I'm getting to feel alright about it.  You know, try to wish them some happiness.  It's not like I can do anything except complain how it wasn't me.  XD  However, if it were Changmin or Junnosuke, that would TOTALLY be a different story!  I'd throw a huge fit!  I'm not even going to lie about that.  Then I'd get told to get over it and probably not have much--if any--sympathy from anyone because of the massively huge fit I'd throw. 

To be honest, I'd really like it if a celebrity would go public with their relationship.  But I understand that they're worried that fans will either stop supporting them or threaten their girlfriend/boyfriend.  In my opinion, it's best for me to know early so that (if I did like the celebrity alot) I'd know that they're off my list of dateable men.  Sounds pretty absurd, huh?  Of course I like them for their talents too, but you know...'the heart wants what the heart wants' and all that jazz.  And I feel I could still have a chance, you know.  In fact, I think that is why so many people audition to become celebrities:  so they can be close to their favorites.  I guess I should become a celebrity or at least a staff member of their team.  -_-  And I do remember when the ones we liked were just fans of other celebs too.  I now know how you felt when your favorite actress got married, Changmin.  u_u   

I guess it's safe to say that this week was a really suprising week both in my fangirl and my real life.  From engagements to a marriage to Changmin checking out ladies in bikinis to an ex-girlfriend blackmailing a Kpop star to everyone thinking it was Yoochun to it not being Yoochun to whatever else crazy happened this week.  I really hope that the rest of the year will not be like this.  It really hasn't been so good of a start at all.  Let's keep hoping things will get better~!  Peace!  I apologize once again for this post being full of drabble from a recovering, kind-of-butthurt fan.

Being A Butthurt Fan Really Sucks: I'm Really Tool Old To Be Doing Stuff Like This

I'm going to be butthurt for a moment on this post.  Today, it was said that Akanishi Jin (former member of KAT-TUN, and my 2nd favorite from said group) was to marry a celebrity named Kuroki Meisa.  I've heard her name before.  :o  But that's not all!  She's also said to be pregnant.  This came as quite a shock to me.  Am I upset?  Yeah, I'll say it.  Can I do anything about it?  Other than complaining and the likes, no I cannot.  Besides, I'm wa~ay too far away from any of my favorite celebrities to do anything.  And I can't just go and troll her Twitter or whatever with messages of hate as much as this bugs me.  You see, this comes after something happened in my real life involving someone I liked in the past that had happened recently.  Not to mention that it reminds me of the scandal involving Junnosuke (my 1st favorite from KAT-TUN) being in a relationship with a 'gravure' model.  On top of that, I read that Changmin was taking pics with ladies in bikinis and that just adds on to my fangirl flames.  OTL

I suppose reactions like this from crazed fans makes other people who are casual fans really annoyed.  Most of the time, they'd say to "get over it" or "they can date whoever they want" or stuff like that.  I believe I had said stuff like this before.  ^^;;  I know that there is truth to this, and that they say they're human...but so are fans.  :o  I also know that even if I did manage to date a celebrity and suffer massive bashing for it, I think I might still be able to hold out.  ._.  I guess that sounds a little contradicting since I'm complaining right now.  However, it seems the only way for me to actually meet my goal of seeing any of them is to either become someone famous or work as a staff member for them.  OTL  How did that lady marry her favorite actor?  (I can't remember if she married Tom Cruise or some other famous guy). 

So, I'm pretty sure that if any of the celebrities I talk about on this blog or any famous news places from Asia read my blogs, they may be like "Dang...she's one crazy-@$$ chick!" and maybe try to avoid me if they ever saw me.  But I assure you, I'm still sane and just crazy 60% of the time.  I always tell myself that if I just happen to see them in real life (preferably when they're single) I can get over them when stuff like this happens.  I guess I'm more shocked at how fast this happened and how she's the same age as I am.  :x  But since I've yet to hear anything from either Akanishi or Meisa, I'm now wondering if it is true at all.  *crosses fingers in hopes that it is false*  Okay, I should stop being mean.  ^^;;  I guess I should go back to liking only anime guys (I never was interested in any male celebs like I am now)...but that is like taking a step backwards.  Eh...I'll just stop right here with this post.  I aplolgize if I wasted your time with this drabble.     

Peace out~!

Do You Have To Do A Double Take?

Do you all remember when I posted Seeing Triple?  Well, I'm back with more!  XD  Actually there are many, but I've decided to show ones that I think look similar.  So lets's start with...

Kamnashi Kazuya of KAT-TUN and Lee Donghae of Super Junior.  I know they don't look that much alike, but at first glance and in they way they pose for pictures, they could almost look similar.  It would be especially so if Donghae plucked his eybrows in almost the same way as Kame's~!  >_<  Both are quite popular members of their respected groups.  The cool thing is that they're both the same age and their names are related to the ocean (Kame=turtle, Donghae=East sea).  Can you all see what I'm talking about? 

Up next...

2011's End and 2012's Beginning

I should've done this at the end of December, but look at this...IT'S ALREADY JANUARY!!!! 
Very much has happened in 2011.  It not only ranges from my fan girl life, but also in reality.  From war/revolution to really bad natural disasters to economical issues we're still facing.  It was a really rough year.  Of course the revolutions in the Middle East were a big topic.  Every now and then, I'd hear about them on the news and I'd wonder and hope that the civilians over there that are just minding their own business would be okay.  The death of a few dictators also spread across the news.  The death of the N. Korean leader was the one I paid more attention to because I've become quite attached to S. Korea through it's Kpop.  I'm always wishing for peace between the north and south, but I also know it's got a long way to go.  The 'end of the world' scare was another noteworthy event of 2011.  Some people actually thought it would end.  I was a bit afraid, but we're still here, so God isn't finished with us just yet.  ^_^  One of the big pieces of news from last year that REALLY caught my attention was the triple threat of the major earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear problems in Japan.

It totally shocked me and I was really sad.  :(  I used to live there and it gave me goosebumps just to see the water come on land like it did.  Since it was really late over here when it occurred, I stayed up until about 3am watching everything about it.  I switched between CNN, Fox News, and others.  If I only had NHK at the time I could have gotten the feed straight from Japan since it was based there.  Truthfully, I was worried about the Japanese artists that I was fond of.  Some were hurt, some were reported 'missing' for a while, and some lost belongings.  But I also worried about the citizens, and I had hoped that there wouldn't be too many casualties.  In the wake of the disaster, I had heard that people were suprised at how the Japanese acted and coordinated.  ^_^  But I was also annoyed at how some people had said mean things about them.  If I could, I would still love to go back.  People just don't know how beautiful of a country it is until they see it with their own eyes~!

Aside from that, another really bad thing was the Joplin, MO tornado. 

The part that is brown is the tornado path.  This sucker was an EF5--the highest rating a tornado can have.

I do admit that I really didn't watch all the coverage about this like I did for Japan.  And this even happened in my own country!  But I felt bad because I used to live in the infamous 'Tornado Alley' as well.  Every spring, I worried myself about something like this happening.  So far, I've been blessed, but I do hope that we won't have things like this happen any time soon. 

Showing Love To My Other Favorite Jpop Groups: KAT-TUN

Name: KAT-TUN (the hyphen is important, lol)

Members: (top section, L to R) Akanishi Jin (former member), Nakamaru Yuichi, Ueda Tatsuya, (bottom section, L to R) Tanaka Koki, Taguchi Junnosuke, Kamenashi Kazuya

Fanbase: Hyphen

Fancolor: I dont' think they have a fancolor.  It's more of fans with the member's faces on them.

Well, this is the group that has caught my attention on several occasions.  At first, I just heard about their name, and never really bothered to listen to them or anything.  That is how it usually goes with the groups I follow, lol~!  I was more into anime at the time, and I mainly listened to singers of their openings and endings or to solo singers like GACKT, Miyavi, Maaya Sakamoto, Ayumi Hamasaki, and Utada Hikaru.  There was the occasional boybands that I had one or two songs from though (ex.- Arashi, V6).  Then I eventually switched into Kpop, and that was fronted by my bias group TVXQ.  I didn't hear about KAT-TUN until around March/April of 2009 when they released 'RESCUE'.  I found out about that because that single went up against TVXQ's 'Survivor'.  I found that kind of cool that both titles could coincide with each other.  But I still wasn't very much interested in them.  I had seen other MVs of theirs as well: 'ONE DROP' and 'YOU'.  So what did make me take more interest in them?  Junnosuke.  Yes, one of the members stood out to me.  XD  It was after watching 'Rescue' quite a few times that my sister had told me that Junnosuke reminded her of Changmin (my ultimate bias).  I can see it too!  They may not look totally alike but at first glance and certain angles they can.  So at that point I was like: "Okay.  Pretty nifty this KAT-TUN group is".  However, it wasn't until this year--after hearing the responses of people when 'Run For You' was released-- that I actually started to follow them a little more (i.e.- getting to know who's who, member info, trivia, looking for songs/MVs, etc.).  So now I'm mainly a Cassie-Hyphen fan.  Though the Hyphen part of me is in training.  ^^;;

KAT-TUN was originally made up by six members with the first letter of each of their last name making up the group name: (K)amenashi, (A)kanishi, (T)aguchi, *hyphen*, (T)anaka, (U)eda, (N)akamaru.  They started out as a dance group for a previous Johnny's act (I think it was Kinki Kids).  It was more like a rotational group, but fans loved the members of KAT-TUN so much that they became a permanant unit.  Apparently they set alot of records too!  Having so many consecutive days of performances at the famous Tokyo Dome BEFORE debut is rather impressive.  I was looking up abou tthem on Wikipedia, and it looks like Johnny's Entertainment had them working almost as hard as TVXQ was!  They even had their own television show called 'Cartoon KAT-TUN' which I personally thought was really hilarious!  I saw sides of them that I never really thought about.  But while watching, I was really wishing that TVXQ would be guests.  XD  Ah, but since I've been so used to seeing TVXQ (Kpop in general) dancing, whenever I see KAT-TUN (or several Jpop groups) dancing...it's a bit...off? 

Sadly, one of the members, Akanishi Jin, announced his departure from the group to pursue a solo career.  With that, the 'A' in the group was also used by Kame, so now it's (KA)menashi, (T)aguchi, *hyphen*, (T)anaka, (U)eda, (N)akamaru.  It's rather sad to see groups I like have to split...even if it's only a few members that leave.  Fans are hopeful that one day Akanishi will come back much like many Cassies are hopeful that TVXQ will come back together.  

Well, as of now, KAT-TUN has made themselves a little cozy spot in my list of groups I follow.  Currently, they are my bias group from Japan.  There is still quite a bit I don't know about them, but slowly and surely, I shall get to know them better~!  If you'd like, you can check them out too!   

Showing Love To My Other Favorite Jpop Groups: Hey!Say!JUMP!

Well, I really don't know much about them...except that all ten of them are younger than me.  Yup, all TEN of them.  They are under the label known for making boy bands in Japan, Johnny's Entertaiment.  I have heard of them for quite some time, but never actually saw a music video of them until a year ago.  You can view Dreams Come True here.  (Credits to whoever loaded the video) 

Yeah...I know...  ^_^;;  They are an adorable bunch of kids.  It's similar to my liking of Taemin of SHINee.  But underneath that cute exterior are some sexy beasts:

When I saw this pic, my first reaction was O__O  Then my second was: "What the f***!  They're too young to be showing their bodies!"  One is like 15 for cryin' out loud!  ...But it was still sexy.  Though, I think it is a thing in Johnny's Entertainment to do things like this.  Kinda reminds me a bit of SM Entertainment in S. Korea.

Hey!Say!JUMP! has also been split into a few subgroups too.  The only two I know of are Hey!Say!BEST! (which I think is comprised of the older members) and NYC Boys (which has a few of the members).  There is one song from NYC Boys that I do like, and it is of the same title:

Video Credit:  fannychan09

Haha, I guess I'm quite intrigued by them.  But I als feel bad for one of the members.  He is Hikaru Yaotome (the second to last member on the second row of the pic above).  You see, his hometown was in the city of Sendai...which was caught in the midst of the terrible tsunami back in March.  Right after that happened, he couldn't get in touch with his family who still lived there.  I'm not sure if he has gotten any word for their safety, but I pray that he did get some contact from them.  There has also been recent controversy that their youngest member, Ryotaro Morimoto, had been caught smoking via some old pics of when he was 14-15 (he's 16 now).  Needless to say, all his future activities with the goup have been suspended for quite a while.  =_=;;

So while this group has a bunch of youngsters in it, I'll just say that they're more like little brothers (or sons, lol) that I watch every now and then.  If you'd like, you can check them out too~!  ^o^

Here

I just thought I'd share this song that is from one of my favorite singers, Maaya Sakamoto.  This is one of the songs that kind of makes me think of the whole JYJ, HoMin, SM, JYJ stans, HoMin stans, OT5 situation.  I also have lyrics that I found on Anime Lyrics dot Com.  Enjoy~!

Video credit: tarentis1

Here, people look for heaven
Livin' in a fear of God
Losing themselves, hiding forever
Afraid of what they're not
She spent her whole life
Chasing stardust
And then when she could taste it
A million dollars of pride
And still unhappy

So sad, she couldn't feel, she couldn't feel
I know the story
So sad, she couldn't feel, she couldn't feel
I know the score

Here I am, I've walked a promise
But it can take so long
Here I am, I've walked the shadows
It's time that I move on
With myself, I share the silence
I jus' walk along
Walk along

Here, people hide in darkness
Watchin' their shadows grow
Tears of gold or nothing matters
Selling themselves out short
Take diamonds for hope and fame for caring
The things she couldn't give up
She blows out the candle of love
And loses her way out

So mad, she couldn't see, she couldn't see
I know the story
So mad, she couldn't see, she couldn't see
I know the score

Here I am, I've walked a promise
But it can take so long
Here I am, I've walked the shadows
It's time that I move on
With myself, I share the silence
I jus' walk along
I walk along

People here choose not to listen
Afraid of what they might hear
Believing in lies and contradiction
Can be so safe and warm
And so many people tried to tell her
You know she wouldn't listen
A million voices called out
She jus' walked away

So loud, she couldn't hear, she couldn't hear
I know the story
So loud, she couldn't hear, she wouldn't hear
I know the score

Here I am, I've walked a promise
But it can take so long
Here I am, I've walked the shadows
It's time that I move on
With myself, I share the silence
I jus' walk along
I walk along

Words by Tim Jensen
Composed and arranged by Kanno Yoko

Transliterated by Orihara Kaoru

Such A Sweet Video...

While searching for a good Maaya Sakamoto song to let some people of Facebook listen to, I instantly thought of the song, "No Fear~Aisuru Koto" (I suggest you all listen to this one).  So while typing it in, this is the first video I clicked because this person took the time to put the song with the ideas of helping Japan.  It is such a sweet video, and I think you all should take a look at it.  Please enjoy~!

Credit: SugarEatBreadxD

Happy Belated Birthday, Maaya Sakamoto!

I am a day late on this (two days if you go by Japan time), but I'd like to wish my favorite Japanese songstress a Happy Birthday!  On March 31st, Maaya-san turned 31.  I was thinking about spamming my Facebook and my Twitter with everything Maaya related, but I didn't.  Then I was going to make a post for her, but I didn't either; hence, my post today.