End of an Era: Arashi Announces Disbandment After Farewell Tour
- J-pop mega-group Arashi to disband after final tour
- Arashi, a five-member boyband, debuted in 1999 and became the face of Japan’s boyband empire
- They went on a hiatus in 2020 and will reunite for a final concert tour in spring next year
- The announcement of their disbandment has led to an outpouring of gratitude and lamentations from fans
- Even Japan’s top government spokesman offered a tribute to Arashi
- The group’s former talent agency founder, Johnny Kitagawa, was found to have sexually molested teenage boys and young men under his tutelage
J-pop sensation Arashi, a five-member boyband that has captivated audiences since their debut in 1999, has announced their plans to disband after their final tour next year. The group, known for their catchy music and chart-topping hits, rose to fame as the face of Japan’s once-thriving boyband empire Johnny and Associates before taking a hiatus in 2020.
Fans of Arashi have eagerly awaited their return to the music scene, and on Tuesday, the group made a bittersweet announcement that they will reunite for a final tour in the spring of next year. This tour will mark the end of their activities as a band.
“In the last year before our hiatus, we couldn’t perform in front of you due to the pandemic,” Arashi’s official statement on X account said. “The five of us will now reunite and start preparing for a concert tour scheduled for around spring next year. And that tour will end our activity as Arashi.”
The news of their disbandment has sparked an outpouring of gratitude and sadness on social media, with fans expressing their love and appreciation for the group. The announcement has also dominated Japanese news programs, with many reflecting on the impact that Arashi has had on the music industry.
One fan expressed their emotions, writing, “Their dissolution is immensely sad and my brain can’t quite process the information yet, but thank you so much for creating one last opportunity for us to see you all.” Even Japan’s government spokesman paid tribute to Arashi, acknowledging their role in promoting Japanese culture overseas.
Arashi’s former talent agency, Johnny and Associates, faced controversy in 2023 when it was revealed that its founder, Johnny Kitagawa, had sexually abused teenage boys and young men under his tutelage. Despite this scandal, Arashi continued to be a beloved and respected group in the music industry.
As the group prepares for their final tour, fans are gearing up to bid farewell to Arashi and celebrate their legacy in the music world. With their catchy tunes and energetic performances, Arashi has left an indelible mark on the J-pop scene and will be remembered for years to come.
The news of Arashi’s disbandment marks the end of an era for fans of the beloved boyband, but their music and memories will continue to resonate with audiences around the world. As they prepare to take their final bow, Arashi’s legacy as one of Japan’s most iconic musical acts will live on in the hearts of their devoted fans.
/Digital Sauce
