Akina Nakamori’s Relaxed Hotel Return and the Positive Reason Behind It

In 2010, “legendary diva” Akina Nakamori (59) announced an indefinite hiatus due to health issues and had been absent from the public eye for a long time. Fans and people across Japan eagerly awaited her return, and she has finally come back to the stage with renewed energy.

 

On July 13, around 10 PM, a luxury car parked in an underground garage. Following a man who seemed to be the driver, Akina Nakamori, showing a slightly tired expression, got out of the car. Wearing a black dress, sunglasses, and with her hair tied up, the singer exuded an undeniable charisma, instantly recognizable as “Akina Nakamori,” despite her nonchalant demeanor.

The news of Akina Nakamori’s official comeback was reported in April of this year. To coincide with her 59th birthday on July 13, an event was planned for July 12-14 exclusively for fan club members. With her first public appearance in six and a half years, demand for event tickets surged, leading to an outpouring of disappointed fans on social media after the lottery. The event had become a true national event.

On the day of the event, when asked about their feelings while waiting in a long line to check in an hour before the start, participants responded with excitement.

“At the entrance to the venue, there were vibrant flower stands, and many fans were holding paper bags filled with old live goods and presents. Although there were only 180 seats per show and ticket demand was high, fans didn’t feel that the 78,000 yen ticket price was excessive for the chance to see Akina Nakamori live.”

 

On this special birthday, Akina performed hit songs as a gesture of gratitude to the fans who had been waiting for her return. She delivered a medley of 11 songs, including her signature hits “Slow Motion,” “Gypsy Queen,” and “North Wing.” Receiving enthusiastic cheers and warm applause from the fans, Akina smiled widely and expressed her joy at being able to spend the time together. 

 

After successfully finishing the evening performance at the live restaurant, Akina arrived at her hotel via a shuttle car. She exchanged words with office staff before disappearing into the hotel.

Since her last fan appearance at a dinner show at the end of 2017, Akina Nakamori had not been in front of her fans for six and a half years. Many fans of her generation, dressed up in their finest, flocked to the venue, and the event was a huge success throughout the day. 

 

On the morning of the next day, around 11 AM, the same shuttle car arrived at the underground parking lot. Soon after, Akina Nakamori appeared with a bright expression, holding her cellphone and making a call, a stark contrast to her previous day’s demeanor.

 

Her unique outfit, featuring fluffy permed hair, black sunglasses, and a T-shirt with a young photo of herself, caught attention. With a broad smile, she happily got into the car and headed towards the live venue where fans were waiting.

 

On July 12, she performed in the evening, and on July 13 and 14, she held both day and night performances each day, completing a total of five shows. The “legendary diva” captivated approximately 900 fans over the three days. With anticipation for new song releases, a national tour, and participation in NHK’s “Kohaku Uta Gassen,” excitement for her future activities continues to grow.