Akina Nakamori’s Comeback Success Paves Way for Kohaku Uta Gassen Appearance

The legendary diva Akina Nakamori has taken a new step toward a “complete comeback.”

 

“From July 12 to 14, at Tokyo’s ‘COTTON CLUB,’ an event was held for official fan club members. Despite the high ticket price of 71,300 yen (excluding tax) per performance, approximately 900 fans flocked to all five shows.” (according to a variety show insider)

 

At this live performance, she showcased 11 “jazz versions” of her classic hits and medleys from old albums, and successfully completed the event. 

 

“On July 13 of this year, turning 59, Akina Nakamori performed in front of fans for the first time in six and a half years. Starting with ‘TATTO-JAZZ-‘ on April 3, she released jazz versions of her classic hits, accompanied by the latest videos, every Wednesday for five weeks on her official YouTube channel. She also streamed globally on July 15, marking significant progress toward a ‘complete comeback.'” (according to a variety show insider)

 

Akina Nakamori debuted in 1982 with “Slow Motion.” From 1984’s “Southern Wind” to 1988’s “TATTOO,” she achieved the milestone of 16 consecutive singles debuting at number one on the charts. However, her fate took a dramatic turn.

 

“Her relationship with ‘Match,’ or Masahiko Kondo, whom she co-starred with in the movie ‘Ai・Tabidachi,’ was exposed. In 1989, when reports emerged of Match’s secret meetings with Seiko Matsuda in New York, Nakamori attempted suicide.

 

Moreover, their New Year’s Eve ‘gold screen press conference’ ended up being just a simple comeback press conference, disappointing fans. Looking back, Nakamori’s downfall seemed to start from this point.” (according to a women’s magazine reporter)

 

Entering the 1990s, Nakamori faced various troubles, including record company issues, which led to a loss of her former brilliance as a diva. Her struggles mirrored the sadness of post-bubble Japan. 

The person who extended a helping hand to her was Akira Terabayashi, often referred to as her “foster parent.”

“Mr. Terabayashi first saw potential in Akina Nakamori when she appeared on the audition program ‘Star Tanjou!’ (NTV). After she signed a contract with Warner Pioneer, he took charge of her production and promotion, overseeing her activities.

 

Eventually, after many twists and turns, in 2002, when Nakamori faced a ‘retirement crisis,’ he extended a helping hand by inviting her to Universal Music, where he served as an executive officer, offering her a way out.” (according to a former record company promoter)

 

Under Terabayashi’s guidance, Nakamori released various cover albums, including enka, mood music, and folk songs, showcasing her vocal skills. However, when asked if she has regained her former brilliance as a diva, the answer would have to be “NO.” 

 

In 2010, due to health issues, Nakamori announced an indefinite hiatus from her entertainment activities. In 2014, she appeared as a surprise guest on NHK’s “Kohaku Uta Gassen,” performing original songs, but the broadcast from New York did not solidify the impression of a “complete comeback.”

 

However, Terabayashi never gave up.

 

“In 2022, marking Nakamori’s 40th anniversary, Terabayashi was reportedly working behind the scenes to secure her appearance on ‘Kohaku.’ Unfortunately, Terabayashi fell ill in August of that year and passed away in November, causing the planned surprise appearance to vanish.” (according to the aforementioned promoter)

 

Amid these developments, expectations are now focused on a potential “live appearance” on this year’s “Kohaku.” 

 

“From NHK’s perspective, live broadcasts certainly carry risks. However, there’s no doubt that Nakamori is an artist worth taking such risks for. It is likely that Nakamori’s side views a ‘Kohaku’ appearance as a fitting stage for her comeback.” (according to a music program director)

 

If we’re talking about a true “complete comeback,” it seems fitting that she should perform not just jazz versions but original songs with her unique flair, such as ‘Mi Amore’ and ‘DESIRE’ from the 1980s. Only then could it be considered a genuine ‘Nakamori revival.’

 

Will the legendary diva Akina Nakamori be able to revive herself beyond the lost 30 years?