CHAGE and ASKA’s Continued Hiatus: The Challenges Despite Recent Discussions

I spoke with CHAGE on the phone for about an hour.

On October 1, the duo CHAGE and ASKA (both 66) lifted the distribution restrictions on all of their albums and singles. As a result, fans can now enjoy the entire CHAGE and ASKA discography on subscription services like Spotify.

This year, on August 25, they announced the release of all their songs for streaming in celebration of their 45th anniversary. On that day, the streaming of their best album “CHAGE & ASKA VERY BEST ROLL OVER 20TH,” released in December 1999 and containing 29 tracks of their hit songs, was also made available.

After the announcement, ASKA shared the process leading up to the streaming release on his blog. He reflected, “CHAGE had wanted to enter the streaming scene for four years, but I didn’t have the desire to jump in yet.” He also revealed, “Recently, I spoke with CHAGE on the phone for about an hour. He said, ‘You’re getting more stubborn as you get older.’ Well, it goes both ways, doesn’t it?” (laughs).

However, he also wrote, “But right now, I can’t say as C&A.” This is understandable because on August 25, 2019, which marked their 40th anniversary, ASKA suddenly announced his departure from CHAGE and ASKA.

In his blog post announcing his departure, ASKA noted, “I think some people in the music industry, as well as those who know us well, were already aware of this fact,” reflecting on the background that led to their indefinite hiatus after deciding to disband in February 2009.

 

 

Resignation: What is ASKA’s true intention?

“In 2009, it was the 30th anniversary year of CHAGE and ASKA’s debut. However, in January of that year, some media reported on the dissolution of CHAGE and ASKA. In response, the duo’s management denied the reports of a breakup. This was followed by an announcement of an indefinite hiatus.

In January 2013, it was announced on their official website that CHAGE and ASKA would resume activities, with a revival concert scheduled for the end of August at the National Yoyogi Stadium. Fans were filled with anticipation, but in June, ASKA was diagnosed with a need for rest due to suspected transient ischemic attack, resulting in the postponement of the concert.

Then, in August, Weekly Bunshun reported on ASKA’s drug use allegations, leading to ASKA’s suspension of activities in October. The following May, he was arrested on suspicion of violating the Stimulants Control Law (possession). The management company subsequently terminated its contract with ASKA,” said a record company official.

In September 2014, ASKA received a sentence of three years in prison, with a four-year suspension. Despite a re-arrest incident in November 2016, he was not prosecuted in December. He then resumed his music activities in earnest in 2017.

“ASKA’s arrest for being with his mistress worsened his marital relationship. In July 2017, he revealed that he had divorced his wife of 30 years. Although ASKA once decided to disband, his resignation in 2019 is believed to be a way to take responsibility for the public disturbances he caused.” said a sports newspaper reporter.

 

 

CHAGE does not forgive ASKA.

In the end, the last single released by CHAGE and ASKA was “Man and Woman” / “Here & There,” which came out on January 10, 2007. Their last original album, “DOUBLE”, was released on January 24 of the same year. The final time they performed together on stage was during the tour’s last concert at the National Yoyogi Stadium on December 24, 2007. The question remains: will they resume their activities in the future?

“CHAGE negotiated with ASKA to allow the release of their music on streaming platforms, aiming to reach more fans. In 2022, ASKA revealed during a YouTube appearance that he only communicated with CHAGE through their lawyers and did not know how to contact him directly.

Thus, the fact that they spoke for an hour on the phone suggests that their relationship is moving toward repair. However, CHAGE still remains resolute in not forgiving ASKA for tarnishing the group’s name. As it stands, it seems unlikely that the two will share the stage again anytime soon,” said a music industry insider.

For the time being, fans might have to wait for a long time to see the scenes they wish for. They can only hold onto a slim hope for the duo’s 50th anniversary in 2029.