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Celebrate 25 years of J-pop diva Kumi Koda with new song 'This weekend' – listen

Celebrate 25 years of J-pop diva Kumi Koda with new song 'This weekend' – listen

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On 6 December, the date of her 2000 debut, J-pop diva Kumi Koda kicked off celebrations of her 25th anniversary year. Her first ever domestic dinner show tour, titled KODA KUMI 25th Anniversary Love & Songs, has already begun, and now she's also revealed a new 25th anniversary artist photo along with the release of a brand new song.

This silver jubilee song ‘This weekend’ is also the theme for Koda’s first GEMCEREY commercial in 17 years.

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The R&B-flavoured track sings of a woman’s growing feelings and expectations for her boyfriend, with lyrics that translate as “Maybe he’ll confess his feelings by this weekend” and “Maybe something will happen this weekend”. The stylish cover artwork was also revealed, showing Koda clad in glittering jewelry.

As another part of this quarter-century celebration, Kumi’s first ever feature-length documentary KODA KUMI 25th Anniversary Documentary Film “walk” was shown for two days only in Tokyo, on 6 December at United Cinema Toyosu and 7 Decembe at United Cinema Aqua City Odaiba.

Rather than the Kumi Koda we see in the spotlight on stage, the documentary focuses on the J-pop star behind the scenes, as she overcomes challenging experiences, hardships, accidents and other trials in the years following her debut. It mainly looks back on her current tour, featuring special interviews with her closest staff members and Koda herself. The story unfolds alongside tons of behind-the-scenes and live footage.

Additionally, at the nearby Tokyo venue Kiranah Garden Toyosu, a special 25th anniversary event was also held on 6 December, titled CLUB KODA, filled with Kumi Koda’s visuals and music as a huge thank you to her fans.

Kumi Koda’s 25th anniversary year has only just begun, and even more special announcements are on the horizon! Keep an eye out for further updates over the coming year.