YOASOBI released the song Biri-Biri in Japanese and English simultaneously on Saturday, November 18th, 2023, the first anniversary of the release of the Nintendo Switch games Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. On Friday, November 10th, 2023, an original short novel After the Rain With You was also released and is based on the games as well.


This is the first time that YOASOBI has collaborated with a video game to produce a song. The cover of the album features the Pokémon Pawmot. A music video was released later on in the day. High resolution pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.


Starting on Saturday, November 18th, 2023, patrons that purchase 6,000 yen or more (including tax) at Pokémon Centers and the Pokémon Center Online, they can receive a physical copy of the After the Rain With You (きみと雨上がりを) short novel written by Ayano Takeda. The content of the book are the same as the web version.

YouTube Clip - YOASOBI「Biri-Biri」 Official Music Video

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shZyg5VFI1Y

Promotional Video:

Ayase Comment:
I wrote the song "Biri-Biri" to commemorate the first anniversary of the release of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. I am very happy to be able to be involved with Pokémon, which I have loved for a long time. I am a fan of the series, and I have played through the game so much that I have beat it 3 times. Based on the novel written by Ms. Takeda, I wrote this song with a lot of love for Pokémon, thinking about the Paldea region, which I have explored. I would be happy if you could feel the thrill and excitement of battles and adventure.
Once again, congratulations on the first anniversary of the release!

ikura Comment:
Congratulations on the first anniversary of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet!
I am truly honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with Pokémon through music, as it continues to be loved by many people. I read the novel After the Rain With You written by Ms. Takeda and tried to create a singing voice that would make the audience feel the enthusiastic thrill of adventure and battle that the main character Nemo has as well as her love for Pokémon. I hope that many people will enjoy Biri-Biri along with the novel. Thank you very much.

『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売1周年記念日となる11/18(土)に、同作インスパイアソング「Biri-Biri」、日本語・英語版を同時リリース決定＆配信ジャケット公開！

YOASOBI初のゲーム作品とのコラボ楽曲となり、楽曲原作は武田綾乃書き下ろしオリジナル短編小説「きみと雨上がりを」！

YOASOBIが、Nintendo Switchソフト『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売1周年記念日となる11月18日(土)に、同作インスパイアソング「Biri-Biri」を、日本語・英語版で同時配信リリースすることが決定した。11月10日(金)に、ゲーム発売1周年を記念して、『響け！ ユーフォニアム』シリーズなどの代表作をもつ実力派作家・武田綾乃が執筆した、『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』を原案とするオリジナル短編小説『きみと雨上がりを』（監修：株式会社ポケモン・株式会社ゲームフリーク）が公開された。楽曲「Biri-Biri」は、その小説を原作としてYOASOBIが、『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』インスパイアソングとして書き下ろした作品。ゲーム作品とコラボして楽曲制作を行うのは、今回が初めての取り組みとなる。日本語版「Biri-Biri」に加えて、英語版「Biri-Biri(English Version)」も同日にリリース。配信ジャケットは、なんと作品に登場するポケモン“パーモット”絵柄となる。さらに本人からのコメントも到着！Music Videoも近日公開予定となるので、楽しみにしていて欲しい。

◆Ayaseコメント
『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売１周年を記念して「Biri-Biri」という曲を書かせていただきました。昔から大好きなポケモンに音楽という形で携わることができて本当に嬉しいです。僕自身シリーズのファンであり、今作においても、今回の企画とは関係なく3周クリアするくらいにはやり込みました。武田先生が書き下ろしてくださった小説を元に、自分自身で歩いたパルデアの大地に想いを馳せて、ポケモンへの愛をたっぷり詰め込んで作りました。ビリビリと痺れるバトルと冒険の息吹を感じてもらえたら嬉しいです。
改めて発売一周年、おめでとうございます！

◆ikuraコメント
『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売1周年おめでとうございます！
多くの人に愛され続けているポケモンと、音楽という形でコラボの機会をいただくことができ、心から光栄に思います。武田先生が書き下ろしてくださった小説「きみと雨上がりを」を読み、主人公ネモが馳せる冒険やバトルへの熱意と信念、ポケモンへの愛を、感じてもらえるような歌声を目指しました。作品と共に「Biri-Biri」も沢山の方に楽しんでいただけたら嬉しいです。よろしくお願いします。

また、全国のポケモンセンター・ポケモンセンター出張所では11月18日(土)から、ポケモンセンターオンラインでは11月17日(金)10時から、6,000円以上（税込）お買い物をした方に、原作小説である『きみと雨上がりを』冊子版を、1冊プレゼントするキャンペーンも実施中。ゲーム、小説、楽曲を行き来して、是非楽しんでほしい。
※冊子版の内容は、WEB版で掲載されている内容と同じものです。
※プレゼントは、なくなり次第終了となります。

Sources: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000817.000055377.html and https://novel-kimiame.pokemon.co.jp/

Sony Music Marketing United has announced the Aim To Be A Pokémon Master [Limited Edition 7inch Analog Vinyl] will be released in Japan on December 27th, 2023 for 2,970 yen. It includes a sticker and zukan shaped card. Details of this release have been added to our Audio Database.

The first opening song Aim To Be A Pokémon Master (Rica Matsumoto) and the ending song "151" (Professor Okido (Unsho Ishizuka) and the Pokémon Kids) from the Pocket Monsters anime was released on December 27th, 2023 as a 7-inch vinyl in limited quantities. A special website was opened to promote the vinyl release.

Both songs were originally released as a 8cm CD single in 1997, but this will be the first time that they will be released on vinyl.

Extras:
① Removable! Satoshi & Pikachu transparent sticker (W87 x H127mm) - A tribute to the removable Pikachu sticker that was a bonus item with the 8cm single released in 1997!
② Pokémon Zukan-shaped Foldable Card (H120 x W82mm) - A Foldable card in the shape of a Pokémon Zukan. The card is folded twice to resemble a Pokémon Zukan, which will certainly be a joy to hold.

Store Exclusives:
Amazon.co.jp: Mega Jacket
HMV: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Fushigidane design)
TOWER RECORDS: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Hitokage design)
Sony Music Shop: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Zenigame design)
Other Stores: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Pikachu design)

It has been announced that chapter 1 of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), "Liko and Roy Set Off", is about to reach its climax. A new trailer depicting upcoming events was also released.

YouTube Clip - Terapagos' Shine Arc Trailer (Japan Region Locked)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMJBx_HTuB8

Episode 23, "Galar Fire Blazes Up", which aired on the 22nd, featured not the Black Rayquaza, but a Galar Fire carrying an ancient monster ball, the proof of being one of the Six Heroes that traveled with Lucius! Liko and the others want to close in on this Galar Fire somehow, but it's burning with anger and keeps everyone at arm's length, so they came up with a plan that incorporated Gym Leader Kabu's advice that winning battles isn't the only way to be a Trainer.

The new trailer finally reveals the tale of the Ancient Adventurer Lucius' adventures, as well as the true identity of the mysterious Pokémon the pendant turned into. The story centered around this mysterious Pokémon starts taking some sudden twists and turns as the executives of the Explorers, the organization Amethio belongs to, begin taking personal action.

The next episode, episode 24, "Reunion at the Old Castle", will air October 13th. Liko's pendant has turned into a mysterious Pokémon, as, wanting to learn the truth about this Pokémon, she and the others head for Liko's grandmother Diana's location and finally reunite with her at a hidden old castle. Diana tells them the tale of Lucius' adventures, and of the mysterious Pokémon "Terapagos". Meanwhile, Amethio and his fellow Explorers approach the old castle, having followed Liko and the others there...

Weekly sets of episodes of the Pocket Monsters anime will be available on the official Pokémon Youtube channel from Friday September 29th to Friday October 27th! This allows you to binge the "Liko and Roy Set Off" arc in time for the upcoming "Terapagos' Shine" arc, so make sure to check it out!

It has been decided that Nanase Nishino, who plays the protagonist in the original Pokémon live action serial Pokétsume, will join the Pokémon anime as a guest voice actor in December. She will be playing an Eteboth. Further details will be announced later.

A comment from Nanase Nishino:
I've loved the Pokémon video games ever since I was a child, so I was extremely happy to learn that I would be appearing in the Pocket Monsters anime TV show. I was initially surprised that I had been cast as an Eteboth, since I wasn't expecting that I'd play an actual Pokémon, but I'm considering this a great honor.
I actually found it to be quite difficult since the way I had to approach my lines was so different from when I'm doing live action. It required a strong sense of imagination since I needed to get across my character's thoughts and current situation purely through making noises.
I got the hang of it little by little though, and it made me really happy when the sound director told me I was "getting close to an Eteboth now"! This entire thing was a really good experience for me, and one that really made me fall in love with Eteboth. The episode won't be airing for a while though, but look forward to it!
-Nanase Nishino, the voice of Eteboth

Terapagos' Shine

The popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke") is about to enter its second chapter, which is going to be subtitled "Terapagos' Shine". A new poster depicting the Pokémon Terapagos, which holds the key to the protagonists Liko and Roy's adventure, has been released, as has a new trailer.

In Chapter 2, "Terapagos' Shine", a new adventure begins for Liko and Roy when they meet Terapagos, the mysterious Pokémon that has just transformed from its pendant form.


Liko has previously learned about the legend of the "Ancient Adventurer Lucius" from her grandmother Diana, and the trailer released today shows her pledging to grant Terapagos' wish by searching for "Rakua", a place filled with its memories of Lucius.

It has also been revealed that the Black Rayquaza Roy is chasing down was one of the Six Hero Pokémon that went on an adventure with Lucius in the distant past, and that the Explorers, the organization Amethio belongs to, have started their pursuit of the Black Rayquaza as well.


But what is the true goal of the Explorers...? The curtain goes up for a new adventure for Liko, Roy and the others centered around Lucius, the Six Heroes, as well as Terapagos.

It has also been revealed that the new opening theme that will adorn the story of Chapter 2 will be "Hello". Outstanding creators yama and Botchi Boromaru, who have recently been getting really popular on the Internet, primarily on social media, have teamed up as the special unit "yama x Botchi Boromaru" in order to vigorously sing this fast-paced song!

The new opening theme "Hello" will debut on October 27th with episode 26, "Terapagos' Adventure", and can also be heard in the trailer that released today.


A comment from yama:
When I was little, I was particularly fond of the Pokémon movies, which moved me to tears as I kept watching them over and over. This wasn't because I was a particularly emotional child, but because I found the deep bond between Pokémon and humans, along with the music in these movies, to be so moving. I still play video games even as an adult, and Pokémon ones give me these therapeutic, warm and exciting memories. It's a genuine honor to be allowed to handle the theme song this time.
It will make me really happy if this song wil help ease its listeners' anxieties and insecurities and make them recall how cheerful and exciting their daily life can be, even if just a little. Botchi Boromaru-san and I poured our hearts and souls into this song, so I hope its message will reach as many people as possible.


A comment from Botchi Boromaru:
Pokémon has been there with me in some shape or form ever since I was little, not just as video games, but also as a card game, stickers included with sweets, and plushies. I was especially into the anime, taping it every week and watching the episodes over and over, and singing the opening and ending themes at karaoke competitions during grade school. I even used to draw manga starring Pikachu that I'd show to my friends.
But I never even dreamed that I'd one day get to sing a theme song for the Pokémon anime I loved so much! If I tried telling this to my past self that hadn't even started playing the guitar yet, it'd probably sound too ridiculous to believe. This is hands down the greatest thing that has ever happened to me, no exaggeration! yama-san and I took great care in creating this song as we remembered our past selves and thinking about our present selves at the same time. Please enjoy!!!

The NHK Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet Pokémon Mini Concerts to Support Reconstruction in Miyagi Prefecture (復興支援 N響メンバーによるポケモンミニコンサート in 宮城県) are being promoted by the Pokémon Daisuki Club and will take place on October 8th and 9th, 2023. A performance will be streamed on the Pokémon Kids TV YouTube channel at a later date.


This time Pikachu and Lapras will be there as well as orchestra members: Tomoyuki Hasegawa (長谷川智之), Eiji Yamamoto (山本英司) on Trumpet, Yudai Shoji (庄司雄大) on Horn, Koga Hikaru (古賀光) on Trombone and Kazuhiko Sato (佐藤和彦) from the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra on Tuba.

Performances:

Sunday, October 8th, 2023 at 16:00 (approx. 60 minutes)
Venue: Yamamoto Town Disaster Prevention Base, Yamashita Community Hall (山元町防災拠点・山下地域交流センター)
Capacity: Approximately 200 people (Free admission, Reserved seating)

Monday, October 9th, 2023 at 12:30/15:00 (about 30 minutes each time)
Venue: Marble Road Omachi Shopping Street (マーブルロードおおまち商店街)
Capacity: Approx. 100 persons per session (Admission free, Reserved seating)

Source: https://www.pokemon.jp/special/pokemonminiconcert/

YouTube Clip - NHK Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet Pokémon Mini Concert (October 9th, 2023)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy67tuT4AE4

A collaboration project between Hatsune Miku, a virtual singer developed by Crypton Future Media, and Pokémon created by The Pokémon Company, began on August 31st, 2023. The project is called Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku Project VOLTAGE 18 Types/Songs.

Using the 18 different Pokémon types as a reference, 18 music creators will release a series of sampled songs and music videos based on the official Pokémon game soundtracks over several months starting on September 29th, 2023. Prior to the release of the songs and music videos, 18 illustrations and setting materials featuring Hatsune Miku as a Pokémon trainer will also be released starting on Monday, September 4th, 2023.

INTRODUCTION

Pokémon started as a video game in 1996. In 2007, Hatsune Miku began as singer using voice synthesizing software.

The two have connected and enriched both the real and virtual worlds, and creators that are full of individuality have collaborated together to challenge their expression.

With 18 different "types" like cool, cute, mysterious, and fun...... a variety of music and illustrations await you.

This is where dreams, adventures, the future, and sound meet in a worlds first. Turn up the voltage high and please enjoy.

Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku Project VOLTAGE 18 Types/Songs, starts now!

CONTENTS:

Illustrations and setting materials of the 18 types featuring Hatsune Miku and her Pokémon partners will be released from September 4th, 2023 to September 28th, 2023. One type per day will be released at 19:00 every weekday! Check out the official X account!

Six artists have drawn 18 illustrators under the theme, "If Hatsune Miku was a ___-type Pokémon Trainer.......?"

The participating illustrators will be announced at the same time as the release of each illustration and setting material.

Over the next few months, 18 songs and music videos by 18 Vocaloid Ps will be released sequentially on each Vocaloid P's YouTube channel.

The common theme of the project is Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku and feature samples of BGM and sound effects from the Pokémon games.

Teaser Illustration:

The illustrator in charge of the teaser visuals is KEI, who worked on the character design of Hatsune Miku. He drew Kamonegi and Pikachu along with Hatsune Miku holding a monster ball. The teaser visual is filled with a sense of anticipation, signaling the beginning of a collaboration that no one has seen or heard of yet.

Comment from KEI:

I was surprised and happy because I never thought I would be asked to draw Pokémon illustrations. Thank you very much for this amazing experience.

Sources: https://www.project-voltage.jp/ and https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000248.000052709.html

Artwork:

The pictures are also available on an Imageboard thread.

Announcement	Main Art	Character Sheet	Info

PokéMiku Support Illustrations:

Starting on October 27th, 2023, support illustration artwork based on a theme were revealed.

Announcement	Main Art	Character Sheet	Info

1. DECO*27 - Volt Tackle feat. Hatsune Miku

Lyrics: DECO*27 / Project VOLTAGE
Music: DECO*27
Arrangement: DECO*27 & tepe
Orchestral Arrangement: Satoshi Setsune
Bass: Kei Nakamura
Movie by: OTOIRO
Director: awashima
Illustrator: omutatsu
SD Illustrator: rozuki
Animator: kee
Art Director / Graphic Designer: DMYM
Graphic Designer: lowpolydog
Assistant Designer: Mitsumi Yanokawa
Movie Editor: Shimpei Oniki
Sound Product Manager: Yusuke Sato
Chief Producer: Iori Majima

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-7TIDIKc98

2. INABAKUMORI - Electric Forecast feat. Hatsune Miku

Lyrics: INABAKUMORI (稲葉曇) / Project VOLTAGE
Music: INABAKUMORI (稲葉曇)
Vocal: Hatsune Miku (初音ミク)
Illustration: Nukunuku nigirimeshi (ぬくぬくにぎりめし)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-7TIDIKc98

3. INABAKUMORI - What kind of future awaits feat. Hatsune Miku

Lyrics: Mitchie M / Project VOLTAGE
Composer: Mitchie M
Arranger: Mitchie M

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG05Sm68z4s

4. PinocchioP - The Pokémon Inside My Heart feat. Hatsune Miku

Music, Character & Pokémon Illustration: PinocchioP
Lyrics: PinocchioP, Project VOLTAGE
Music Video Direction: Shun Yamaguchi
Illustration, Animation: Sowiti, mise, Shun Yamaguchi
Graphic Design: Katsuki Yoshinaga

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIoi2r3f5fU

5. Battle! (Hatsune Miku)

Music: cosMo@bousouP
Lyrics: cosMo@bousouP / Project VOLTAGE
Illustration: Yuichi Murakami
Background Art: meso
Movie: omu

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knxWl1LzJ10

6. Fly With You (きみとそらをとぶ) (Hatsune Miku, Megurine Luka)

Lyrics: Tota Kasamura / Project VOLTAGE
Composer: Tota Kasamura / machiomiii
Illustration: Akako

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dq2HJl5vKbY

7. I GOT YOU! (ガッチュー！) (Hatsune Miku, Rin, Len)

Vocal : Miku・Rin・Len
Zukan Dex:KAITO
Music: Giga
Lyrics: q*Left,Giga / Project VOLTAGE
Illust: △○□×
Movie: お菊,筆者
Special Thanks : Sena Kiryuin, rachie

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dq2HJl5vKbY

8. JUVENILE (Hatsune Miku, Rin, Len)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: じん
Lyrics: じん / Project VOLTAGE
Rhythm Guitar: じん
Lead Guitar: しょけん
Bass: ナツメ ユウキ
Drum: ジャンク
Piano: まらしぃ
Arrangement Assist: 緩斗
Vocaloid EDIT: びび
Music Video Direction/Storyboard/Animation/Composite: 山下RIRI
Character Design/ Illustration/Logo Design: たま
Background Art: NaBaBa
Animation Paint: 海月/Reon/山下RIRI

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2-HzUpMY7c

9. DECO*27 - Volt Tackle (Jewel Remix) feat. Hatsune Miku

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
©DECO*27/OTOIRO
Lyrics: DECO*27 / Project VOLTAGE
Music: DECO*27
Remix: DECO*27 & tepe
Movie by OTOIRO
Director / Composite / 3DCG: GA
Logo Designer: DMYM
Original Music Video Credit
Director: awashima
Illustrator: omutatsu
SD Illustrator: rozuki
Animator: kee
Art Director / Graphic Designer: DMYM
Graphic Designer: lowpolydog
Assistant Designer: Mitsumi Yanokawa
Movie Editor: Shimpei Oniki
English Translator: Iori Majima

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVcqFMDG2UM

10. I'm a Ghost Type

Song: syudou
lyrics: syudou / Project VOLTAGE
Video/Picture: Kuroume
©Crypton Future Media, INC.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVSSFcP90k0

11. GO! Team BIPPA

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: じーざす
Lyrics: じーざす / Project VOLTAGE
Illust: グライダー
Movie: aco

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtSKbj_Nz_c

12. Hyu~dorodoro feat Hatsune Miku & MEIKO (ひゅ〜どろどろ feat 初音ミク＆MEIKO / 栗山夕璃ろ)

Music,Arrange,MIX＆MAS：栗山夕璃
Lyrics：栗山夕璃 / Project VOLTAGE
Guitar：Nagasaki
Bass：tmsw
Vocaloid Programming：端倉鑛（Van de Shop）
Animation：sakiyama

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8D_7-jNaErg

13. Encounter

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: Orangestar
Lyrics: Orangestar / Project VOLTAGE
Illustration: M.B
Guitar: 遼遼

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUMn-kJbNc0

14. Eon Ticket - Hatsune Miku × KAITO (むげんのチケット / まらしぃ × 初音ミク)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music & Piano：まらしぃ
Lyrics ：まらしぃ / Project VOLTAGE
Arrange & Mix：KOUICHIさん
Vocaloid-Edit：びびさん
Illustoration: 望月けいさん
Video: にへさん
Sub Illustration: そゐちさん

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7Y30h8S7Uw

15. PARTY ROCK ETERNITY feat. Hatsune Miku

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: 八王子P
Words: 八王子P / Project VOLTAGE
Illustration: 赤倉
Movie: omu

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyV8DhouDXY

16. Journey's Prequels, Journey's Traces / Iyowa feat. Hatsune Miku (たびのまえ、たびのあと / いよわ feat.初音ミク)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music : いよわ
Lyrics : いよわ / Project VOLTAGE

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbS1T4d1P70

17. Nayutan Seijin - Esper Esper (ft. Hatsune Miku) (ナユタン星人 - エスパーエスパー (ft.初音ミク))

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music : ナユタン星人
Lyrics : ナユタン星人 / Project VOLTAGE
Pokémon Illustration : 火種
Movie : ナユタン星人

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VA35FGCCX0E

18. Kairiki bear - MELLOMELLOID (ft. Hatsune Miku) (メロメロイド／かいりきベア feat.初音ミク))

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music : かいりきベア
Lyrics : かいりきベア / Project VOLTAGE
Illust：のう

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFpizvPDbec

19. Glorious Day feat.Hatsune Miku (Glorious Day feat. 初音ミク)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Vocal：初音ミク
Lyrics：Eve / Project VOLTAGE
Music：Eve
Arrangement：Numa / Zingai

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABQvefYR9ec

20. After Epochs feat.Hatsune Miku / sasakure.‌UK (アフターエポックス feat.初音ミク / sasakure.‌UK)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: sasakure.UK
Lyrics: sasakure.UK / Project VOLTAGE
Director / Animator / After Epochs Hatsune Miku Designer: 革蝉
Chorus: mami, Perio
Animation Compositor: ミハシ
Animation Producer: Tete
Assistant Animator: 052, 213, あり, 植草航, がーこ, JINO, ちろき, yuki, ユメノサキ, nico

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pykE4kMhUUU

21. Champion (Kanaria)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: Kanaria
Lyrics: Kanaria / Project VOLTAGE

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxjledMkwyk

Chinese singer Lay Zhang has released a new single titled Pokémon Party and a music video for the song was also released. Pokémon Party was produced by a creative team from China and was arranged and produced by Lay Zhang. He is one of the hottest artists in China, as his 9 albums/EPs released so far still hold the record for the highest cumulative album sales by a Chinese artist on Tencent Music. His favorite Pokémon is Kabigon, the sleeping Pokémon.

The single has been added to our Audio database and is available on the following platforms: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music

The main character and his Pokémon friends prepare delicious food and throw a party. The song and music video depicts a serious and sincere protagonist, who lives surrounded by Pokémon, and his lively and energetic Pokémon friends enjoy a party together as part of their everyday life.

YouTube Clip - Lay Zhang - Pokémon Party

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wiCMcAzHhFE

Press Release - Chinese pop icon Lay Zhang partners with Pokémon on new single

Chinese pop sensation Lay Zhang has teamed up with the globally beloved entertainment franchise Pokémon to launch a new single and accompanying music video titled "Pokémon Party," scheduled for release on Aug. 4.

In this upbeat track, Zhang takes on the role of a "Pokémon trainer" and brings together the worlds of music and Pokémon fandom. Produced by Capitol Records China, a preeminent label under Universal Music Group China, this groundbreaking collaboration underscores the strengthening relationship between the international franchise and Chinese creatives.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership, Zhang stated, "I'm thrilled to have been invited by Pokémon and Universal Music to co-create this musical piece. It not only fulfilled my dream of becoming a Pokémon trainer, but I'm even happier that I can bring my favorite Pokémon into my musical world. I hope everyone can feel the joyous energy of Pokémon from the music, and I hope more people fall in love with Pokémon alongside me."

As an internationally recognized Chinese pop superstar, Lay Zhang has carved out a multifaceted career as a singer-songwriter, producer, actor, and dancer. With nine original albums/EPs in his discography, he has accumulated over 13 million sales, more than any other Chinese mainland artist on the Tencent Music platform. Notably, he ranked sixth on the Forbes China Celebrity 100 list and was the first Chinese artist to break into the top five on the iTunes World Album Chart. He also ranked in the top 25 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart. Collaborations with renowned artists such as Steve Aoki, Jason Derulo, and 24kGoldn, along with roles in films amassing over $430 million at the box office, bolster his profile. His upcoming film, "No More Bets," is set for release on Aug. 11.

The "Pokémon Party" music video combines live-action performance with CGI, portraying Zhang as a meticulous Pokémon trainer living alongside a delightful group of Pokémon. The visuals and sound of "Pokémon Party" encapsulate the inclusive and family-oriented spirit synonymous with Pokémon, delivering a heart-warming experience. Zhang, with his deep knowledge and passion for the Pokémon universe, was deeply involved in the creative process, contributing to every facet of the production. Chinese director Qian Ninghuang, known for the popular animated mini-series "Egg Yolk Man," wrote and directed the video's script. The production signifies Pokémon's innovative approach to promoting localized creativity within China.

Managing director of Capitol Records China, Tom Tang, added, "We're honored to team up with Pokémon and invite Lay Zhang to participate in this special music project. Pokémon's persistent refining of creativity and Lay Zhang's relentless pursuit of quality made the creation process full of challenges and fun. We look forward to Pokémon fans worldwide experiencing Lay's immense talent and charm through this new track, as well as appreciating the high quality of Chinese creativity as they join this joyous party. We are further excited about building more creative bridges between local artists and international brands through the medium of music."

Capitol Records China, a crucial player in this innovative collaboration, has facilitated the production and distribution of the new song, marking a substantial milestone as Pokémon expands its global relationship with Universal Music Group in the Chinese market.

Source: http://www.china.org.cn/arts/2023-08/04/content_98516471.htm

The Pokémon Music Collective is a music project where various artists create and release music based on the sounds of the Pokémon games. The third single of the collection is by Michael Kaneko and was released on August 2nd, 2023. It is titled 1999. The song was named "1999" after the year when Michael Kaneko, who spent his childhood overseas, first played the Pokémon video game series.

Following imase's Utau released last September and ENHYPEN's One and Only released last month on July 12th, 2023, 1999 is the third song released from this project. Michael Kaneko is a talented singer-songwriter, who has has many listeners overseas and is known for the smash hit of the song Best Part of Us featuring AmPm.


Michael Kaneko: "I am honored to collaborate with Pokémon which is known around the world. I used to collect Pokémon cards and play the video games when I was in elementary school, so I am honored to be able to create related music. I sampled some of the sound effects and music from the Pokémon video games, so please listen to the song and pay attention for that."

「世界のポケモンとコラボさせて頂きました。小学生の時ポケモンカードを集めてたり、ビデオゲームをしていたのでこういう形で音楽を作れて光栄です。ポケモンのビデオゲームの効果音や楽曲をサンプリングしたのでその辺を注目しながら是非聴いてください。」

YouTube Clip - 1999 - Michael Kaneko

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doBQt7zOXog

Pokémon Music Collective CD's:

The Pokémon Music Collective, which includes Michael Kaneko's 1999, imase's Utau, ENHYPEN's One and Only, and other songs scheduled to be released through this project, will be released on September 27th, 2023 as both physical CD's and in digital download format. The Limited Edition physical CD will include a Blu-ray disc containing music videos, a special all-color photo booklet that introduces the artists and songs of the Pokémon Music Collective in more detail, and a Pokémon Music Collective logo sticker.

Sources: https://www.universal-music.co.jp/pokemon-music-collective/news/2023-08-02-2/ and https://store.universal-music.co.jp/product/uice4003/

Korean KPOP group members Ni-ki, Jay, and Jungwon revealed during their live stream on June 29th, 2023 that ENHYPEN had collaborated with Pokémon to record a song and produce a music video. The Pokémon Company then announced on June 30th, 2023 that Pokémon x ENHYPEN One and Only would be released as part of the Pokémon Music Collective. The teaser will be released on July 5th, 2023 ahead of the song and music video which will release on July 12th, 2023.

Sources: https://enhypen-jp.weverse.io/news/detail.php?nid=UGT57dgUQaA= and https://discord.com/channels/270410630496911361/270410630496911361/1124350458962661489

YouTube Clip - Pokémon X ENHYPEN (엔하이픈) 'One and Only' Official Teaser

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lkb-OUSI37E

YouTube Clip - Pokémon X ENHYPEN (엔하이픈) 'One and Only' Official MV

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJsZTiYnRgI

Credits:

BAKERS
Executive Producer : KWON YOUNG MIN
Main Producer : MOON YUN
Producer : DO YEDAM
Producer : SEO JONGWOOK

STUDIO SACCHARIN
Director : KWON YONGSOO
1st AD : YOU WONSIK
2st AD : SON SEOYOUNG
Editor : KWON HEEGYEONG
Assistant Editor : KIM CHAEHYUN
Director of photography : IHM CHIHOON
Gaffer : KWON HOONHO
Art Director : PARK SEOYOUNG
DI : COLOUR LUCID
Colorist : KWAK HAEWON

LENNON STUDIO
2D Supervisor : YANG SEUNGBIN
VFX Supervisor : KO SUNGUK
Producer : HAM EUNJUNG

On Sunday, June 18th, 2023 at 5:55 p.m. JST, the Pokémon Mini Concert by NHK Symphony Orchestra Members in Koriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture was broadcast live on the YouTube channel Pokémon Kids TV! Let's enjoy the wonderful music with Pikachu and Lucky! 200 people could attend in person with free seats being available via a lottery.

YouTube Clip - Pokémon Mini Concert in Koriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture ~String Quartet by NHK Symphony Orchestra~ (ポケモンミニコンサートin福島県郡山市～N響メンバーによる弦楽四重奏〜)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rfqA6zw1hE

Musicians:

NHK Symphony Orchestra members
Violin Koichi Yokomizo, Yuki Naoi (ヴァイオリン 横溝耕一、猶井悠樹)
Viola Satoshi Ono (ヴィオラ 小野聡)
Cello Kaeko Mukoyama (former NHK Symphony Orchestra principal player) (チェロ 向山佳絵子(元N響首席奏者))

Source: https://www.pokemon.jp/special/pokemonminiconcert/

The Pokémon Company in cooperation with the NHK Symphony Orchestra, Japan's leading orchestra, have announced they will hold a special concert with a full orchestra on Thursday, August 10th, 2023. Children who love Pokémon, Pokémon fans, as well as fans of the NHK Symphony Orchestra, will be treated to familiar pieces from the Pokémon games and small classical pieces from around the world at the Pacifico Yokohama which is also the location of the Pokémon World Championships 2023.


Tickets cost 3,000 yen each but all ticket proceeds from the concert will be donated to the Pokémon with You Foundation (https://www.pokemon-foundation.or.jp/) to be used for disaster relief activities for children, support activities for children's cafeterias, and ICT education support activities. The concert will also be streamed on the official Pokémon YouTube channel for free.

Details:

Date: Thursday, August 10th, 2023
Artist: NHK Symphony Special Orchestra (NHK交響楽団スペシャルオーケストラ)
Conductor: Akito Hiraishi (NHK Symphony Orchestra Conducting Fellow) 平石章人（N響指揮研究員）
Venue: Pacifico Yokohama National Grand Hall
Price: 3,000 yen in-person, Free stream on YouTube

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000504.000026665.html

YouTube Clip - Part 1

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTccUfRR1MQ

YouTube Clip - Part 2

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bs1yyGtakCM