N-M Chapters 1280 and 1289: Double the stars, double the fun!!
Chapters 1280 and 1289: Double the stars, double the fun!!
Chapters 1280 and 1289: Double the stars, double the fun!!
Akina appeared very excited when she arrived at Yokohama Arena for an advance rehearsal.
On the already set-up stage, they searched for camera positions, measuring distances with their footsteps, communicating with staff, standing in the spotlight looking down at the empty seats when the spotlight came on, and singing into the microphone when the music started.
"Akina-chan is a natural-born stage performer! In Japan, she even has stage presence that rivals Michael Jackson!"
Seeing this scene, Terabayashi Akira, standing next to Nagayama Naoki, couldn't help but sigh.
Terahina Akira has extensive connections in the American music industry, and he was also the one who facilitated this collaboration, which is why he came along.
He looked at Naoki Nagayama and said something with a hint of regret:
"She was married by Naoki-san!"
"."
Naoki Nagayama was speechless. "Why don't you go ask Akina whether she prefers marrying me or being on stage?"
"Mr. Terahina, Akina's current confidence and radiance come from the strength she has gained from her family and love!"
If it weren't for Naoki Nagayama, Akina Nakamori might still be a puppet controlled by her agency and the media—exquisite and perfect, but lacking vitality in her eyes.
"whispering sound"
Regardless, Terabayashi Akira was the one who discovered Akina before she even debuted, so I always felt that Naoki Nagayama stole his treasure.
Just as the two men were arguing and disliking each other by the side of the stage, a commotion came from behind the stage.
In just a few breaths, a dark-skinned man in casual clothes walked over, surrounded by admirers.
"Michael Jackson has arrived?"
Terahina Akira was somewhat surprised.
"Didn't you just get off the plane?"
Saying this, she still beckoned Nagayama Naoki to go forward and greet her, since Nagayama Naoki was Akina's translator this time.
"Mr. Jackson, welcome to Yokohama."
Terahina Akira must have met Michael Jackson before, because he didn't seem too awkward when he went up to greet him.
"How did you get to the performance venue so quickly?"
"Mr. Terahayashi, I'm not tired. I just want to familiarize myself with the performance venue as soon as possible."
Michael Jackson said with a smile,
"But I think I hear someone singing already?"
"That's our Nakamori Akina; she's rehearsing."
As he spoke, Terahina Akira led Michael Jackson toward the stage, introducing Naoki Nagayama who was standing next to him.
"By the way, this is Naoki Nagayama, and he's Akina Nakamori's translator!"
"Hello, Mr. Jackson!"
Naoki Nagayama extended his hand and shook hands with the pop king in front of him.
At this time, Michael Jackson's vitiligo was not so severe, and he had not had nose surgery, so he looked completely like a typical African American, and he had a hearty laugh!
"Director Naoki Nagayama!!!"
Michael Jackson shook hands with obvious surprise, then glanced at his translator, Komatsu Sorachi, and said...
"I heard about you from Mr. Komatsu, and it's truly amazing! I never expected a famous director to be a translator!"
"Akina is my wife, and there's a saying, 'Happy wife, happy life!'"
"Haha~ That's absolutely right!"
Michael Jackson laughed, finding the person in front of him very humorous and in line with American cultural tastes.
As they walked and talked, they arrived at the side of the stage.
I happened to see Akina singing and moving around the stage, even incorporating some dance moves. Bathed in the spotlight, she seemed to radiate vibrant energy.
"Wow. Is this the singer I'm going to collaborate with tomorrow?"
Michael Jackson's face was full of admiration at this moment.
"Excellent stage presence!"
"Hi, this is Nakamori Akina!"
Terahina Akira's face was filled with pride.
"He is the best idol star in Japan!"
“I had seen some of her records and albums before this,” Michael Jackson said. “Although I don’t understand Japanese very well, each of her records and albums has a different style, and she is a very versatile artist.”
"Yes, Akina's style is very versatile."
As the group was talking, the music on stage ended. Akina turned around to look for Nagayama Naoki, only to find a large group of people standing next to the stage.
I immediately felt a little flustered:
"Naoki mulberry, Terabinerari mulberry."
“Ah, Akina,” Naoki Nagayama explained to Akina, “Mr. Michael Jackson arrived early to familiarize himself with the stage.”
“Nice to meet you!” Michael Jackson extended his hand as well. “Akina? Right?”
"Nice to meet you, too~"
Akina smiled and shook hands with Michael Jackson. Although she spoke English a little slowly, it was at a level where she could communicate directly.
Then came a brief exchange of pleasantries, talking about their flight journey that day and how they rushed over to rehearse.
"Akina, Mr. Komatsu said your English might not be at a level where you could communicate, but now it seems you speak very well!"
"I hired the best teacher!"
Upon hearing this, Akina smiled and gestured to Naoki Nagayama beside her.
"Haha, I see~"
Michael Jackson smiled and expressed his understanding, saying he was somewhat envious of the couple's harmonious relationship.
It's important to understand that for artists of their caliber, finding a harmonious and lasting intimate relationship is often difficult.
After chatting for so long, Michael Jackson's team finally finalized the rehearsal arrangements and informed Michael that he could start warming up. The band and everything else were ready, and even the backup dancers had arrived.
"Akina, how about we treat this as a rehearsal and you join in?"
Michael Jackson said that the final rehearsal would actually be done before going on stage tomorrow, and usually, guests like Akina would rehearse at that time.
"Hi, no problem!"
Although she didn't have a dance costume, she was only singing one song, so her current attire didn't matter much.
"Alright, let's begin!"
Naoki Nagayama, Akira Terahashi, and members of Michael Jackson's team were all seated in the first row below the stage, acting as spectators.
Watching a celebrity concert rehearsal feels like having the whole venue to yourself. After all, aside from changing costumes, everything—music, dance, lighting, singing—is up to the same standard as on stage, making it feel like the celebrity is performing just for you.
Michael Jackson performed his most famous songs, "Thriller" and "Beat It," on stage. His signature moonwalk and the distinctive and charismatic stage presence amazed Naoki Nagayama, who was watching from below.
If they're already this excited in this environment, imagine how electrifying the atmosphere will be when the venue is packed with audience members during the actual performance!
When it came time to perform "I JUST CAN'T STOP LOVEING YOU", Akina finally went on stage!
Naoki Nagayama's eyes widened.
Akina even went to the trouble of putting on makeup!! She looked even more radiant than during rehearsal!
"When did you come out? You didn't bring any cosmetics with you!"
Naoki Nagayama's quiet complaint was overheard by Akira Terabayashi, who smiled slightly.
"Naoki-san, you didn't know, did you? Akina makes friends really fast, you know. Maybe she even borrowed them from Michael Jackson's team!"
"."
Seeing Terabayashi Akira's expression, as if he had finally won, Naoki Nagayama shook his head. This middle-aged man really does treat Akina like a daughter.
"Would you like to have dinner together later tonight?"
Naoki Nagayama asked Sorachi Komatsu, who was also a translator,
"Or does Michael have other plans?"
"Mr. Jackson will be holding a press conference at the hotel tonight."
Komatsu Sorachi said,
"It's already arranged, so I might not be able to leave."
“That’s a real shame.” Naoki Nagayama shook his head. “Akina and I found a great restaurant this afternoon and were planning to treat Michael to a proper meal.”
"There will be opportunities later. Mr. Jackson's trip to Japan will last for more than a month, during which he will hold a total of 14 concerts in various places, including Tokyo."
"There are indeed many opportunities."
Just then, Terahina Akira spoke again:
"Naoki-san, Akina can also participate in the press conference. It will greatly help Akina's exposure and popularity."
"This"
Terahina Akira continued:
"We came here to participate in the choir performance, so it's only natural that we promote together. Actually, it wasn't arranged before because Akina was going to be with Naoki-san."
"That's it~"
Naoki Nagayama didn't dwell on it too much.
"Alright then, I'll participate. But we need to avoid the media and reporters; that'll require Terahina's arrangements!"
"Of course."
Because there are no changes of clothes or interaction with the audience, and sometimes the singing is not even complete, the rehearsal speed is much faster than the actual performance.
The rehearsal, which was originally more than two hours long, was shortened by half, and ended before it got completely dark.
Akina, who only sang one song, naturally came down early to enjoy the pop star's performance with Naoki Nagayama.
After the meeting, Terabayashi Akira and the opposing team exchanged ideas for a while and reached an agreement that Akina would also be present at the press conference.
Michael Jackson was also very happy when he found out:
"I thought we wouldn't have time to chat anymore, but I didn't expect we could go to the hotel together. By the way, are Akina and Naoki also at our hotel?"
“No, we’re at the New Grand Hotel,” Naoki Nagayama said. “It’s a bit of a distance from the stadium.”
"Why aren't you staying at the same hotel as Terabayashi Akira?"
Michael Jackson was surprised to learn that the other staff members on the Japanese side were all staying in a hotel not far from the stadium for work convenience.
"Forehead"
You can't say the hotel isn't up to standard.
Although Michael Jackson was undoubtedly an international superstar, and his wealth was only slightly less than that of Naoki Nagayama, he had to stay in the same hotel as his staff for the convenience of his concerts.
"Because there are so many people coming to Yokohama for the concert, the hotel is already full."
Naoki Nagayama explained,
"So Akina and I had to book other hotels."
"..." Terahina Akira curled her lips.
However, Michael Jackson did not doubt it; on the contrary, he was quite understanding. During his world tours, he sometimes encountered situations where luxury hotels were fully booked.
"After the press conference, Naoki-san and I will invite Michael to dinner!"
Akina opened her mouth and said,
"I've already booked an authentic restaurant."
"Michael came straight to rehearsal after getting off the plane; he needs to rest tonight."
Just as Komatsu Sorachi was about to politely decline on Michael Jackson's behalf, he saw Michael Jackson shake his head, and then he himself nodded to Nakamori Akina and Nagayama Naoki:
"Great! I've been wanting to experience the most authentic Japanese food culture!"
"Then it's a deal!"
Akina smiled and gave Michael a high five.
The hotel where Michael Jackson was staying was already packed with people.
Media reporters who had received the news naturally gathered at the hotel entrance early on, while fans who had somehow gotten wind of it also flocked together, eager to catch a glimpse of their idol.
This resulted in Michael Jackson and Naoki Nagayama's group arriving and being unable to drive their cars in. In the end, the security team had to forcefully clear a path for them to get through.
"Michael! Michael! Michael!!!" "It really is him!" "He's here!"
Michael Jackson may not have understood all of the Japanese, but he certainly felt the enthusiasm of these fans.
Keen-eyed fans became even more excited after spotting Akina Nakamori in the group!
Some fans came to the concert specifically because of Akina Nakamori!
One is an international superstar, and the other is the most popular local idol. This occasion and this scene are double the joy of being a fan!
"Akina Nakamori!" "Akina! Akina!!" "Your Highness Akina!!" "Akina is the best!" "."
Some people were chanting Michael Jackson's name, while others were chanting Akina Nakamori's name. The chants were surprisingly evenly matched, and in some cases, the number of people chanting Akina's name was even slightly stronger. This is probably what home-field advantage means!
So in Japan, Akina's popularity might really be comparable to Michael Jackson's!
Seeing so many reporters and fans, the organizers didn't intend to delay. They set up a human wall at the hotel entrance, had all the reporters' cameras and microphones put away, and then started the press conference immediately.
Amidst a flurry of flashes and shutter clicks, Michael Jackson was the first to step forward:
"Everyone, konnichiwa."
It's standard practice for celebrities to greet people in the local language when they visit a new place.
However, Michael Jackson's greeting in Japanese still made the crowd erupt in cheers and applause, but naturally, he switched to English afterwards.
"I'm so happy to be in Japan. In such a short time, I've already felt the enthusiasm of the Japanese fans!"
"The concert is tomorrow, and I hope to give everyone the best performance on stage!"
Just then, Michael Jackson suddenly remembered something and made room for Akina Nakamori to step forward.
"By the way, this is my partner for tomorrow. Akina hopes our duet will bring everyone a unique experience!"
Good evening, everyone!
The appearance of Akina Nakamori naturally gave the reporters another boost of their enthusiasm!
"It's a great pleasure to perform on the same stage as Mr. Michael Jackson. I will do my best!"
"I hope to bring you the best performance tomorrow!"
Hearing what another idol said, the cheers from the fan group grew even louder!
Next, under the guidance of the host, the media reporters had a few interview opportunities. The reporters raised their hands one after another, and their eyes clearly showed their intention to "choose me, choose me"!
The host randomly selected someone~
"Mr. Jackson, how many days will you be staying in Japan for this tour? Do you have any sightseeing plans?"
Michael Jackson smiled and said:
"This tour will take about a month in Japan; the specific itinerary can be found in the concert promotions. As for sightseeing? We might tour some local cities after the performances, but there are no specific plans yet."
Are they available in Yokohama?
"As for Yokohama," Michael Jackson glanced at Akina Nakamori and Naoki Nagayama beside him, "Akina and Director Nagayama will show me around and let me experience the local culture."
"Akina?!"
The reporters immediately turned to Akina Nakamori, and some cameramen even pointed their lenses at Naoki Nagayama, who had been standing behind her as a background figure.
They suddenly remembered that this person was also a focal point!
Tonight, three top celebrities have gathered at the entrance of this luxury hotel—how rare!
"Akina-chan, where are you taking Michael Jackson tonight?" "What for?" "Will you go to a brothel?" "Baka! What nonsense are you talking about?!" *Crackling sound* "..."
A talkative reporter got punched by a colleague and sent to the sidelines.
"Let's go eat a special meal in Yokohama," Akina replied.
"Excuse me, where is this place?"
"It's not convenient to talk about that."
"Can you take us with you?"
"."
A free meal? Not only Nakamori Akina, but other reporters also looked at their colleague who asked the question in surprise. How shameless!
But in an instant, the reporters' eyes were all fixed on Akina Nakamori and Michael Jackson. If they could be together, that would be an exclusive story!
"Of course not!"
As an entertainer, Akina couldn't directly refuse, so Naoki Nagayama quickly stepped in to respond, his tone decisive as he looked at the hopeful eyes around them.
"This restaurant is very expensive! We don't accept freebies!"
"!!!" "???" "."
The reporters were momentarily speechless. "If you're going to make an excuse, at least make one! Is this about money?!"
Because several questions were asked in Japanese, Michael Jackson, who was standing next to him, didn't understand them at first. He only saw that the media reporters had become quiet and wondered if something had happened!
The host quickly continued the proceedings:
"There's one last question!! You can ask it!"
The last lucky reporter glanced at Michael Jackson and prepared to do something big:
"Mr. Jackson, why didn't you ever consider holding a concert in China?!"
When Naoki Nagayama heard this question, he suddenly felt that it was very familiar.
Oh, right, it seems many marketing accounts have mentioned this example in later generations, saying that Michael Jackson said he had been to Taiwan, and Taiwan is also part of China.
But in fact, Michael Jackson has never even been to Taiwan! How can you say that?!
However, Michael Jackson was quite candid:
"I've always wanted to go to China; I'm very curious about Chinese culture. Unfortunately, there's no opportunity to hold a concert in mainland China at the moment."
"However, after my tour in Japan, I will go to Hong Kong, the Pearl of the Orient!"
"."
Naoki Nagayama was slightly moved as he listened to Michael Jackson's words.
In this era, Hong Kong was not only a financial center, but also played a role in promoting Chinese culture to the world.
Western countries' initial impressions of modern Chinese culture likely originated from Hong Kong.
After Michael Jackson answered the question, the press conference was considered to be over, but the crowd did not disperse at all; instead, even more people came to see him.
Originally there was only Michael Jackson, but now there's also Akina Nakamori, doubling the appeal!
Ultimately, the group had no choice but to retreat into the hotel and then leave through an inconspicuous side door. Naoki Nagayama took Michael Jackson to the restaurant they had already booked.
However, at this moment, Terahina Akira, looking out the car window at the ever-growing crowd, was somewhat worried:
"I wonder if this group will disperse."
“In any case, I won’t be staying in the hotel the whole time,” Naoki Nagayama said. “I can always come back in the middle of the night!”
"Hotel security should be fine, right?"
"That's hard to say. There's a good chance some sasaeng fans might think Akina is staying at this hotel too."
"Forehead"
Naoki Nagayama shrugged.
"Never mind, the road will straighten itself when it reaches the end."
If all else fails, we can just find another hotel when we get back after dinner. Do you think we can't find a different hotel if we have the money?!
(End of this chapter)