Kanjani8's Murakami Shingo “We’re learning from NYC”

7 member group from Johnny’s Jimusho, Kanjani8 attended the press conference announcing their first participation in this festival competition.

Murakami Shingo (30), “I never thought we’d be able one day to stand in such a big stage for the first time. This year we were able to celebrate our 8th anniversary, even now we’re holding a tour and our performance on the 31st is under our New Year’s Eve tour schedule. Among members we’ve talked about how happy we are to complete this year with an event such as Kouhaku. Even though we still have no plan for that day we want to deliver energy and courage to Japan”, he said full of joy.

The news of their appearance was revealed to them only one day before the press, “There was always a strong wish to appear but we’re still in a state of confusion”, they said like dreaming.

In addition to Kanjani8, the agency will participate with 4 more groups; SMAP, TOKIO, Arashi and NYC. “There’s a lot we need to learn from NYC, when it comes to Kouhaku they are dai-senpai to us so we have to participate with a fresh feeling”.

On this day, member Maruyama Ryuhei was celebrating his 29th birthday. “Awesome! This is a birthday like no other. I’m extremely happy. Thank you very much”, he added full of joy.

[Sponichi] via jenewsdaily