～Onlyyoujin～

Singer and actor Jin Akanishi is training in sword fighting 
for his role in the American film “47 Ronin,”
 which stars Keanu Reeves.

Over two years after pursuing a solo career 
and breaking away from his role as lead vocalist 
in the Japanese boy band KAT-TUN, 
Japan’s Jin Akanishi is making a splash in the United States.

One of Akanishi’s first pursuits as a solo artist 
was the 2010 Japanese movie “Bandage,” 
where he honed his acting chops in a starring role 
and lent his voice to the theme track.

With his signature long locks and snazzy style, 
Akanishi in 2010 tested his stardom overseas with his first U.S. tour, 
which sold out tickets in venues nationwide.

This year in November Akanishi released the single 
and music video “Test Drive,” after signing with Warner Music Group in 2010. 
The pop single features Jason Derulo.

In what will likely further his star power even more in the U.S., 
Akanishi was cast in the role of Chikara in the 2012 film “47 Ronin,” 
starring Keanu Reeves. The film is based on the popular Japanese 
18th century tale of a group of samurai who avenge the forced suicide, 
or seppuku, of their leader. Enlisted in the movie are other Japanese cast 
members like Ko Shibasaki, Hiroyuki Sanada, 
Tadanobu Asano and Rinko Kikuchi.

Before that movie hits theaters, Akanishi will ring in the New Year 
by giving back to his fans. The Japanese star will hold 
a “fan appreciation” day Jan. 6, which will be held at the Yokohama Arena in Japan. 
The 12,000-seat venue sold out for the day. The event, which includes performances 
from his new album and a Q & A session hosted by Paul “PK” Kim, 
will be live streamed at 5 p.m. PST at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles.

The Pacific Citizen caught up with Akanishi — who was packing his bags 
and returning to Japan for the event — to talk about his success 
as an international star and his samurai training for the film “47 Ronin.”

You released on Nov. 8 your U.S. single “Test Drive,” 
which also features singer and songwriter Jason Derulo. 
Have you been surprised at all of the positive attention 
the song is getting on YouTube?

It’s always extremely exciting when any song of mine is well received by the public, 
and especially by my fans. For this particular song, 
since it’s the first song released as part of my U.S. debut, 
I’m even more appreciative of all the love and attention it’s getting.

How does performing music in the U.S. compare to performing in Japan?

Well, in Japan I usually perform in larger venues 
that seat around 10,000. In the U.S., we’re keeping it more intimate, 
so around 1,000 to 2,500 since I’m still building my fan base.

What is something your fans would be surprised to know about you?

I love fashion. I’m really enjoying meshing the style 
in Japan with the U.S. fashion trends.

What are five things you cannot live without when traveling on tour?

My hats/beanies, iced coffee (lots of it), sunglasses, 
laptop (for my music) and iPhone (to listen to music).

Can you tell me about your role as 
Chikara in the upcoming movie “47 Ronin”?

I’m a samurai, one of the “47 Ronin.” I play the son of the leader of the group. 
I am basically the only one that understands Keanu’s character, 
Kai, since he’s considered an outsider. So we are together a lot. 
During down time, we would play Shogi, and Japanese chess — a lot. 
He’s very comfortable to be around.

What has it been like to work with Keanu Reeves?

He’s a cool guy. He really makes the working atmosphere comfortable. 
Definitely helped keep me from being nervous.

Why do you think it’s important that “47 Ronin” utilizes a Japanese cast 
rather than Asian American actors?

It’s definitely a tale that the Japanese people have heard growing up, 
and the film/story really tries to honor it. So, I was happy that 
they maintained the integrity of it by casting more of a Japanese cast.

Have you had to do any special samurai training for your role? 
Was that a challenge for you?

I had sword training, and definitely worked out more than usual. 
It was intense, but fun at the same time.

How do you unwind from your busy work schedule?

Just hanging out with friends and eating some good food. 
I really like Korean BBQ here.

Tell us about some of your other projects that you are working on? 
What can we expect to see from you next?

I’m currently working on my U.S. album, 
which will be out in early March 2012.
 I’ll also tour the U.S. next year for the new album,
 then Japan and after that Asia.

What are your future dreams as far as 
furthering your entertainment career in the U.S.?

I just want to be making music for as long as I can. 
I’ve been given this great opportunity to crossover to the U.S., 
and I’m so excited to be able to share my music and style with more people. 
Ultimately, I would love to keep making music in Japan as well as the U.S.

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哇！這篇關於電影的訪談好長呢～～～^^
還提到說，明年三月初會發行美國專輯，
然後明年除了有美國巡迴，
還會有日本、接著是亞洲巡迴啊！！！＞／／＜