| Pink Lady |
The story of this legendary Japanese pop duo is one with two parts. It starts when two young high school girls (Mi and Kay ) are scouted out at a TV talent audition in 1976. During the audition the two would-be singers showed their talent for harmonies and overall cuteness. They were immediately signed by a record company, which would lead them down the road to becoming Pink Lady. However it wasn't easy at first. As was the case with many idols during that period, they underwent rigorous vocal and stage training and were at the mercy of their record company as to what they did on a daily basis. They were even the last ones to know what their stage name would be when they debuted. The duo was set up with one of the best production teams of that period and debuted as Pink Lady with the single "Pepper Keibu"(Captain Pepper). This was only six months after being signed and the song was a major hit. It was the beginning of a string of million seller hits for the duo with songs like UFO, Carmen77, S.O.S, and more. One of the key's to Pink Lady's popularity was their stage presence. Although not incredible singers they moved well on stage and were very good at connecting with the crowd. Their popularity continued to grow and even caught the eye of talent agencies overseas in America. It was eventually decided that Pink Lady would try to make a go of it in the States. They were off to good start by appearing as guests on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. Afterwards they became regulars on other TV variety shows, but never really seemed to breakout. They returned to Japan and after Mi expressed the need to have more of a private life, Pink Lady offically said farewell to the spotlight in 1981 at their final sold out concert. However, the story does not end here. It is just beginning. After seperating Kay and Mi moved down different roads. With both trying a hand at less than remarkable solo careers. It would not have been unusual for them to disappear and become a simple footnote in the history of J-Pop. But something happened. Instead of totally falling out of the spotlight, Pink Lady gained a kind of cult following in Japan. With fans keeping their memory alive. Flash almost 30 years later, to 2003. Mi and Kay are asked if they would like to do a Pink Lady reunion tour. Both women now in their mid 40s (although they dont look it) are hesitant, mainly because they are not sure if people would be interested. They agree to try and their first concert is a sold-out hit, filled with old and new fans alike. They havent looked back since then. Today's Pink Lady is different from 30 years ago. They are in control of their act now, not a record company. Their stage dances are much more rigorous than before. With each routine looking like a mini-aerobics session (complete with costume changes), but not too complicated that fans can't join in and dance along as they watch the show. Now in 2005, Pink Lady is on another grueling national tour, which they say will be their last. After reconnecting with their past and their fans they will say goodbye once again. However, this time they will leave on their terms, after giving all they have for their music and the people who helped to make them legends in the J-pop world. |
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