February 2006 Newsmaker Chapter 1
^^; It suddenly feels weird, awkward even, to post a translation after such a long absence. After much poking (and stabbing and jabbing and whacking and mushing XD), here is the translation for Newsmaker Feb issue.
It's divided into three chapters, and I'll post chapter one first whie I wait for help for the other two. It isn't a long article, they talk about three things: GIFT, ASIA and the TOUR. I thought the most interesting one is the one on Asia. After hearing so much about it and knowing how much he has planned for it, I'm really excited that it's happening. ^^~
I'll let you read it yourself, and I hope you'll enjoy it. :D
1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?
[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview
Gackt - A man who puts his life on the line to continue the fight, even to the extent of declaring, “I’ll retire if I can’t accomplish this.” And thus a raging 2005 passes. Now he already has his eyes fixed on year 2006, no, even much further than that. What’s truly spurring him on? It’s the mission he has placed on himself; as well as the dream that must be accomplished. What is in his mind and what is he aiming for now? This cover article will discuss (lit.draw near, press) Gackt’s real intention.
Gackt CHAPTER.1
Look back on 2005
Long interview
In 2005, Gackt challenged himself more than he usually does, and also took on new challenges outside. [1] In this article I would like to focus on the keywords “GIFT”, ASIA”, and “Fighting”.
[1] I believe he means moving outside, out of Japan.
GIFT
2005 began with the release of “ありったけの愛で” (arittake no ai de) single. This opening was a continuation of the “GIFT” theme from the previous year; and under the same theme, the “Love Letter” album, which you could consider the compilation of the theme, was released. And with that ends the "GIFT" theme, but……
"This one single word, “省く”, can sum up all of one’s life"
I: Along with the release of “Love Letter” album, a special event limited to couples was held, and a ski resort was reserved for the fan club trip and a Winter Sports Meet held. As for the annual overseas fan club trip, you went to Sydney for the first time, didn’t you? The opening of the year 2005 sees a continuation of GIFTs for fans from Gackt-san.
G: It started from me saying, “I’ve started snowboarding,” while I was doing a tour two years ago. I said during one of the live MC, “Let’s go play snowboarding together in a fan club event.” Since I said it during the MC, I would be deemed a liar if I don’t follow through. I searched (for a place) immediately after that, but there is no way we can book the whole slope for weekends, right? Because it takes a lot of money to even book half a day.
I: Ooh
G: I thought, “It’s impossible!” But there was someone I became friends with by chance, and he is the owner of a ski resort. I told him, “Actually, I would like to do something like this…” and I persuaded him to help me make it happen somehow. Well, it was a relief. First and foremost, I was glad I could keep my promise.
I: And what about going to Sydney?
G: That’s our annual overseas fan club trip. The first and second year was in Hawaii; third year was Vegas; and the fourth year this time was Sydney.
I: Have you been to Sydney before?
G: No, it was my first time. It is a great place. So basically, (the annual fancub trips) will be places I’ve never been to. Halfway through I started thinking of going to places which everyone won’t go to normally. It was Hawaii at first, but I think everybody can go there themselves. From now on, I think I would like to visit less popular places one by one.
I: Like the North Pole or South Pole?
G: Or the Amazon. (laughs) Hawaii is better in that case. They know Japanese language and the security is good. But that depends on the organizers; it’s not up to me. Everybody tends to do things the easy way. [1] I think I found a good word recently. This one single word can sum up all of one’s life. It is the word “省く”. This word “省” can sum up one’s entire life.
[1] I believe what he meant was that the organizers/sponsors just want to find easy and convenient places, maybe because it’s easier to handle procedures and things like that. And also for security reasons of course. So the problem doesn’t lie with him.
I: How so?
G: The first (meaning) is to reflect (省みる kaerimiru). But reflecting on (your past actions) is only fifty percent of it. It becomes one hundred percent if you are capable of the act of discarding (省く habuku)[1] in your life. In short, it is the way we look back, reflect and introspect. Then we will feel various emotions within ourselves. And sometimes we need to cast those aside, and courage is needed to do that. [2] If we do not have the courage, we will not be able to cast it away. Because we fear it; because there is the fear of losing. Being able to do that -to discard- is the first step to living. [3] That's what this word means. It’s a great word. I think that is really how I managed to reach this point now.
[1] 省く habuku: to omit; to eliminate; to curtail; to economize; to economize
[2] When we reflect on our actions, or even our life in general, we’ll discover and feel something. Negative emotions, perhaps. We know it isn’t right, and even so, we can’t bear to put it aside. We cling on to it. So we need great courage to let it go and release ourselves from the restrain we have placed on ourselves. Edit: kuro_no_diablo gave a good explanation of this part on the comments below, if you are interested. :D Thanks!
[3] The original sentence goes "That's the first time (this) becomes life"
I: Indeed, the act of casting something away takes a lot of courage.
G: It’s not because it is painful that we cast it aside. I think that’ll be more like running away. Throw it away not because it’s troublesome or anything like that, but under our own determination (to better ourselves). The act of casting something away is indeed dreaded (lit. hated), isn’t it? There is also a fear of hurting someone through it. Courage is needed. One needs to be decisive. Well, I don’t think there are many who can understand this meaning. When I saw that word, I thought it had a deep (meaning). I was a little touched.
I: Where did you read it from?
G: Something like “Wise Sayings of the day”.
I: Could it be something like different aphorisms you read every day?
G: Yes, yes, something like that.
I: And finally, this theme known as the GIFT. How did you feel about ending this theme?
G: With a feeling of gratitude, I will be moving even faster from this point, so “follow me closely now”.
ASIA
It can be said that the year 2005 for Gackt is a year which focuses on Asia, Korea in particular. Along with the release of “Love Letter” album, he also went to Korea to do promotions. He was invited to the biggest music event held in the country, “m,net/Km MUSIC VIDEO FESTIVAL”, at the end of the year 2004, and was awarded the Best Asia Rock Artist. The Korean version of “12月のLove song” [12 gatsu no Love song] was recorded that year as a coupling of the single which was released annually. [1] And for year 2005, he re-recorded the collaboration version in Korean language with popular Korean artist, Isoo, vocalist of MC the MAX. This song is currently released through Gackt’s first - and only - net distribution.
[1] He released the original Japanese version in December 2001, and since then he has released the English, Chinese and Korean version at the end of each year. Normally the singles comes with a revised Japanese version, the version in other language, and the instrumental version.
"What I can do is to further strengthen the relationship between Asia through the influence of music culture"
I: Year 2005 was a year which focuses on Asia, in particular Korea.
G: That’s right. But well, it’s not that I’m only looking at Korea alone, because I plan to move around the whole of Asia: Taiwan, China, Singapore, as well as Malaysia, Indonesia, etc. I am currently planning my activities as a vocalist in Asia.
I: When you said “vocalist in Asia”, was it something you realized when you are making music?
G: It was when I was 20 years old, that was when I came to the realization that I’m Asian.
I: And what brought that about?
G: I don’t know what exactly it was. I am Okinawan and am extremely proud of that. When someone asks, “Are you Japanese,” I would reply that I’m Okinawan. But when I came out to Asia, I realized that this is not right. Based on Japan’s position in Asia, Japanese very much think that other Asian countries are beneath them, right? Yet here we are, so near to each other. Perhaps, if we ask any Japanese about say, (which countries they view as) “overseas”, most would definitely think of America first rather than China, Vietnam or Malaysia, etc. We are mentally close to each other. We are all Asians. I believe the economy centers around Asia as well. And Japan’s economy is already declining in Asia. Though Japan has been standing on the top of Asia till now, Asian countries are now starting to bypass Japan, and that is one of the reasons for this decline. Even so, there are still a lot of people in Japan who live in the old “syndrome”, as if the economy of Asia still depend on them to survive.
I: We think too highly of ourselves.
G: But it doesn’t work that way anymore. If we don’t pace ourselves with the Asian countries, Japan itself won’t last. We look at Asia as one whole entity and we come into contact with (each other) in this huge framework called Asia economy. In short, we have to come to terms with the current situation. It is a fact that the power of America is growing too large currently. The strength to fight that more as best as we can, as well as an influential voice is necessary for Asia. But not through force, mind you. For that purpose, it is important that Japan, China and Korea step up side by side as one economy. But Japan still thinks too highly of herself and fails to understand that. I think it is pertinent that we understand our current state. While Japanese are thinking over it, other Asian countries are already moving ahead first.
I: Korea, for one, is growing fast.
G: They are growing rapidly. And we are the only ones who aren’t aware of that. Other countries have felt the danger and started to act on it.
I: As for that, I think Gackt-san senses that danger precisely because you really felt the atmosphere in other Asian countries. For example, you went to Korea quite a few times already, right?
G: I did. Recently I’ve been meeting politicians from China, Korea and Taiwan often.
I: What kind of conversation did you have?
G: The reason I’m making music, the reason I’m doing them overseas, etc., and in between there are talks about sponsors and things like that. Mostly those kinds of conversations. First I tell them, “I’m not coming to do promotions.” I said that the influence of culture is necessary right now to unite Asia and so I would like them to lend me their strength.
I: Well then, it’s not simply because you want to do a live, but in a deeper sense, you are advancing towards Asia with a mission in mind.
G: I do think about that. A lot. I do it with that in mind because I won’t be able to move on if I don’t. If I go there simply to do a live, it will only be a matter of bringing our music instruments and the band members over, and asking (the staff in Korea) to put the stage together. [1] What I plan to do is completely different from that. I’m going there to show them the world view that we are looking at. Our world view is the message. I have no interest in promotions; I’m doing this only because I feel it as a mission of sorts, that I’m meant to do something to bridge Asia.
[1] When Gackt holds his concerts overseas, he insists on recreating the exact same stage as the one he made in Japan. So he ships all the stage props, items and everything else there, and takes practically all the staff over with him.
I: Do you also start becoming aware of this mission when you were 20 years old?
G: No, it’s in the recent five years that I started thinking this way. Ten years ago, those were still the times when I was concerned about whether my CD will sell or not.
I: Eh! Even Gackt-san?
G: There were such times. That’s because I won’t be able to continue if my CDs don’t sell; because we can’t make a living (otherwise). But I realized in these seven, eight years that we can still earn our income through something besides music. It’s really quite a simple logic.
I: Bwahahaha! So frank (laughs)
G: In this past seven, eight years, I began to understand that we can still earn money even if we don’t play our music to make a living. I saw that we can, surprisingly, earn an income (easily) in this world. And so, I began to realize that it is not necessary at all to play music just to make a living. If I do, I would have to write songs that will become a hit, and I’m not interested in doing that. Doing that would only bring conflicts within myself eventually. (lit. conflicts, complications, trouble, discord)
I: Were there times when Gackt-san yourself experienced such conflicts?
G: There were. Around seven to eight years ago.
I: Hooo, I’m a little surprised.
G: I thought to myself that living through nothing but music makes you dependent on it. I think it was seven to eight years ago, close to nine years ago. A group of my close friends, who were in bands, were rapidly falling out of the music scene and quitting music, and and having financial troubles (lit. life became hard for them financially). All these happened before my eyes. There was such a time.
I: I see, I see
G: At that time I thought, “I see, everybody is frightened.” About not being able to make a living. We musicians give a strong impression of making lots of money, right? But in one lifetime, the period of time when we are popular (lit. respected) is amazingly short. The amount of money isn’t really that great in proportion to our lifespan. But musicians are, generally, really foolish. That is why when we receive large amounts of money, we think that this will last forever and spend it frivolously. And the interesting thing about humans is that it is easy for us to raise our standard of living but we can't lower it back down (once it has been raised). Even if we can’t sell (our music) anymore, we will not lower our standards. We suffer, are terrified of discords and worry about it dropping. That is what I saw happening with my own eyes and the first time I realized that this is what it meant by depending on music to make a living. But that is… a real shame to see [1]. I decided that I mustn’t be that way. And I look again at what “music means to me”. To me, music is (a way) to convey our message, philosophy, will; and to fulfill what I mentioned earlier on, missions and duties. I concluded then that music shouldn’t be all about earning a living or (feeding) our families.
[1] Kakkowarui - uncool, unattractive, unappealing, etc.
I: Music is separate from a way to make a living.
G: Yes. And then when I was thinking of how to make a living, it came to me. “That's right, I can earn my income by doing other jobs.” And I thought that if I set up a few different companies and make profits from there, I will not have to play music to make a living. In that case, I can use music to realize my dreams and use it as a tool to unite Asia; I can devote myself to (creating) a home to help everyone move forward (lit. push people’s back). I am a complete brand.
I: Brand?
G: Yes. (However,) if you think of the brand as something to make a profit from, it will become worthless at once. What the power of brand refers to is really the power of image. That is completely different from profits. I will do something else unrelated to me (lit. other than “me”) if I want to earn profits. “I” am a complete brand. That is why it is okay even if we get red numbers. The people who take part in this feel that it doesn’t matter as long as the brand lives on. So the tour this time will not be the scale of that of a “hall tour”, let me say that clearly.
I: Not just this time, it’s the same way for each of your concerts.
G: How (scary) the red numbers are. When artists who are planning concerts come to watch mine, they will ask, “How much did you spend?” I wonder if they aren’t trying to create such a stage as well. But they won’t be able to, because they are planning to make profits out of it. So we can invest in (such concerts) because we look at making profits separately. You won’t be able to do it if you keep thinking of makings tons of profits. That is why we can come up with such crazy things. I tell them to not get that wrong. Same goes for going to Asia which I mentioned earlier on, I’m not going there because I want to sell my CDs, but because I can do something by using this brand called “Gackt”.
I: How can you use this brand called Gackt in Asia?
G: What I can do is to further strengthen the relationship between Asia through the influence of music culture. To make it strong like it has never been before. My dream is to unite Asian citizens. I think that is what I’m meant to do.
FIGHT
After (the release of) “Love letter” which signals the end of the GIFT theme, the story revolving around “MOON” was restarted. Three singles were released followed by the album, “DIABOLOS”, making this the second album for the year 2005. The concert that was started along with the release of the album was the biggest national tour (that Gackt has) ever held and his first Tokyo Dome live will be held as the concert final. Year 2005 for Gackt can be said as (a year of) fighting grand battles.
"Only the ones who think of moving up along with me should follow"
I: You released two albums; held the largest national tour to date; and had your first Dome performance. When we were doing the keyword interview earlier on, (page.29), you said, “I’ll retire if I cannot accomplish this.” I think the year 2005 was truly a year of fighting.
G: I see myself as having missions and duties that I have to accomplish in Asia, so if I can’t do even this, I won’t be able to accomplish those missions, right? That is what I meant. I don’t use the word “retire” lightly; I do it knowing in my mind that I can clear it. And I would like my staff to think that way too. That is why I said that I would also like to determine the staff’s will/ability during the tour this time. In the end, it’s not like everybody moved along with me when I cleared something. [1] “Although I can do it by myself to this extent, I can’t go beyond that.” There are a lot of people like that, right? That isn’t something bad. For instance, being able to think that they don’t have the ability to carry on any longer also takes courage. In that way we’ve ascertained their will/ability. [2] If we don’t, it’ll be difficult for them because we’ll be pursuing more things from now. You can quit if it becomes too difficult and painful. I don’t want to work with someone (is only forcing him/herself to continue) either. Only the ones who think of moving up along with me should follow. Really, I just don’t want to think badly of my companions.
[1] It’s like when he did something successfully, not everyone made that progress along with him. As you move along to a higher level, some people get left behind or can’t catch up.
[2] He didn’t specify what it was he was testing the staff on… but I believe the reason why you can’t follow something/one is either because you don’t want to, or you just don’t have the ability to.
I: What you are saying is, you (and your staff) are aiming even higher and year 2005 was for determining how much of those (goals) you can achieve by yourselves. It was a year of fighting and determining your limit. (lit. maximum)
G: I believe they see it that way too.
Original text by: Sachie Tojo
Translated by: Sweiled
Own comments:
I think I stopped breathing for a few seconds when he mentioned Singapore and Indonesia in his plans. XD He has never been here to do promotions and the like before, so it really came as a surprise. I thought that he will tour China, Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong maybe, or Thailand... but I didn't think of my own two coutries. And more than anything, I'm truly grateful that he includes Indonesia in his plans. It's not exactly the safest or cleanest or most advised place to hold a concert in. XD I do love my country, despite its many faults and to know that he thinks it worthy enough... it brought a bit of tears. Even if it somehow falls through due to security reasons, I'm still glad that he thought of Indonesia.
/patroitism XD
It's the first time he named countries as well! Before, it was just a vague "Asia", but now it's pretty definite. Though we don't exactly know when, he IS coming. Ah, it will be grand to see him in Singapore, and also to meet up with other fans! :D That will be the day~
It is interesting to see his view on Asia economy. I don't know many artists who do that. ._. But you can really tell his love for his country and his desire to make it better. He isn't afraid to point out the faults and to admit that they have weaknesses either. Though sometimes I wonder when he has the time to think about all these. XD You need a lot of information and news about politics, the world, current economy to be able to make a proper stand, and you need a lot of time to read about all that. He gives me the impression of a black hole. Keeping his eyes open and absorbing everything that is in his way. Hehe. ^^;
Ahaha, I thought it was rather amusing that the interviewer found it hard to believe that Gackt has had such times when he couldn't sell his CDs too. It tells us something too, doesn't it? ^^ But wow, this part definitely interested me most. Haha, he sure is someone who doens't compromise. XD I thought it was bloody brilliant what he chose to do eventually. Most people would either accept the way things are done and try their best to live with it, or they move away from it, refusing to compromise their way of living. But Gackt, he carved another way out for himself. :3 In the end he got all that he wanted. The music that he loves and use to spread his messages; as well as a way to make a living.
And my bad for bringing this up again, but the thought of people calling him a media-whore... It makes me want to do some real damage to someone. XD I do think that anybody has the right to criticize others, but DON'T do it if you don't know anything about the person. And especially NOT in public places. It just makes one seem ignorant, jaded, and thoughtless. If there is anything I learned from being here, it is to not judge the book by its covers. Not everything is as they seem... And I try to keep that in mind for other artists, or even people in general, as well. I may not know them well but if others like them, then they must have positive qualities to them too, just that we aren't aware of it. :D Don't be too hasty to judge others. I think being in a fandom makes me understand that.
I admire him muchly for saying, "I am a complete brand" and then to say in the next line, "If you think of the brand as something to make a profit from, it will become worthless at once." I think he has succeeded well in finding a good balance between the two. I especially like the line "What the power of brand refers to is really the power of image." It's true too, if you look at all the TV appearances and CMs he has appeared in. I don't know how exactly to put it in words... though he makes use of it to earn his income, he doesn't sell himself and go for everything that can give him money, you know? Despite it being his way of earning money, he still chooses carefully the projects he take and products he endorses. That's the impression I get.
My dream is to unite Asian citizens. I think that is what I’m meant to do.
A lot of people might laugh at him and say that he is silly for wanting to do this. "An artist trying to unite Asia? With what? His looks?" I think a lot of people will think that way, but I can see it happening. I've always believed in it. Even when I didn't understand him well, all I felt was admiration and respect when I first read about his goals. He isn't someone who talks about grand dreams without doing anything about it. He sees, he plans, and he executes. He has such great passion and strong faith in him and what he is trying to do that you can't help but be affected, I guess.
And as I read the last part, I realized that it is true that only the ones who can and wants to will follow him. ._. Though we don't contribute directly, but it's quite the same case here, don't you think? It takes a lot of determination and dedication (not to mention insanity XD) to stay in this fandom, and I've never once felt that it isn't worth it. And I do hope I can still say the same line in the years to come. ^^
Thank you for reading and do keep a lookout for the next two chapters. :D
It's divided into three chapters, and I'll post chapter one first whie I wait for help for the other two. It isn't a long article, they talk about three things: GIFT, ASIA and the TOUR. I thought the most interesting one is the one on Asia. After hearing so much about it and knowing how much he has planned for it, I'm really excited that it's happening. ^^~
I'll let you read it yourself, and I hope you'll enjoy it. :D
1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?
[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview
Gackt - A man who puts his life on the line to continue the fight, even to the extent of declaring, “I’ll retire if I can’t accomplish this.” And thus a raging 2005 passes. Now he already has his eyes fixed on year 2006, no, even much further than that. What’s truly spurring him on? It’s the mission he has placed on himself; as well as the dream that must be accomplished. What is in his mind and what is he aiming for now? This cover article will discuss (lit.draw near, press) Gackt’s real intention.
Gackt CHAPTER.1
Look back on 2005
Long interview
In 2005, Gackt challenged himself more than he usually does, and also took on new challenges outside. [1] In this article I would like to focus on the keywords “GIFT”, ASIA”, and “Fighting”.
[1] I believe he means moving outside, out of Japan.
GIFT
2005 began with the release of “ありったけの愛で” (arittake no ai de) single. This opening was a continuation of the “GIFT” theme from the previous year; and under the same theme, the “Love Letter” album, which you could consider the compilation of the theme, was released. And with that ends the "GIFT" theme, but……
"This one single word, “省く”, can sum up all of one’s life"
I: Along with the release of “Love Letter” album, a special event limited to couples was held, and a ski resort was reserved for the fan club trip and a Winter Sports Meet held. As for the annual overseas fan club trip, you went to Sydney for the first time, didn’t you? The opening of the year 2005 sees a continuation of GIFTs for fans from Gackt-san.
G: It started from me saying, “I’ve started snowboarding,” while I was doing a tour two years ago. I said during one of the live MC, “Let’s go play snowboarding together in a fan club event.” Since I said it during the MC, I would be deemed a liar if I don’t follow through. I searched (for a place) immediately after that, but there is no way we can book the whole slope for weekends, right? Because it takes a lot of money to even book half a day.
I: Ooh
G: I thought, “It’s impossible!” But there was someone I became friends with by chance, and he is the owner of a ski resort. I told him, “Actually, I would like to do something like this…” and I persuaded him to help me make it happen somehow. Well, it was a relief. First and foremost, I was glad I could keep my promise.
I: And what about going to Sydney?
G: That’s our annual overseas fan club trip. The first and second year was in Hawaii; third year was Vegas; and the fourth year this time was Sydney.
I: Have you been to Sydney before?
G: No, it was my first time. It is a great place. So basically, (the annual fancub trips) will be places I’ve never been to. Halfway through I started thinking of going to places which everyone won’t go to normally. It was Hawaii at first, but I think everybody can go there themselves. From now on, I think I would like to visit less popular places one by one.
I: Like the North Pole or South Pole?
G: Or the Amazon. (laughs) Hawaii is better in that case. They know Japanese language and the security is good. But that depends on the organizers; it’s not up to me. Everybody tends to do things the easy way. [1] I think I found a good word recently. This one single word can sum up all of one’s life. It is the word “省く”. This word “省” can sum up one’s entire life.
[1] I believe what he meant was that the organizers/sponsors just want to find easy and convenient places, maybe because it’s easier to handle procedures and things like that. And also for security reasons of course. So the problem doesn’t lie with him.
I: How so?
G: The first (meaning) is to reflect (省みる kaerimiru). But reflecting on (your past actions) is only fifty percent of it. It becomes one hundred percent if you are capable of the act of discarding (省く habuku)[1] in your life. In short, it is the way we look back, reflect and introspect. Then we will feel various emotions within ourselves. And sometimes we need to cast those aside, and courage is needed to do that. [2] If we do not have the courage, we will not be able to cast it away. Because we fear it; because there is the fear of losing. Being able to do that -to discard- is the first step to living. [3] That's what this word means. It’s a great word. I think that is really how I managed to reach this point now.
[1] 省く habuku: to omit; to eliminate; to curtail; to economize; to economize
[2] When we reflect on our actions, or even our life in general, we’ll discover and feel something. Negative emotions, perhaps. We know it isn’t right, and even so, we can’t bear to put it aside. We cling on to it. So we need great courage to let it go and release ourselves from the restrain we have placed on ourselves. Edit: kuro_no_diablo gave a good explanation of this part on the comments below, if you are interested. :D Thanks!
[3] The original sentence goes "That's the first time (this) becomes life"
I: Indeed, the act of casting something away takes a lot of courage.
G: It’s not because it is painful that we cast it aside. I think that’ll be more like running away. Throw it away not because it’s troublesome or anything like that, but under our own determination (to better ourselves). The act of casting something away is indeed dreaded (lit. hated), isn’t it? There is also a fear of hurting someone through it. Courage is needed. One needs to be decisive. Well, I don’t think there are many who can understand this meaning. When I saw that word, I thought it had a deep (meaning). I was a little touched.
I: Where did you read it from?
G: Something like “Wise Sayings of the day”.
I: Could it be something like different aphorisms you read every day?
G: Yes, yes, something like that.
I: And finally, this theme known as the GIFT. How did you feel about ending this theme?
G: With a feeling of gratitude, I will be moving even faster from this point, so “follow me closely now”.
ASIA
It can be said that the year 2005 for Gackt is a year which focuses on Asia, Korea in particular. Along with the release of “Love Letter” album, he also went to Korea to do promotions. He was invited to the biggest music event held in the country, “m,net/Km MUSIC VIDEO FESTIVAL”, at the end of the year 2004, and was awarded the Best Asia Rock Artist. The Korean version of “12月のLove song” [12 gatsu no Love song] was recorded that year as a coupling of the single which was released annually. [1] And for year 2005, he re-recorded the collaboration version in Korean language with popular Korean artist, Isoo, vocalist of MC the MAX. This song is currently released through Gackt’s first - and only - net distribution.
[1] He released the original Japanese version in December 2001, and since then he has released the English, Chinese and Korean version at the end of each year. Normally the singles comes with a revised Japanese version, the version in other language, and the instrumental version.
"What I can do is to further strengthen the relationship between Asia through the influence of music culture"
I: Year 2005 was a year which focuses on Asia, in particular Korea.
G: That’s right. But well, it’s not that I’m only looking at Korea alone, because I plan to move around the whole of Asia: Taiwan, China, Singapore, as well as Malaysia, Indonesia, etc. I am currently planning my activities as a vocalist in Asia.
I: When you said “vocalist in Asia”, was it something you realized when you are making music?
G: It was when I was 20 years old, that was when I came to the realization that I’m Asian.
I: And what brought that about?
G: I don’t know what exactly it was. I am Okinawan and am extremely proud of that. When someone asks, “Are you Japanese,” I would reply that I’m Okinawan. But when I came out to Asia, I realized that this is not right. Based on Japan’s position in Asia, Japanese very much think that other Asian countries are beneath them, right? Yet here we are, so near to each other. Perhaps, if we ask any Japanese about say, (which countries they view as) “overseas”, most would definitely think of America first rather than China, Vietnam or Malaysia, etc. We are mentally close to each other. We are all Asians. I believe the economy centers around Asia as well. And Japan’s economy is already declining in Asia. Though Japan has been standing on the top of Asia till now, Asian countries are now starting to bypass Japan, and that is one of the reasons for this decline. Even so, there are still a lot of people in Japan who live in the old “syndrome”, as if the economy of Asia still depend on them to survive.
I: We think too highly of ourselves.
G: But it doesn’t work that way anymore. If we don’t pace ourselves with the Asian countries, Japan itself won’t last. We look at Asia as one whole entity and we come into contact with (each other) in this huge framework called Asia economy. In short, we have to come to terms with the current situation. It is a fact that the power of America is growing too large currently. The strength to fight that more as best as we can, as well as an influential voice is necessary for Asia. But not through force, mind you. For that purpose, it is important that Japan, China and Korea step up side by side as one economy. But Japan still thinks too highly of herself and fails to understand that. I think it is pertinent that we understand our current state. While Japanese are thinking over it, other Asian countries are already moving ahead first.
I: Korea, for one, is growing fast.
G: They are growing rapidly. And we are the only ones who aren’t aware of that. Other countries have felt the danger and started to act on it.
I: As for that, I think Gackt-san senses that danger precisely because you really felt the atmosphere in other Asian countries. For example, you went to Korea quite a few times already, right?
G: I did. Recently I’ve been meeting politicians from China, Korea and Taiwan often.
I: What kind of conversation did you have?
G: The reason I’m making music, the reason I’m doing them overseas, etc., and in between there are talks about sponsors and things like that. Mostly those kinds of conversations. First I tell them, “I’m not coming to do promotions.” I said that the influence of culture is necessary right now to unite Asia and so I would like them to lend me their strength.
I: Well then, it’s not simply because you want to do a live, but in a deeper sense, you are advancing towards Asia with a mission in mind.
G: I do think about that. A lot. I do it with that in mind because I won’t be able to move on if I don’t. If I go there simply to do a live, it will only be a matter of bringing our music instruments and the band members over, and asking (the staff in Korea) to put the stage together. [1] What I plan to do is completely different from that. I’m going there to show them the world view that we are looking at. Our world view is the message. I have no interest in promotions; I’m doing this only because I feel it as a mission of sorts, that I’m meant to do something to bridge Asia.
[1] When Gackt holds his concerts overseas, he insists on recreating the exact same stage as the one he made in Japan. So he ships all the stage props, items and everything else there, and takes practically all the staff over with him.
I: Do you also start becoming aware of this mission when you were 20 years old?
G: No, it’s in the recent five years that I started thinking this way. Ten years ago, those were still the times when I was concerned about whether my CD will sell or not.
I: Eh! Even Gackt-san?
G: There were such times. That’s because I won’t be able to continue if my CDs don’t sell; because we can’t make a living (otherwise). But I realized in these seven, eight years that we can still earn our income through something besides music. It’s really quite a simple logic.
I: Bwahahaha! So frank (laughs)
G: In this past seven, eight years, I began to understand that we can still earn money even if we don’t play our music to make a living. I saw that we can, surprisingly, earn an income (easily) in this world. And so, I began to realize that it is not necessary at all to play music just to make a living. If I do, I would have to write songs that will become a hit, and I’m not interested in doing that. Doing that would only bring conflicts within myself eventually. (lit. conflicts, complications, trouble, discord)
I: Were there times when Gackt-san yourself experienced such conflicts?
G: There were. Around seven to eight years ago.
I: Hooo, I’m a little surprised.
G: I thought to myself that living through nothing but music makes you dependent on it. I think it was seven to eight years ago, close to nine years ago. A group of my close friends, who were in bands, were rapidly falling out of the music scene and quitting music, and and having financial troubles (lit. life became hard for them financially). All these happened before my eyes. There was such a time.
I: I see, I see
G: At that time I thought, “I see, everybody is frightened.” About not being able to make a living. We musicians give a strong impression of making lots of money, right? But in one lifetime, the period of time when we are popular (lit. respected) is amazingly short. The amount of money isn’t really that great in proportion to our lifespan. But musicians are, generally, really foolish. That is why when we receive large amounts of money, we think that this will last forever and spend it frivolously. And the interesting thing about humans is that it is easy for us to raise our standard of living but we can't lower it back down (once it has been raised). Even if we can’t sell (our music) anymore, we will not lower our standards. We suffer, are terrified of discords and worry about it dropping. That is what I saw happening with my own eyes and the first time I realized that this is what it meant by depending on music to make a living. But that is… a real shame to see [1]. I decided that I mustn’t be that way. And I look again at what “music means to me”. To me, music is (a way) to convey our message, philosophy, will; and to fulfill what I mentioned earlier on, missions and duties. I concluded then that music shouldn’t be all about earning a living or (feeding) our families.
[1] Kakkowarui - uncool, unattractive, unappealing, etc.
I: Music is separate from a way to make a living.
G: Yes. And then when I was thinking of how to make a living, it came to me. “That's right, I can earn my income by doing other jobs.” And I thought that if I set up a few different companies and make profits from there, I will not have to play music to make a living. In that case, I can use music to realize my dreams and use it as a tool to unite Asia; I can devote myself to (creating) a home to help everyone move forward (lit. push people’s back). I am a complete brand.
I: Brand?
G: Yes. (However,) if you think of the brand as something to make a profit from, it will become worthless at once. What the power of brand refers to is really the power of image. That is completely different from profits. I will do something else unrelated to me (lit. other than “me”) if I want to earn profits. “I” am a complete brand. That is why it is okay even if we get red numbers. The people who take part in this feel that it doesn’t matter as long as the brand lives on. So the tour this time will not be the scale of that of a “hall tour”, let me say that clearly.
I: Not just this time, it’s the same way for each of your concerts.
G: How (scary) the red numbers are. When artists who are planning concerts come to watch mine, they will ask, “How much did you spend?” I wonder if they aren’t trying to create such a stage as well. But they won’t be able to, because they are planning to make profits out of it. So we can invest in (such concerts) because we look at making profits separately. You won’t be able to do it if you keep thinking of makings tons of profits. That is why we can come up with such crazy things. I tell them to not get that wrong. Same goes for going to Asia which I mentioned earlier on, I’m not going there because I want to sell my CDs, but because I can do something by using this brand called “Gackt”.
I: How can you use this brand called Gackt in Asia?
G: What I can do is to further strengthen the relationship between Asia through the influence of music culture. To make it strong like it has never been before. My dream is to unite Asian citizens. I think that is what I’m meant to do.
FIGHT
After (the release of) “Love letter” which signals the end of the GIFT theme, the story revolving around “MOON” was restarted. Three singles were released followed by the album, “DIABOLOS”, making this the second album for the year 2005. The concert that was started along with the release of the album was the biggest national tour (that Gackt has) ever held and his first Tokyo Dome live will be held as the concert final. Year 2005 for Gackt can be said as (a year of) fighting grand battles.
"Only the ones who think of moving up along with me should follow"
I: You released two albums; held the largest national tour to date; and had your first Dome performance. When we were doing the keyword interview earlier on, (page.29), you said, “I’ll retire if I cannot accomplish this.” I think the year 2005 was truly a year of fighting.
G: I see myself as having missions and duties that I have to accomplish in Asia, so if I can’t do even this, I won’t be able to accomplish those missions, right? That is what I meant. I don’t use the word “retire” lightly; I do it knowing in my mind that I can clear it. And I would like my staff to think that way too. That is why I said that I would also like to determine the staff’s will/ability during the tour this time. In the end, it’s not like everybody moved along with me when I cleared something. [1] “Although I can do it by myself to this extent, I can’t go beyond that.” There are a lot of people like that, right? That isn’t something bad. For instance, being able to think that they don’t have the ability to carry on any longer also takes courage. In that way we’ve ascertained their will/ability. [2] If we don’t, it’ll be difficult for them because we’ll be pursuing more things from now. You can quit if it becomes too difficult and painful. I don’t want to work with someone (is only forcing him/herself to continue) either. Only the ones who think of moving up along with me should follow. Really, I just don’t want to think badly of my companions.
[1] It’s like when he did something successfully, not everyone made that progress along with him. As you move along to a higher level, some people get left behind or can’t catch up.
[2] He didn’t specify what it was he was testing the staff on… but I believe the reason why you can’t follow something/one is either because you don’t want to, or you just don’t have the ability to.
I: What you are saying is, you (and your staff) are aiming even higher and year 2005 was for determining how much of those (goals) you can achieve by yourselves. It was a year of fighting and determining your limit. (lit. maximum)
G: I believe they see it that way too.
Original text by: Sachie Tojo
Translated by: Sweiled
Own comments:
I think I stopped breathing for a few seconds when he mentioned Singapore and Indonesia in his plans. XD He has never been here to do promotions and the like before, so it really came as a surprise. I thought that he will tour China, Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong maybe, or Thailand... but I didn't think of my own two coutries. And more than anything, I'm truly grateful that he includes Indonesia in his plans. It's not exactly the safest or cleanest or most advised place to hold a concert in. XD I do love my country, despite its many faults and to know that he thinks it worthy enough... it brought a bit of tears. Even if it somehow falls through due to security reasons, I'm still glad that he thought of Indonesia.
/patroitism XD
It's the first time he named countries as well! Before, it was just a vague "Asia", but now it's pretty definite. Though we don't exactly know when, he IS coming. Ah, it will be grand to see him in Singapore, and also to meet up with other fans! :D That will be the day~
It is interesting to see his view on Asia economy. I don't know many artists who do that. ._. But you can really tell his love for his country and his desire to make it better. He isn't afraid to point out the faults and to admit that they have weaknesses either. Though sometimes I wonder when he has the time to think about all these. XD You need a lot of information and news about politics, the world, current economy to be able to make a proper stand, and you need a lot of time to read about all that. He gives me the impression of a black hole. Keeping his eyes open and absorbing everything that is in his way. Hehe. ^^;
Ahaha, I thought it was rather amusing that the interviewer found it hard to believe that Gackt has had such times when he couldn't sell his CDs too. It tells us something too, doesn't it? ^^ But wow, this part definitely interested me most. Haha, he sure is someone who doens't compromise. XD I thought it was bloody brilliant what he chose to do eventually. Most people would either accept the way things are done and try their best to live with it, or they move away from it, refusing to compromise their way of living. But Gackt, he carved another way out for himself. :3 In the end he got all that he wanted. The music that he loves and use to spread his messages; as well as a way to make a living.
And my bad for bringing this up again, but the thought of people calling him a media-whore... It makes me want to do some real damage to someone. XD I do think that anybody has the right to criticize others, but DON'T do it if you don't know anything about the person. And especially NOT in public places. It just makes one seem ignorant, jaded, and thoughtless. If there is anything I learned from being here, it is to not judge the book by its covers. Not everything is as they seem... And I try to keep that in mind for other artists, or even people in general, as well. I may not know them well but if others like them, then they must have positive qualities to them too, just that we aren't aware of it. :D Don't be too hasty to judge others. I think being in a fandom makes me understand that.
I admire him muchly for saying, "I am a complete brand" and then to say in the next line, "If you think of the brand as something to make a profit from, it will become worthless at once." I think he has succeeded well in finding a good balance between the two. I especially like the line "What the power of brand refers to is really the power of image." It's true too, if you look at all the TV appearances and CMs he has appeared in. I don't know how exactly to put it in words... though he makes use of it to earn his income, he doesn't sell himself and go for everything that can give him money, you know? Despite it being his way of earning money, he still chooses carefully the projects he take and products he endorses. That's the impression I get.
My dream is to unite Asian citizens. I think that is what I’m meant to do.
A lot of people might laugh at him and say that he is silly for wanting to do this. "An artist trying to unite Asia? With what? His looks?" I think a lot of people will think that way, but I can see it happening. I've always believed in it. Even when I didn't understand him well, all I felt was admiration and respect when I first read about his goals. He isn't someone who talks about grand dreams without doing anything about it. He sees, he plans, and he executes. He has such great passion and strong faith in him and what he is trying to do that you can't help but be affected, I guess.
And as I read the last part, I realized that it is true that only the ones who can and wants to will follow him. ._. Though we don't contribute directly, but it's quite the same case here, don't you think? It takes a lot of determination and dedication (not to mention insanity XD) to stay in this fandom, and I've never once felt that it isn't worth it. And I do hope I can still say the same line in the years to come. ^^
Thank you for reading and do keep a lookout for the next two chapters. :D