Greeeen

Greeeen

Greeeen

Japanese band

Greeeen (stylized as GReeeeN) or GRe4N BOYZ[1] is a Japanese vocal group from Kōriyama in Fukushima Prefecture, comprising the all-male four members: HIDE, navi, 92 (read as "kuni"), and SOH. On March 19, 2024, the group announced a significant change by altering their name to GRe4N BOYZ upon leaving their previous agency, High Speed Boy.[1]

Quick Facts Background information, Origin ...

They debuted with Universal Music Japan in 2007. Their logo depicts a mouthful of teeth, with the four "e" representing both the number of members and their dental background, as all of them graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry.[2] Sound production is overseen by HIDE's older brother JIN, formerly a guitarist of Pay money To my Pain. Their official catchphrase, according to their Universal Music Japan website, is "Rock 'n' Breakbeat with four microphones."[3]

A defining characteristic of GReeeeN is their steadfast commitment to anonymity. Throughout their career, none of the members have ever revealed their faces in any public appearances, be it in promotional videos, CDs, television performances, or online platforms. This dedication to secrecy was particularly evident during their sole TV performance on TV-U Fukushima's Music Bar Palo Palo, broadcast on January 19, 2007, where the group took measures to censor their faces.

Despite their immense popularity, the identities of the members remain shrouded in mystery. Initially, there were indications that they might unveil their faces after all members passed the 2009 dental license exam. However, by late 2009, they firmly stated their intention to maintain anonymity to protect their careers as dentists from potential interference. As a result, GReeeeN's faces have never been made public, fueling speculation and curiosity among fans about the individuals behind the music. This enigmatic aura adds to their allure and mystique, further cementing their status as one of Japan's most intriguing musical acts.

All members of GReeeeN attended the dentistry department at Ohu University in Koriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture. Notably, the group debuted while still students in 2007. By 2010, each member had obtained a dental license and commenced practicing dentistry in Kōriyama. Their dedication to both music and their profession was recognized in 2019 when they were appointed as 'Frontier Ambassadors' for Kōriyama city, highlighting their significant contributions to the local community.[4]

In 2013, GReeeeN made a announcement through the text on one of their CDs. It revealed individual plans for the members: HIDE and navi would travel to Hokkaido, while 92 would journey to Okinawa. Meanwhile, SOH remained dedicated to his work in Kōriyama. This showcases the diverse paths taken by the members while maintaining their commitment to both their careers and their music.

History

2002–2005: Formation and career beginnings

HIDE began his music career as a member of a Japanese hardcore band in his junior high school. HIDE and navi formed duo "GReeeN" (The name was three e's sequence at that time) in 2002. Their music was influenced under Western rock bands such as Sublime and Sugar Ray. However, the group was renamed "Greeeen" in 2004 when 92 and SOH joined the group. SOH was a fan of hip hop and reggae. 92 came from Okinawa Prefecture and had his musical roots in Okinawan music.

2006–2007: Debut and career breakthrough

After the group independently released their self-titled EP, Greeeen on February 14, 2006, Universal Music Japan recruited them in March 2006. They were signed under Nayutawave Records, a subsidiary label of Universal Music Japan. They debuted with the single "Michi" on January 24, 2007.

"Ai Uta" was released as their third single on May 16, 2007. It debuted and peaked at #2 on the Oricon Daily Singles Chart. It debuted at #8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and eventually peaked at #2 in its sixth week on the weekly chart. The song was certified Two Million by the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) for 2,000,000 full-track ringtone digital downloads (Chaku-Uta Full).[5]

Their debut album, A, Domo. Hajimemashite, was released on June 28, 2007. It debuted at #2 on the Oricon Weekly Albums Chart. The album was certified Triple Platinum by RIAJ for shipment of 750,000 copies.[6]

2008–2009: Rise of popularity

"Kiseki" was released as their seventh single on May 28, 2008, and was used as a theme song for the drama, Rookies. It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and sold over 500,000 copies. The song was also certified Two Million by the RIAJ for 2,000,000 full-track ringtone digital downloads (Chaku Uta Full).[7] The song topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100 Year-End 2008 Chart.[8] The song was certified Four Million by RIAJ for 4,000,000 single track downloads.[9]

Their second album A, Domo. Ohisashiburi Desu. was released on June 25, 2008, and debuted at #1 on Oricon Weekly Albums Chart, beating out Ayaka's second album Sing to the Sky (2008). The album was certified Million by RIAJ for shipment of one million copies.[10]

Greeeen and Back-On formed supergroup Bareeeeeeeeeen, which released single "Ashiato" on October 1, 2008.

On March 11, 2009, A monument "GReeeeN's Door" with a musical motif is installed in the station square of JR East Kōriyama station.

Their follow-up singles "Tobira", "Ayumi", "Setsuna" and "Haruka" were certified Gold by RIAJ for shipments of 100,000 copies each.[10][11][12][13] Their song "Haruka" debuted at the number-one position on the RIAJ Digital Track Chart.[14] The song was certified Million by RIAJ for 1,000,000 full-track ringtone digital downloads (Chaku Uta Full).[15]

Their third album Shio, Koshō was released on June 10, 2009, and debuted at #1 on the Oricon Weekly Albums Chart with the first-week sales of over 452,000 copies. It became their second album to be certified Million by RIAJ.[16]

On June 29, 2009, the Guinness World Records certified their song "Kiseki" as the "best selling download single in Japan" with the full-track ringtone download sales of 2,301,674 copies of May 24, 2009.[17]

Greeeen released their greatest hits double album Ima Made no A Men, B Men Dest!? on November 25, 2009. On November 5, 2009, an article of Nikkan Sports suggested that GReeeeN would disband after the release of the album.[18] HIDE wrote on his blog that the rumours were false. On November 5, the official statement by Universal Music Japan also said that the report was false and that GReeeeN would still be releasing music after the release of the album Imamade no A Men, B Men Desuto!?.[19]

It was announced that Greeeen would be teaming up with Hudson Soft to create music for 2009 DS game.[20] Hudson x GReeeeN Live!? DeeeeS!? was released on April 1, 2010, as their collaboration effort with Hudson Soft.[21]

2011–2012: Return in music and Green boy project

"Every" was released at Chaku-Uta on April 12, 2011, as their first song since "Haruka" (2009). It was used for Asahi Beer commercials.[22] The song was included as a B-side for their single, "Hana Uta" released on June 22, 2011.

"Green boys" was released on May 6, 2011, and was used as the theme song for the NHK documentary show Athlete no Tamashii.[22] It was part of the "Green boys project" to help the victims of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. In that day, GReeeeN also announced the start of the "Green boys project" by handwriting.[23] At that time, all members of GReeeeN, who witnessed the damage caused by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in their hometown of Fukushima, started this project with the idea that "At this moment, music may be able to help relax, warm, or encourage someone." GReeeeN launched the "Green boys project" with two challenges. First, "Green boys" will be distributed free of charge for a limited time (until September 30, 2011), as well as Japanese, English, Spanish, Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean. Second, They started to make a music video of "Green boys" with everyone's feeling from solicit photos.

2013–2016: Departure from Kōriyama

In 2013, GReeeeN was announced in the text on the CD that HIDE and navi will travel to Hokkaido. 92 will travel to Okinawa and SOH is still working in Kōriyama.

In 2014, the band released their sixth studio album, "Ima kara Oyayubi ga Kieru Tejina Shimasu." One single released from the album, "Shinobi", was used as the opening theme for the Japanese dub of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. All four members of the band were fans of the cartoon and expressed their excitement when they would be performing the opening theme for it.

In March 2015, whiteeeen debuts as a sister group of GReeeeN with a single, "Aiuta~since 2007~ (愛唄〜since 2007〜)". In April 2015, GReeeeN was adopted for the departure melody of the Shinkansen and conventional lines at JR East Kōriyama station (Fukushima Prefecture), "Kiseki" will be played on the Shinkansen platform, and "Tobira" will be played on the conventional line platform. In March 2016, They released first novel "It's Kiseki ~The Story of GReeeeN~ (それってキセキ〜GReeeeNの物語〜)".

In July 2015, "GReeeeN" first official app released on Google Play and App Store.

2017–present: 10th Anniversary and new beginning

On January 7, 2017, 10th Anniversary Live "あっ、リーナ、ども。はじめまして。『クリビツテンギョウ!? ル〜デル〜デ♪ 』" held at Saitama Super Arena. On January 24, 2017, GReeeeN released "ALL SINGLeeeeS ~& New Beginning~" that is the greatest hits compilation album of GReeeeN.

Public image

As of 2024, the identities of GReeeeN's members remain undisclosed, as they have never revealed their faces to the public. Initially, the group suggested they would unveil their identities after all members passed the 2009 dental license exam; however, they later opted to maintain anonymity to prevent any disruption to their careers as dentists. Consequently, no media appearances showcase the members' real faces, and they have not appeared in promotional videos for their releases.

Appearance on TV program

GReeeeN has made several notable appearances on television programs throughout their career:

  • MUSIC BARパロパロ (2007): On January 19, 2007, the group made a studio guest appearance on TV-U Fukushima's "MUSIC BARパロパロ," where they concealed their faces with drawing paper.
  • NEWS23 (2016): HIDE, the leader of GReeeeN, made a voice-only appearance on TBS's late-night news program "NEWS23" on March 3, 2016. He discussed his experiences and emotions while participating in the inspection work after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. This marked his first media appearance in this manner, emphasizing the importance of remembering the events of the disaster.
  • Mezamashi TV (2016): On September 14, 2016, GReeeeN members (excluding SOH) appeared on Fuji TV's morning news program "Mezamashi TV" to promote their album "Ren." They appeared in costumes representing the members' images.
  • SONGS (2016): On December 8, 2016, GReeeeN appeared in costume on NHK's late-night program "SONGS."
  • Kiseki -Anohi no Sobito- (2017): Masaki Suda discussed GReeeeN's live performances and background in relation to the movie "Kiseki -Anohi no Sobito-" on January 28, 2017. This marked the first time all members performed together.
  • On August 8, 2020, GReeeeN appeared in the special music program "Live Ale," which was part of the "NHK with Corona Project." This marked their first appearance in a special music program.[24][25] This appearance followed an interview with Teruyoshi Uchimura on the broadcast "Minna de Yale Kickoff Special" on July 9 of the same year.
  • 71st NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen (2020): GReeeeN made their debut appearance on the "71st NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen" on December 31, 2020, performing in the NHK Hall. This marked their first appearance on the show.[26] It's expected that footage of their appearance on the show may be televised.[27][28]
  • Peek-a-boo! (2021): On January 31, 2021, HIDE appeared in costume as "HIDE-chan (5 years old) from Dakaland" on NHK Education's "Peek-a-boo!" In addition, on February 15, 2021, HIDE and navi made a remote appearance on ABC TV's "Seki Jam Complete Burn Show," represented by 3D characters with only their voices audible.

Appearance on radio program

GReeeeN has made several notable appearances on radio programs throughout their career:

  • On May 1, 2007, the group appeared on Nippon Broadcasting System's "Terry Ito Notteke Radio (テリー伊藤のってけラジオ)."
  • After a seven-year hiatus, GReeeeN appeared on a radio program on August 6, 2014. They participated in the Fukushima FM 20th Anniversary Special, titled "GReeeeN is here !! HAPPY LOVE SMILE Festival !!" Due to broadcast logistics, the appearance took place from a special studio separate from the Fukushima FM headquarters.
  • On August 19, 2016, GReeeeN made their first national radio broadcast appearance with "GReeeeN's All Night Nippon Gold."
  • The group made their debut appearance on "SCHOOL OF LOCK!" on February 22, 2017.
  • On January 4, 2019 (midnight, January 5), GReeeeN collaborated with MISIA for the first time on "MISIA and GReeeeN HIDE's All Night Nippon." This appearance coincided with their collaboration on "Aino Katachi feat. HIDE (GReeeeN)."
  • Members HIDE and 92 appeared as the first guests on the new program "Rajiru Lab" on NHK Radio 1 on March 30, 2020.
  • HIDE made guest appearances on "Toshio Suzuki's Studio Ghibli Sweaty" on October 25 and November 1, 2020.
  • On December 5, 2020, 92 began hosting the regular broadcasting of "92ラジ" (Saturday 17:00-17:30) on RBCi Radio in Okinawa Prefecture.

Musical activities

About composition

GReeeeN, comprising all four members as vocalists, employs computer software (notably GarageBand used by HIDE) to create band sounds and record songs initially in a karaoke-style format. Evidence from HIDE's blog suggests that his brother JIN contributes to composition using a computer. During the early collaboration between HIDE and navi, they recorded vocals with the assistance of JIN's band, producing a mixture rock style heavily influenced by Western acts such as SUBLIME and SUGAR RAY. Although their musical roots initially leaned towards pop, HIDE and navi decided to explore a mixture genre to align with their evolving tastes.

Upon SOH joining in 2004, GReeeeN's musical direction shifted to incorporate the sensibilities of all four members, blending elements from diverse genres including rock, breakbeats, hip hop, reggae, and J-pop. Their debut single "Michi" serves as a quintessential example of GReeeeN's musical fusion, combining breakbeats and band sounds with piano, emotive melodies, and harmonies from all four voices.

While the debut single "Michi" is credited to HIDE for both writing and composition, the coupling track "Kizuna" is written by HIDE and composed by JIN. Other songs are attributed to GReeeeN collectively. However, HIDE's blog suggests ambiguity regarding the specific contributions of each member to writing and composing. Notably, tracks like "DREAM" from "HIGH GK LOW ~ Hajikero ~" and selections from the album "Ā, Domo. Ohisashiburi Desu." such as "SUN SHINE !!!," "Matane," "Sayonara Kara Hajimeyou," and "Tobira" feature navi on lead vocals.

About lyrics

GReeeeN is renowned not only for their musical compositions but also for their poignant and heartfelt lyrics. The hallmark of GReeeeN's lyrical style is its ability to deliver messages that resonate deeply with listeners' hearts, a characteristic referred to as "GReeeeN Music."

Their lyrics are characterized by simplicity, driven by the desire to convey messages directly to the listener in a way that evokes empathy and understanding. According to navi, each individual has their own unique circumstances, but the universal appeal of GReeeeN's lyrics lies in their ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. By using lyrics and melodies as a form of communication, GReeeeN creates moments where listeners can find solace and understanding in their own experiences. This approach makes their songs easy to comprehend, straightforward, and allows listeners to relate their own situations to the music.

Furthermore, it has been revealed that 92, one of the members, contributed to crafting some of the lyrics. This collaborative effort underscores the depth and authenticity of GReeeeN's songwriting process, reflecting the collective experiences and perspectives of the group members.

Discography

Studio albums

More information No., Title ...

Compilation albums

More information Title, Album details ...

Live albums

More information Title, Album details ...

Singles

More information Title, Year ...

Awards

Japan Gold Disc Awards

More information Year, Nominee / work ...

Japan Record Awards

More information Year, Nominee / work ...

Student Voice Awards

More information Year, Nominee / work ...

Yahoo! Music Awards

More information Year, Nominee / work ...

Films

More information Year, Film ...

Video game

A Mobiclip powered videogame based on the band called HUDSONxGReeeeN Live!? DeeeeS!? (HUDSON×GReeeeN ライブ!? DeeeeS!?) was developed and released by Hudson Soft on April 1, 2010.[42]

Notes

  1. The Japan Hot 100 was established in February 2008.
  2. The RIAJ "Reco-kyō" monthly ringtone chart is a depreciated chart that ran from 2006 until 2009.
  3. The RIAJ Digital Track Chart is a depreciated chart that ran from 2009 until early 2012 and tracked full-length cellphone downloads.

References

  1. [1]
    "GReeeeN、事務所退所&改名発表「GRe4N BOYZ」に 新会社も設立「メンバー4人で新たな挑戦」" (in Japanese). ORICON NEWS. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
  2. [2]
    ＧＲｅｅｅｅＮプロデューサーがデビュー (in Japanese). Nikkan Sports. 2009-06-26. Retrieved 2009-10-29.
  3. [3]
    "Biography" (in Japanese). Universal Music Japan. Archived from the original on 2009-10-26. Retrieved 2009-11-20.
  4. [4]
    "フロンティア大使のプロフィール等|郡山市公式ウェブサイト". www.city.koriyama.lg.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 2020-02-25.
  5. [5]
    レコード協会調べ 8月度有料音楽配信認定 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-10-21.
  6. [6]
    ゴールド等認定作品一覧 2011年11月 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved September 21, 2017.
  7. [7]
    レコード協会調べ 1月度有料音楽配信認定 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-10-21.
  8. [8]
    "GReeeeN、ビルボード年間チャートで1位" (in Japanese). Barks. 2008-12-12. Retrieved 2008-12-15.
  9. [9]
    有料音楽配信認定作品一覧 2015年7月 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved September 21, 2017.
  10. [10]
    ゴールド等認定作品一覧 2008年12月 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
  11. [11]
    ゴールド等認定作品一覧 2009年1月 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
  12. [12]
    ゴールド等認定作品一覧 2009年3月 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
  13. [13]
    ゴールド等認定作品一覧 2009年5月 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
  14. [14]
    "RIAJ Digital Track Chart between May 20, 2009 and May 26, 2009" (in Japanese). RIAJ. Archived from the original on October 10, 2014. Retrieved 2009-10-22.
  15. [15]
    レコード協会調べ 10月度有料音楽配信認定 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-11-20.
  16. [16]
    ゴールド等認定作品一覧 2009年6月 (in Japanese). RIAJ. Retrieved 2009-09-16.
  17. [17]
    "GReeeeN『キセキ』ギネスブックに登録！" (in Japanese). Excite Music. 2009-07-03. Retrieved 2009-10-22.
  18. [18]
    ＧＲｅｅｅｅＮ解散報道を所属事務所とレコード会社が否定 (in Japanese). Sankei Shimbun. 2009-11-05. Archived from the original on November 8, 2009. Retrieved 2009-11-09.
  19. [19]
    ＧＲｅｅｅｅＮのＨＩＤＥ、解散報道に怒り (in Japanese). Sankei Sports. 2009-11-05. Archived from the original on November 8, 2009. Retrieved 2009-11-09.
  20. [20]
    "人気ボーカルグループGReeeeNと ハドソンがコラボレーション!!" (PDF) (in Japanese). Hudson Soft. 2009-06-10. Retrieved 2009-06-18.[permanent dead link]
  21. [21]
    "HUDSON×GReeeeN ライブ!? DeeeeS!?". www.nintendo.co.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 2017-09-21.
  22. [22]
    "GReeeeN releases first new song in two years". Tokyohive. April 14, 2011. Retrieved September 20, 2017.
  23. [23]
    "GReeeeN、直筆で「Green boys project」始動を発表". Barks Global Music Explorer (in Japanese). May 6, 2011. Retrieved December 14, 2011.
  24. [24]
    NHKウィズコロナ・プロジェクト連動の音楽特番 「ライブ・エール」にGReeeeNの出演が決定！ (in Japanese). BARKS. Retrieved July 10, 2020.
  25. [25]
    NHK音楽特番『ライブ・エール』にGReeeeN、氷川きよし、Perfume、松任谷由実ら (in Japanese). GReeeeN official. Retrieved July 10, 2020.
  26. [26]
    GReeeeNの紅白初出場が決定！ (in Japanese). NHK. Retrieved November 16, 2020.
  27. [27]
    【紅白】「GReeeeN」が初出場！“顔出し”演出にネット騒然「本物？」「CG？」 (in Japanese). スポーツニッポン. Retrieved December 31, 2020.
  28. [28]
    本物？ＣＧ？ＧＲｅｅｅｅＮ顔出しネット沸騰／紅白 (in Japanese). 日刊スポーツ. Retrieved December 31, 2020.
  29. [29]
    一般社団法人 日本レコード協会. RIAJ. Retrieved 2017-09-05.
  30. [30]
    オリコンランキング情報サービス「you大樹」. Oricon. Retrieved 2010-08-07. (subscription only)
  31. [31]
    GReeeeNのアルバム作品. oricon ME inc. Retrieved 2017-09-05.
  32. [32]
    "風雲榜:玫瑰大眾購物網". 2019-10-04. Archived from the original on 2019-10-04. Retrieved 2019-10-06.
  33. [33]
    週間 CDアルバムランキング 2019年10月07日付 [Weekly CD Album Ranking on October 7, 2019] (in Japanese). Oricon. Retrieved October 2, 2019.
  34. [34]
    GReeeeNのシングル作品. oricon ME inc. Retrieved 2017-09-05.
  35. [35]
    "GReeeeN - Chart history: Japan Hot 100". Billboard. Retrieved 2017-09-05.
  36. [36]
    有料音楽配信チャート (in Japanese). RIAJ.
  37. [37]
    "EXILE wins Gold Disc award". Tokyograph. 2008-03-04. Retrieved 2010-01-21.
  38. [38]
    レコ大各賞発表 ＥＸＩＬＥなど11組が大賞候補 (in Japanese). Sponichi Annex. 2009-12-01. Archived from the original on 2009-12-04. Retrieved 2010-01-21.
  39. [39]
    "51st Japan Record Awards announced". Tokyograph. 2009-12-01. Retrieved 2010-01-21.
  40. [40]
    "Student Voice Awards: Oguri wins again". Tokyograph. 2008-08-28. Retrieved 2010-01-21.
  41. [41]
    "Yahoo! Music Awards 2007". Tokyograph. 2008-02-21. Retrieved 2010-01-21.
  42. [42]
    HUDSON×GReeeeN ライブ!? DeeeeS!?, Japanese Nintendo software description
Share this article:

This article uses material from the Wikipedia article Greeeen, and is written by contributors. Text is available under a CC BY-SA 4.0 International License; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.