On the Ninth Day of Christmas...

...my true love gave to me a rise to fame,
10 years of bliss,
an anniversary trio,
a group of amazing vocalists,
a hit single,
a stunning voice,
the sweetest song,
a deliciously creepy new artist,
and a WINTER PARTY!

When Tohoshinki/DBSK began 2008 they had not yet managed to hit the top spot on the Oricon singles chart but a rise in popularity saw all 4 of their group singles hit the top spot of the charts this year. They also released a 5-set of solo singles from each member, all managing to make the top 10. This highly successful year was capped off with their first no.1 hit, Purple Line.

Before 2008, I wasn't really interested in Tohoshinki much at all, but Purple Line really made me pay attention and I think it made Japan pay attention too. The song has an infectious beat and a cool sound to it, it's a great track. It marked the start of a string of no.1 hits for Tohoshinki and it was a great year for the group. Songs such as Doushite Kimi o Suki ni Natte Shimatta n Darou? and Jumon -MIROTIC- showed the diversity of Tohoshinki whether it be a ballad or a faster paced song. MIROTIC was also an Asia wide hit, with the song being the group's much anticipated comeback in South Korea. The album sold in excess of 450K there and is still a massive hit. The group also received numerous awards including top honour at the Golden Disk awards.

But wait... there's more! (cue informercial lol) ... the year isn't over for Tohoshinki just yet - the boys have been invited to perform at this years Kohaku New Years event, a first for them and a true honour. They also have a single sceduled for release in early 2009 which, like Purple Line, is sure to kick off a successful year.