International Wota

What works better for choosing future idols: throwing as many as you can on the wall and hope something sticks, or singling out a small handful that best reflect you own quirky agenda? Ray examines the sudden addition of thirty-three temporary AKB members and contrasts it to the inscrutable decision making of Tsunku for the Morning Musume auditions.

A tribute to a relatively unsung idol talent. Ray even provides some extra pics because he thinks she’s so special.

AKB48 event in Shanghai is cancelled! Fukuda Asuka returns to music! A profile of JE veteran Matchy! And so much more!

Ceefu of hellokpop has a couple of engaging and thoughtful essays about bringing a more humane attitude to idols and their fans. Ray agrees with one, but not with the other. Guess which, or just read his latest ramble slash rant slash review. Slash.

Is there a THIRD unit debuting from Johnny’s Entertainment this year? Ray considers the rumor, as well as the words of a couple of excellent Johnny’s blogs, and leaves it to you to decide.