Reboot: An Overview
“Reboot” is the 44th Japanese single by the South Korean pop duo Tohoshinki, released by Avex Trax on December 20, 2017. This single marked a significant moment in the duo’s career, symbolizing their return to the music scene after an extended hiatus. The release featured three physical versions: a CD+DVD version, a standard CD-only version, and a special fan club edition exclusively for Tohoshinki’s dedicated Japanese fan club, Bigeast. The B-side of the single is particularly noteworthy as it is a re-recording of their earlier single “Begin,” originally released in 2006.
Background and Release
The recording of “Reboot” took place on August 21, 2017, immediately following a press conference in Tokyo where Tohoshinki announced their much-anticipated comeback. This announcement came just three days after member Changmin completed his mandatory military service in South Korea, serving nearly two years as a military police officer. The song was crafted by an experienced team, including Obi Mhondera, Christopher Wortley, DWB, and Hide Nakamura for the music composition and H.U.B. for the lyrics. H.U.B. has been involved with Tohoshinki’s music since their album “Time” in 2013.
The initial announcement regarding “Reboot” was made to the media on October 9, 2017. Marketed as Tohoshinki’s “restart” song, it was also introduced as the theme for the Japanese television drama “School Counselor.” Teasers of the song were showcased at the drama’s press conference held on October 12. The drama premiered shortly thereafter on October 18.
On November 2, Avex Trax officially confirmed “Reboot” as Tohoshinki’s upcoming CD single. A few days later, on November 12, it was revealed that the B-side would be titled “Begin ~Again Version~,” featuring a fresh recording of their earlier work. Tohoshinki delivered their first live rendition of “Reboot” at Sapporo Dome during the opening leg of their Begin Again Tour on November 11, 2017. Subsequently, jacket photos for the single were unveiled to the public on November 24, alongside the release of an engaging music video directed by Daisuke Ninomiya.
Commercial Performance
<p"The song garnered considerable attention and anticipation before its official release due to substantial social media exposure. It debuted at number 23 on the CDTV Original Ranking chart and climbed to number 18 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 just three days prior to its formal release. Ultimately, "Reboot" peaked at number three on Billboard's chart during its third week of tracking. Meanwhile, its B-side "Begin ~Again Version~" reached number 22.
According to Oricon reports, “Reboot” made an impressive debut at number two on the Oricon Singles Chart after selling over 123,000 physical copies within its first week. The single also entered the Billboard Japan Top Download Songs chart at number five while “Begin ~Again Version~” debuted at number 33 on that chart. By the end of 2018, “Reboot” had sold approximately 152,538 copies and secured a spot among the top fifty best-selling singles in Japan for that year.
Live Performances
Tohoshinki actively showcased both “Reboot” and “Begin ~Again Version~” throughout their nationwide Begin Again Tour from November 2017 to June 2018. Their first television performance of “Reboot” occurred on December 6, 2017, during the annual FNS Music Festival, where they received overwhelming support from fans and trended across Twitter in Japan for an entire day following their performance. They were ranked as the second most-tweeted artist during that festival, trailing only behind Arashi.
Another notable television appearance for “Reboot” took place on December 31, 2017, during CDTV’s Special! New Year’s Eve Premier Live. This performance was pre-recorded two days earlier on December 29 and further solidified Tohoshinki’s presence in Japanese pop culture during this time.
Formats and Track Listings
The single was released in various formats to cater to different fan preferences. The main formats included:
- CD+DVD version – Includes both audio tracks and a video component showcasing performances or behind-the-scenes content.
- CD only version – A straightforward option containing just the audio tracks.
- Fan club edition – Exclusive to members of Bigeast with unique content not available in other versions.
The track listings included:
- “Reboot”
- “Begin ~Again Version~”
Conclusion
“Reboot,” as Tohoshinki’s latest single upon its release in December 2017, represents more than just another entry in their discography; it symbolizes a significant moment of renewal for the duo after years away from the music industry. With its commercial success reflected in its high chart positions and impressive sales figures, along with powerful live performances that captivated audiences across Japan, “Reboot” stands as a testament to Tohoshinki’s enduring popularity and musical prowess.
The combination of innovative songwriting and production quality contributed to making this single resonate with fans old and new alike. As they continue to evolve as artists within Japan’s competitive music scene, Tohoshinki shows no signs of slowing down—proving once again why they are considered one of Asia’s leading pop acts.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).