Introduction
BiSH (Brand-new idol SHiT) was a Japanese idol group formed in 2015 and disbanded in 2023. As an unconventional idol group, BiSH is known for blending elements of punk, rock, and J-pop, challenging the typical idol image and gaining a diverse fan base. Their journey from inception to disbandment was marked by a unique musical style, controversial lyrics, and bold performances. The group played a significant role in redefining Japan’s modern idol culture, achieving remarkable success in the process.
Formation and Early Years (2015)
BiSH was formed in 2015 by Watanabe Junnosuke, a producer known for his work with other idol group, BiS (Brand-new idol Society), which disbanded the previous year. Watanabe wanted to create a successor to BiS, an idol group with a similarly rebellious, anti-idol concept. He recruited members through auditions, initially forming a lineup of five members:CENT CHiHiRO CHiTTiii, AiNA THE END, MOMOKO GUMi COMPANY, HUG ME and YUKAKO LOVE DELUXE. Shortly after formation, YUKAKO LOVE DELUXE left the group, and BiSH continued as a four-member unit.
BiSH’s early music leaned heavily on punk and alternative rock, setting them apart from traditional J-pop idol groups. Their debut album, Brand-new idol SHiT, was released in May 2015, making a bold statement with its abrasive sound and anti-mainstream lyrics. Despite—or perhaps because of—their unconventional approach, the album gained attention, particularly among fans of underground and alternative music scenes.
Rise to Mainstream Success (2016–2021)
BiSH’s breakout came in 2016 with the release of their album FAKE METAL JACKET, which debuted at number five on the Oricon charts. This marked the group’s entry into the mainstream music industry. Their music videos, often provocative and visually intense, drew considerable attention online. BiSH continued to blur the lines between idols and artists, with their members frequently challenging the conventional expectations of “pure” and “perfect” idols. One of their defining moments came in 2017 with the release of the single Promise the Star, a ballad that contrasted with their usual high-energy, chaotic performances. The song gained wide acclaim for its emotional depth and marked a shift toward a more nuanced musical style. Next year, BiSH performed at Yokohama Arena, solidifying their status as a prominent force in the Japanese music industry.
The group’s collaboration with major record label Avex Trax in 2016 helped further elevate their profile. Their 2017 album THE GUERiLLA BiSH topped the Oricon weekly charts, a major achievement for a group with such a countercultural identity. In 2021, BiSH will perform at the Kohaku Uta Gassen, an annual New Year’s Eve TV show featuring Japan’s top artists, marking their full acceptance by the mainstream.
Disbandment and Legacy (2021–2023)
In 2021, BiSH announced that they would disband in 2023. The group explained that this decision came from a desire to leave at the height of their success and to pursue individual projects. BiSH spent their final two years on a farewell tour, performing across Japan and continuing to release music until the very end. Their final concert, held at Tokyo Dome in June 2023, was a spectacular event that drew fans from all over the world.
BiSH’s legacy is multifaceted. They successfully challenged the conventional idol image, proving that a group could be commercially successful while pushing creative boundaries. Their bold fashion, raw vocals, and willingness to address taboo topics in their music set them apart from other idol groups. They also played a role in broadening the appeal of Japanese idol culture internationally, with fans in Europe and the United States.
Member
AiNA THE END
She is the main vocalist of BiSH, and her powerful voice plays an important role in BiSH’s music. She is also active as a solo artist and has a large fan base with her unique singing ability. She is also expanding her activities by acting as the dubbed Japanese voice of Portia in the movie Sing 2.
CENT CHiHiRO CHiTTiii
She is the leader of BiSH and a highly skilled singing and dancing member. Although she has a cool image, she is like a big sister who takes good care of her among the members. She is still active as a solo artist.
MOMOKO GUMi COMPANY
A petite member of BiSH, she is known for her cute looks and unique character. She has a talent for writing poetic lyrics and has written the most lyrics for songs among the members. In 2022 she made her debut as a novelist, focusing on writing.
HASHiYASUME ATSUKO
With her glasses-wearing character and comedic side, she is loved by fans and members alike; she is the “big sister” of BiSH and enlivens the group with her unique character and performances.
LiNG LiNG
She often gives the impression of being cool and quiet, but has a strong presence in her performances. Her mysterious atmosphere is loved by her fans. She has now changed her name to MISATO ANDO and is devoting herself to art activities.
AYUNi D
The last member to join BiSH, She is popular for her youth and energetic performances. She also plays bass in her solo project “PEDRO” and is expanding her range as an artist.
