In honor of Kis-My-Ft2’s complete videography being uploaded to YouTube (in edited form, of course…), I can’t resist writing about each single. To put this in context for Bias List readers, Kis-My-Ft2 (or Kisumai, as they’re often known) are my J-pop version of Infinite. That’s how much I love them and their discography.

Yet, I rarely write about them because finding online links to their music was so hard… until now!

Wanna Beeee!!! (2012)

Though I’ll be rating quite a few of these Kis-My-Ft2 singles very high, my first opinion tended to be less favorable. In fact, my thoughts on Johnny’s Entertainment as a whole have changed so much since I first became interested in the agency’s music. Their sound and style isn’t what most western listeners are used to and the qualities they emphasize aren’t always conducive to western tastes either. If you’re like me, your first reaction to some Johnny’s songs might just be: what the hell is this?

I didn’t initially love Wanna Beeee!!!, down to its extra e’s and exclamation marks. I mean, a little bit of hyperactivity goes a long way. But if you’re a Johnny’s fan for long enough, these songs become standards – covered by junior groups and included on tours and specials so often they become modern classics. Wanna Beeee!!! is a ton of fun, anchored by a driving power pop chorus. I love its mix of rock and dance music. This production delivers a rollicking energy, matched by the guys themselves. And, I’ll always be charmed by Fujigaya’s tough guy rap.

As far as the music video goes, the group is roller-skating on a pirate ship. I mean, does it get any better than that?? Yes, in fact… it does. Just wait until the three minute mark. Fujigaya’s over-dramatic whisper followed by his face in the sun (Teletubbies style) is pure camp.