Arigato

Laughter and tears. People grow older, carrying both with them.
And when they have lived a life that is memorable to someone, perhaps it is the first time that they can say "thank you."
James Bong, also known as Wakai Bong. From the theaters of the Showa era to the stages of the Reiwa era, he has overcome many transitions and still sings "Koko ni Onde," like an experienced chef who has not only not clung to the times but has also cooked them up in an entertaining way.

"Even in those days when I was young and spoke of my dreams/Even today, when I sing with my wrinkled face"

This one line encapsulates the entire stage of life.
He has taken the mistakes of his youth, the glory, the regrets, and the partings with friends and transformed them all into the smile he has today.
The "thank you" repeated in the first chorus is not in reference to his success, but to his own gratitude for "turning even his stumbles into laughter" and to the people who supported him. These words have the warmth of laughter that can be heard from the wings of the stage.
In the second verse, he sings about his origins and resolve as a manzai comedian, singing, "When I make a joke, you laugh," and "It's okay if I fall down, that's part of the joke."

"I don't want to be laughed at, I want to make people laugh."

This is a truth that applies to all comedians, and it's also Bon's way of life.
The courage to change yourself before someone gets tired of you.
The determination to not give up on your routine even after your partner is gone.
The way you stand on stage with gratitude even when the applause starts to fade.
All of this is packed into the "thank you" in this song.
Life is a journey of falling down with laughter.
And Bon has been showing us this way of falling down with laughter, and getting back up, for decades.

This is a reggae song of gratitude from a man who has lived a life known as "comedy."

The lyrics were written by Gaki Ranger YOSHI, who has also written lyrics for Momoiro Clover Z and the anime "Hypnosis Mic."

The music was composed by DJ FUKU, who has written music for SHINGO Nishinari, R-Shitei (Creepy Nuts), ZORN, and many others.

The music video, which will be released simultaneously with the digital release on March 9th, was directed by Johnny (dot ate inc.).