Mrs. Green Apple Explained

Mrs. Green Apple
Origin:Tokyo, Japan
Years Active:2013–2020, 2022–present
Label:EMI
Current Members:Motoki Ohmori
Hiroto Wakai
Ryoka Fujisawa
Past Members:Takumi Matsuo
Ayaka Yamanaka
Kiyokazu Takano

Mrs. Green Apple (stylized as Mrs. GREEN APPLE; ja|ミセスグリーンアップル|Misesu Gurīn Appuru) is a Japanese rock band from Tokyo that made its major debut in 2015 with EMI Records.[1] They are known for performing the fourth ending theme to the anime series Yu-Gi-Oh! Arc-V as well as their first full album, Twelve, which placed 10th on the Japanese national Oricon charts.[2] Their song "Inferno" is used as the opening theme for the first season of the anime Fire Force.[3]

History

2013–2016: Formation and first albums

Singer Ohmori started creating music when he was in 6th grade, but did not form a band till 2013. Mrs. Green Apple was formed in the spring of 2013 with 4 members: Ohmori, Wakai, Yamanaka, and a former member who was a bassist. Later, Ohmori invited Fujisawa, and Mrs. Green Apple became a 5-member band.[4]

On February 4, 2014, the band released their demo CD, 1st Demo, at concert venues where they played.[5] The demo included two songs, "リスキーゲーム (Risky Game)" and "恋と吟(うた) (Koi to Uta)." Just a few months later, their first mini album, Introduction, was released at the band's first self-planned event. The gig, held on July 5 at Shibuya LUSH, sold out and was also the place where the former bassist announced that he would leave the band.

2015 marked a huge change for Mrs. Green Apple. On February 18, the band released their first nationally distributed CD, Progressive. A month later, on March 26, they announced that they would debut from a major label at their third self-planned event, which also sold out.[6] The group's mini album Variety, was released by EMI Records on July 8, 2015. That summer, the group went on to perform at some of the most popular music festivals in Japan, such as Rock in Japan Festival, Rising Sun Rock Festival, and Rush Ball. In December, the group released their first single, "Speaking." The song was chosen as the fifth ending theme song for the anime Yu-Gi-Oh! Arc-V. Mrs. Green Apple released their first full album, Twelve, on January 13, 2016, and made many appearances on television. The group went on their first national one-band tour from March 1 to April 10 of the same year.

2020–2022: Hiatus

Following the success of their first ever arena tour, the band announced that they will be releasing a Best Album compilation called "5". The album consisted of remastered tracks from their previous albums, as well as three new songs. It was released worldwide on July 8, 2020, together with the music video for the song "Theater."[7]

Shortly after the release of "5", the band announced the "End of Phase 1",[8] as well as the deactivation of the individual Twitter accounts of each member.[9] The band also published a blog post regarding their end of activities:

Today, as of July 8, 2020, Mrs. Green Apple announces "the end of Phase 1", and also that the band takes a break for the time being. That does not mean a negative hiatus but we begin preparations for our new step to the next Phase. At the same time, Mrs. Green Apple is now independent from the ex-management company. [10]

The End of Phase 1 also marked the announcement and start of "Project-MGA", in which the band will be hiring creators and project crew members to join them for their Phase 2.[11] On February 18, 2021, the band announced that vocalist Motoki Ohmori was making his debut as a solo artist.[12] [13] [14] His debut digital EP, "French", was released on February 24 (JST).[15] [16] [17] Later, on December 29, 2021, it was announced that two members of Phase 1 of Mrs. Green Apple, founding member and drummer Ayaka Yamanaka and bassist Kiyokazu Takano would be leaving the group; Fujisawa, Wakai, and Ohmori would remain in the group for Phase 2, set to begin in 2022. A day later, on December 30, it was specified via YouTube video that MGA would officially return Spring 2022.

2024

Ohmori announced on the official website on January 20, 2024 that he had been diagnosed with sudden hearing loss in his left ear, after having problems to listen with it the day before. He added that the group would continue with concerts already announced, while paying attention to any changes, and continuing with any treatment given by doctors.[18]

"Columbus" music video controversy

In June 2024, Mrs. Green Apple faced significant backlash following the release of the music video for their song "Columbus".[19] The video, which premiered on June 12, depicted the band members dressed as various historical figures, including Christopher Columbus, Napoleon, and Ludwig van Beethoven,[20] interacting with ape-like figures that appeared to be under their control. The depiction quickly drew widespread criticism for being racially insensitive and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

The controversy ignited on social media, where fans and critics alike condemned the video's imagery. Some interpreted the imagery as offensive, citing the historical context of Christopher Columbus and his association with the colonization and exploitation of indigenous peoples. The use of ape-like characters was particularly controversial, as it evoked racist imagery and stereotypes.

In response to the escalating backlash, Mrs. Green Apple issued a public apology and removed the video from their official YouTube channel the following day.[21] [22] The band explained that their intention was to create a whimsical "fun house party" featuring historical figures and expressed deep regret for any offense caused. They acknowledged that their artistic vision had been misinterpreted and vowed to be more mindful in the future.

Despite the apology, the incident continued to generate discussion and debate. The media, including major platforms such as the BBC,[23] covered the controversy, highlighting broader issues of cultural representation and sensitivity in the arts. Critics emphasized the responsibility of artists to consider the impact of their work on diverse audiences.

Universal Music Japan also apologized, saying in a statement that the video contained "expressions that lack an understanding of history and cultural context."[24] The Japanese division of Coca-Cola announced that it would withdraw all advertisements featuring the song.[24]

Band members

Current members
Former members

Discography

Studio albums

Title! scope="col" rowspan="2"
DetailsPeak chart positionsSalesCertifications
JPN
[25] 		JPN
Cmb.
[26] 		JPN
Hot
[27]
Twelve 10 — 10
Mrs. Green Apple
  • Released: January 11, 2017
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
9 — 7
Ensemble
  • Released: April 18, 2018
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
3 — 3
Attitude
  • Released: October 2, 2019
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
4 3 1
Antenna
  • Released: July 4, 2023
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
2 1 2
  • RIAJ: Platinum
"—" denotes a recording that that did not chart.

Compilation albums

Title! scope="col" rowspan="2"
DetailsPeak chart positionsSalesCertifications
JPN
JPN
Cmb.
JPN
Hot
[34]
5
  • Released: July 8, 2020
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
2 1 1
  • RIAJ: Gold
Inferno & More Hits
  • Released: December 1, 2023
  • Label: UME
  • Formats: Digital download, streaming
— — —
"—" denotes a recording that that did not chart.

Soundtrack albums

Title! scope="col" rowspan="2"
DetailsPeak chart positions
JPN
Cmb.
JPN
Hot
The White Lounge in Cinema: Original Soundtrack
  • Released: September 23, 2024
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: Digital download, streaming
9 9

Extended plays

Title! scope="col" rowspan="2"
DetailsPeak chart positionsSales
JPN
JPN
Cmb.
JPN
Hot
Introduction
  • Released: July 5, 2014
  • Label: Indepedent
  • Format: CD
— — —
Progressive
  • Released: February 18, 2015
  • Label: Probably
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
125 — —
Variety
  • Released: July 8, 2015
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
38 — 32
Unity
  • Released: July 8, 2022
  • Label: EMI
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
3 2 2
"—" denotes a recording that that did not chart.

Singles

Title! scope="col" rowspan="2"
YearPeak positionsSalesCertificationsAlbum
JPN
[37] 		JPN
Cmb.
[38] 		JPN
Hot
[39] 		WW
[40]
"Speaking"201522 — 20 — Twelve
20169 — — —Mrs. Green Apple
"In the Morning"24 — — —
  • RIAJ: Gold
201713 — — —Ensemble
"WantedWanted!"13 — 7 —
  • RIAJ:
    • Gold [42]
    • 2× Platinum
"Love Me, Love You"201819 — 18 —
  • RIAJ: Platinum
14 3 7 —
  • RIAJ:
    • Platinum
    • Diamond
Attitude
20194 4 7 —
  • RIAJ:
    • Gold
    • 3× Platinum
9 7 11 —
  • RIAJ: 2× Platinum
"Soranji"20226 5 10 —
  • RIAJ: 3× Platinum
Antenna
2024— 8 3 —
  • RIAJ: Gold
rowspan="6"
— 2 1 119
  • RIAJ:
    • Gold
    • 2× Platinum
"Dear"— 12 8 —
  • RIAJ: Gold
— 7 4 —
  • RIAJ: Gold
— 20 16 —
"Familie"— 8 3 —
  • RIAJ: Gold
"—" denotes a recording that that did not chart.

Other charted songs

Title! scope="col" rowspan="2"
YearPeak chart positionsCertificationsAlbum
JPN
Cmb.
JPN
Hot
"Start"2015— —
  • RIAJ: Platinum
Variety
2018— —
  • RIAJ: Platinum
"Love Me, Love You"

— 13
  • RIAJ:
    • Gold
    • Diamond
"Ao to Natsu"
"Attitude"2019— —
  • RIAJ: Gold
Attitude
17 17
  • RIAJ:
    • Platinum
    • 3× Platinum
"Cheers"— 26
  • RIAJ: Platinum
"Lovin'"— —
  • RIAJ: Gold
"Present" (English version)202045 —5
202238 —
  • RIAJ: Platinum
Unity
6 8
  • RIAJ:
    • Gold
    • 3× Platinum

— 43
  • RIAJ: 2× Platinum
— 16
  • RIAJ: Platinum
Antenna
20235 4
  • RIAJ: 2× Platinum
"Magic"9 3
  • RIAJ: 2× Platinum
"Antenna"31 15
  • RIAJ: Gold
"—" denotes a recording that that did not chart.

Awards and nominations

Award ceremony! scope="col"
YearAward categoryWork(s)/nominee(s)Result
GQ Japan Men of the Year Awardsstyle=text-align:center; 2023Best ArtistMrs. Green Applestyle=text-align:center; [47]
Japan Record Awards2022Grand Prix"Dance Hall"style=text-align:center; [48]
Excellent Work Award (Songs of the Year)[49]
2023Grand Prix"Que Sera Sera"[50]
Excellent Work Award (Songs of the Year)[51]
MTV Video Music Awards Japan2023Video of the Year[52]
Best Visual Effects
Best Alternative Video"Magic"
Artist of the YearMrs. Green Apple

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Mrs. GREEN APPLE / Biography. EMI Records Japan. January 26, 2016. Japanese.
  2. Web site: Mrs.GREEN APPLEのランキング. Mrs.GREEN APPLE's Rankings . Oricon Style. Oricon. January 26, 2016. Japanese.
  3. News: Pineda. Rafael Antonio. Anime News Network. Mrs. Green Apple performs 'Fire Force' anime's opening song. June 12, 2019. June 28, 2019.
  4. Web site: Power Push! Interview 2015.07 Mrs. GREEN APPLE. spaceshowertv. Space Shower TV. January 26, 2016. Japanese.
  5. Web site: Mrs.GREEN APPLE 自主企画ライヴ大成功！彼らを見逃すな！！ . Mrs.GREEN APPLE First Self-Planned Gig was a Great Success! Look out for them!! . RO69. RO69. January 26, 2016. Japanese.
  6. Web site: Mrs. GREEN APPLE、盟友とファンとデビュー祝った新代田の夜 . Mrs. GREEN APPLE, A night of celebration in Shindaita with sworn friends and fans. Natalie. Natalie. January 26, 2016. Japanese.
  7. Web site: Mrs. GREEN APPLE on Twitter "Theater" music video premiere.
  8. Web site: Mrs. GREEN APPLE on Twitter Phase-1 fin.
  9. Web site: Notice about Mrs. GREEN APPLE members' official Twitter accounts.
  10. Web site: Announcement from Project MGA. 2021-02-22. Mrs. GREEN APPLE official site.
  11. Web site: Announcement from Project-MGA.
  12. Web site: Mrs. GREEN APPLE on Twitter Motoki Ohmori's Solo Debut.
  13. Web site: Motoki Ohmori Official Twitter.
  14. Web site: Motoki Ohmori Official Website.
  15. Web site: Motoki Omori Official Twitter "French", debut single announcement.
  16. Web site: Motoki Ohmori Official Twitter "French" MV announcement.
  17. Web site: Motoki Ohmori Official Twitter French EP release.
  18. Web site: January 20, 2024 . ミセス大森元貴が左耳突発性難聴 今後は「症状と向き合い、本人の意思を尊重しながら」活動継続 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240121031157/https://mainichi.jp/articles/20240120/spp/000/006/105000c . January 21, 2024 . January 21, 2024 . Mainichi . Japanese.
  19. News: St. Michel . Patrick . J-pop act Mrs. Green Apple spikes 'Columbus' video after viewer backlash . June 13, 2024 . The Japan Times . June 13, 2024 . en.
  20. Web site: Mayama . Tomoyuki . ミセスのMV炎上｢コロンブス｣が犯した恐ろしい罪 YouTubeは公開後に批判のコメントが相次いだ . June 14, 2024 . . June 13, 2024 . ja.
  21. News: 【Mrs. GREEN APPLE】 大森元貴さんが謝罪 新曲「コロンブス」MVについて 「決して差別的な内容にしたい、悲惨な歴史を肯定するものにしたいという意図はありませんでした」 . June 14, 2024 . . ja.
  22. News: ミセス新曲MVが公開停止 歴史理解に欠ける表現 . June 14, 2024 . . ja.
  23. News: Japanese band pulls music video with ape-like natives . June 14, 2024 . BBC . en.
  24. Web site: Japan pop band's "Columbus" video withdrawn amid controversy. 14 June 2024. Kyodo News. 14 June 2024.
  25. Web site: Mrs.GREEN APPLEのアルバム. Mrs.GREEN APPLE albums. Oricon. June 28, 2019. ja.
  26. Web site: Mrs.GREEN APPLEの合算アルバム. Mrs.GREEN APPLE combined albums. Oricon. January 16, 2024. ja.
  27. Billboard Japan Hot Album peaks:
  28. Web site: 月間 CDアルバムランキング 2016年01月度 . Oricon Monthly CD Chart: January, 2016 . deviated . https://web.archive.org/web/20160207102737/http://www.oricon.co.jp/rank/ja/m/2016-01/p/4/ . February 7, 2016 . May 8, 2024 . . ja.
  29. Web site: 月間 CDアルバムランキング 2017年01月度 . Oricon Monthly CD Chart: January, 2017 . deviated . https://web.archive.org/web/20170212033948/http://www.oricon.co.jp/rank/ja/m/2017-01/p/3/ . February 12, 2017 . May 8, 2024 . . ja.
  30. Web site: 月間 アルバムランキング 2018年04月度 . Oricon Monthly Albums Chart: April, 2018 . deviated . https://web.archive.org/web/20180630052754/https://www.oricon.co.jp/rank/ja/m/2018-04/p/2/ . June 30, 2018 . May 8, 2024 . . ja.
  31. Web site: 月間 アルバムランキング 2019年10月度 . Oricon Monthly Albums Chart: October, 2019 . deviated . https://web.archive.org/web/20191113050352/https://www.oricon.co.jp/rank/ja/m/2019-10/p/2/ . November 13, 2019 . May 8, 2024 . . ja.
  32. Web site: Certifications search results: Mrs. Green Apple (physical format). Enter "Mrs. Green Apple" into the "アーティスト" (Artist) field. Recording Industry Association of Japan. ja. August 29, 2024.
  33. Cumulative sales of Antenna:
  34. Web site: Billboard Japan Hot 100 Albums .
  35. Cumulative sales of 5:
  36. Web site: 月間 アルバムランキング 2022年07月度 . Oricon Monthly Albums Chart: July, 2022 . deviated . https://web.archive.org/web/20220810094807/https://www.oricon.co.jp/rank/ja/m/2022-07/p/2/ . August 10, 2022 . May 8, 2024 . . ja.
  37. Web site: Mrs.GREEN APPLEのシングル. Mrs.GREEN APPLE singles. Oricon. June 28, 2019. ja.
  38. Web site: Mrs.GREEN APPLEの合算シングル. Mrs.GREEN APPLE combined singles. Oricon. April 23, 2024. ja.
  39. Web site: Mrs. Green Apple Billboard Japan Hot 100 Chart History . https://web.archive.org/web/20240506100427/https://www.billboard-japan.com/artists/detail/688845 . May 6, 2024 . October 17, 2024 . Billboard Japan.
  40. Billboard Global 200: Week of April 27, 2024. Billboard. April 23, 2024.
  41. Web site: Certifications search results: Mrs. Green Apple (streaming). Enter "Yoasobi" into the "アーティスト" (Artist) field. Recording Industry Association of Japan. ja. November 27, 2024.
  42. Web site: Certifications search results: Yoasobi (digital format). Enter "Mrs. Green Apple" into the "アーティスト" (Artist) field. Recording Industry Association of Japan. ja. October 18, 2024.
  43. Cumulative sales of "Nachtmusik":
  44. Cumulative sales of "Lilac":
  45. Cumulative sales of "Dear":
  46. Cumulative sales of "Columbus":
  47. Web site: 2023-11-27 . ja:山田裕貴、Mrs. GREEN APPLE、新しい学校のリーダーズら「GQ MEN OF THE YEAR」受賞 . Yuki Yamada, Mrs. Green Apple, Atarashii Gakkou no Leaders, and others win "GQ Men of the Year" . 2023-12-27 . MyNavi News . ja.
  48. Web site: 2022-11-16 . ja:「レコード大賞」にセカオワ、BE:FIRST、マカえん、ミセス、Da-iCE、Ado、NiziUらノミネート . Sekaowa, BE:FIRST, Makaen, Mrs., Da-iCE, Ado, NiziU and others nominated for Record Award . 2023-12-27 . . ja.
  49. Web site: ja:『輝く！日本レコード大賞』 . "Shine! Japan Record Award" . https://web.archive.org/web/20221209074655/https://www.tbs.co.jp/recordaward/ . 2022-12-09 . . ja.
  50. Web site: 2023-12-30 . ja:レコード大賞はMrs.　GREEN　APPLE「ケセラセラ」万感10周年3人が目潤ます　安住アナも涙 . 2023-12-30 . . ja.
  51. Web site: ja:『輝く！日本レコード大賞』 . "Shine! Japan Record Award" . https://web.archive.org/web/20231215131944/https://www.tbs.co.jp/recordaward/ . 2023-12-15 . 2023-12-27 . TBS.
  52. Web site: 2023-12-01 . ja:Mrs. GREEN APPLEがVMAJ史上初の4冠を達成！ . Mrs. Green Apple becomes the first artist in VMAJ history to win four titles! . 2023-12-27 . MTV Video Music Awards Japan . en.

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