New album (January 2023)

[Sim']

Originally Posted by tokyoxjapanxfan

I think she has a problem with making announcements before she really needs to. (Particularly on larger scales like the screens of her concert.)

I mean, we knew from the beginning it was “planned” for “fall”, but not “decided” on.
But considering she followed this announcement with updates of “recording!” “Finished!” “I’m shaking this song is so good!”—we, as fans, easily, whether true or not, understand that as meaning the recording process is on track and going well. Then Fall nears, comes, nearing the end (at least to where she could make a timely announcement)… then we get the news on the release being pushed back.

So, she sets herself (and her fans) up for disappointment when she’s not even sure about the release date herself. And Ayu strikes me as being emotionally motivated. IE, “I’m so excited I need to tell everyone the news!!” before said news is finalized. Which leads to emotional ups and downs—which can be draining to everyone involved.

Whether it’s management, her team, or just Ayu, there’s no harm in waiting to make announcements.

A simple “I’m currently recording my album, unsure of the release date. I’m hoping for fall but not sure.” —is so much more accurate to the situation.

Obviously things happen, ideas change—but I feel better decisions can be made… I guess it falls under public relations??? Lol


I’m not mad at all, but I do think it’s reasonable to be annoyed about it if you are.

You've said exactly what I had in mind, but with a better choice of words, so thank you for that!

I love Ayu and I tend to always "protect" her and give her excuses and free passes, knowing we should be grateful for still having new music after 25 years when she could just announce her retirement and take care of her children.

But sometimes, it just feels so messy and unprofessional that I wonder if she doesn't feel the same too...
Remember what happened to the "first album in 2 years" with "single-quality for each track" we had in 2018?