2024 has been the year of digital releases, and the flagship Heisei-era group Hey! Say! JUMP joins the line-up of STARTO groups on digital music platforms! All of their 349 songs will be available for streaming and download worldwide starting November 27.
In celebration of the release of their new album “H+” and marking 18 years since their formation, Hey! Say! JUMP, who made their CD debut on November 14, 2007, are making a major move! Following last year’s worldwide release of their first digital EP “P.U!”, the group is now releasing all 349 of their songs to streaming and download platforms worldwide starting today, November 27. Available platforms are Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify, YouTube Music, LINE MUSIC, AWA, iTunes Store, RecoChoku, Mora, and more.
From iconic tracks like “Weekender,” “White Love,” and “DEAR MY LOVER,” to nostalgic hits like “Dreams Come True“ and “Mayonaka no Shadow Boy,” as well as their heartfelt latest single “UMP,” crafted with direct involvement from the members, fans can now experience Hey! Say! JUMP’s entire musical journey in one go.
Moreover, the latest album “H+“—a blend of the group’s new challenges and signature Hey! Say! JUMP style—is also available for streaming at the same time. It will offer fans an exciting mix of “everyday life meets the unusual” expressed in a DARK & POP style. The album is designed to evoke the same thrill and anticipation as standing at the entrance of an amusement park.
The title “H+” symbolizes Hey! Say! JUMP (H) and the addition (+) of unique entertainment created by combining their energy with fans. The album features a variety of genres, with tracks showcasing both bold experimentation and the group’s signature style.
Highlighted tracks include the groovy dance anthem “Donkey Gongs,” characterized by its edgy sound and striking visuals, and “eek!!,” a charming pop tune that combines catchy melodies with playful choreography.
Alongside the album, fans can enjoy coupling tracks, unit songs, and even songs from the group “Sensations,” which bears a striking resemblance to Hey! Say! JUMP!
Stream & Download: https://heysayjump.lnk.to/artistroomTw
Ahead of the album release, the music video for “Donkey Gongs,” the lead track, premiered on October 30. This groovy and intense dance number marks a bold new artistic direction for the group, with its addictive rhythm, edgy sound, and catchy lyrics.
The MV is set in a post-apocalyptic city where eight young individuals roam freely through the empty streets. Their joy and energy spark a transformation in the desolate landscape. Gradually, vibrant lights illuminate a dilapidated amusement park, symbolizing the birth of a new world through their song and dance.
Combining meticulously crafted studio sets with high-quality VFX filmed on a blue screen, the MV delivers a visually striking juxtaposition of ruins and dazzling imagery. The interplay of gritty urban decay and radiant amusement park lights creates a powerful backdrop for the track’s dynamic energy.
The entire album “H+” is heavily influenced by member Ryosuke Yamada, who spearheaded the project’s conceptual and visual development. His commitment to “Donkey Gongs” is evident in every aspect of the production, from the world-building and choreography to costumes and set design. Ryosuke also played a hands-on role during filming, closely monitoring scenes and guiding members to ensure their unique qualities shone through.
The charismatic ace of the group’s primary focus was on dance. The choreography, crafted by KAITA—collaborating with Hey! Say! JUMP for the first time—uses dramatic tempo shifts to reflect the song’s groove. A standout moment in the MV features a dance break filmed with a 360-degree camera on a minimalist set, enhancing the choreography’s impact and immersing viewers in the performance.
The MV was directed by Yasuhiro Arafune, reuniting with the group for the first time since “Kemono to Bara“ from their 2019 album “PARADE.” Fans of Hey! Say! JUMP will notice subtle references to the world of “Kemono to Bara“ embedded in the visuals, creating a sense of continuity and nostalgia for longtime followers.
Hey! Say! JUMP are no strangers to various genres, and have throughout their 18 years in the industry tackled everything from overly sugar-sweet songs to explosive hard tunes and dance-heavy numbers. “Donkey Gongs” is another addition to their more heavy-hitting songs, bringing out their dancing skills to the front again. Its futuristic sound and mood ensure that the song will last for more than just one season.
With its blend of cutting-edge visuals, intense choreography, and bold musical style, “Donkey Gongs” is a testament to Hey! Say! JUMP’s artistic evolution. It invites fans into a world of transformation and creativity, solidifying their place as one of the most dynamic groups in contemporary music.
Released just ahead of the album, the group’s 34th single “UMP” has already made waves, selling 217,000 copies in its first week and debuting at No. 1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart. This marks Hey! Say! JUMP’s 34th consecutive No. 1 single since their debut with “Ultra Music Power” in 2007, a record second only to KinKi Kids. The group also extended their streak of 15 consecutive years with a No. 1 single, underscoring their enduring popularity.
“UMP” was created with the intention of becoming a new signature song for the group as they look ahead to their 20th anniversary. Written by Kenta Kataoka of the band sumika, the song features a dynamic melody and emotionally charged lyrics that reflect the group’s vision for the future.
When it was announced that their initial signature song, their debut song, “Ultra Music Power,” would no longer be performed, ultimately ceasing to “exist,” many asked themselves “But that song IS Hey! Say! JUMP,” and wondered what song would be their new signature song. It is a song that has been dear to them and many fans and others through the years. It even became the cherry on top during the annual countdown concerts where fans would look forward to who would tackle the unrivaled Yuri Chinen high notes.
Often shortened to “UMP,” the debut song held immense importance to many, not only because it was their first release but also for the profound message of being the “Ultra Music Power” for everyone. This powerful anthem resonated deeply, creating joy, unity, memories, and peace among listeners. Its infectious energy and uplifting lyrics inspired a generation, forging connections that transcended borders and brought people together in celebration.
Hence, the new song being named “UMP” holds significant meaning as it pays homage to that vibrant spirit, further amplifying the themes of connection and emotional resonance established by its predecessor. With the familiar tunes from the debut song incorporated in “UMP,” it invites listeners to engage with the music in a fresh, mature way while acknowledging the legacy of the original. It’s almost liberating watching and listening to the song, as it allows you to let go of the past (“Ultra Music Power“), encouraging you to embrace the present and future (“UMP“) with open arms and an open heart. This evolution not only reflects personal growth but also mirrors the broader journey many share, reminding us that while we cherish our roots, it’s essential to evolve and celebrate the here and now.
Together with Hey! Say! JUMP, fans will greet a new tomorrow, knowing that the shadows behind them, cast by the rising sun, are just proof of the long journey we’ve taken together.
This worldwide release brings fans in Japan and across the globe closer to 18 years of memories with Hey! Say! JUMP. Let’s continue sharing wonderful moments together!
