Aska (group)

Aska was a Japanese pop and rock duo, originally named "CHAGE and ASKA," composed of Chage (real name: Shuji Shibata) and Aska (real name: Shigeaki Miyazaki). They were active primarily from 1979 until Aska's legal troubles effectively put the group on indefinite hiatus in 2014.

The duo achieved significant commercial success throughout their career, particularly in the 1990s, with numerous hit singles and albums. Their music is characterized by its melodic songwriting, sophisticated arrangements, and Chage and Aska's distinctive vocal harmonies. They also experimented with various genres, including pop, rock, and R&B, evolving their sound over time.

One of their most internationally recognized songs is "Say Yes," which served as the theme song for the popular Japanese drama 101st Proposal and became a massive hit in Japan in 1991. This success led to increased recognition throughout Asia.

Beyond performing as a duo, both Chage and Aska have also pursued solo careers, releasing albums and performing individually. These solo endeavors allowed them to explore different musical styles and showcase their individual talents.

In 2014, Aska was arrested for drug possession, leading to a suspension of the duo's activities. While Chage has continued his solo career, the future of Chage and Aska remains uncertain. Despite their hiatus, their extensive catalog of music continues to be appreciated by fans in Japan and internationally. The group is remembered as one of the most successful and influential musical acts in Japanese pop history.