Singer Suzuki Ami (22) announced a recent concert that she has signed with the Avex record label. Once one of the biggest pop stars, her career went into a dive four years ago after disputes and a court case with her former label.
• Popular rakugo comedian Shoufukutei Nikaku (67) is to become a special consultant to the Yoshimoto talent agency. The appointment was a request in the will of former chairman Hayashi Hiroaki, who died on January 3.
• A couple of big Hollywood stars are on their way to Japan for the first time in 4 years. Nicole Kidman will be here on January 20 to promote her new movie “Stepford Wives.” And Jennifer Lopez will be in town at the end of February to promote her upcoming 4th album “Rebirth.”