Japanese dance unit ATARASHII GAKKO! (New School Leaders) have secured a nomination for the 2023 U-CAN New Words and Buzzwords Awards, thanks to their viral dance choreography coined “Kubi furi dansu” (Neck-swing dance).
First appearing in the music video for their hit single ‘OTONABLUE’, which premiered in March 2023, the “Neck-swing dance” became an international online sensation, particularly on platforms like TikTok, propelling the group into the global limelight.
The U-CAN New Words and Buzzwords Awards is an annual recognition of new and noteworthy terms that have managed to capture the public’s attention throughout the year. ATARASHII GAKKO! have earned their spot among the 30 nominees, sharing the stage with notable names like X (formerly known as Twitter), the popular anime Oshi no Ko, as well as concepts such as “dark” part-time jobs (yami baito), and “I’m ground meat” (hikiniku desu).
In a year marked by the emergence of diverse buzzwords, covering everything from trending anime to societal shifts, ATARASHII GAKKO!’s “Neck-swing dance” stands as a testament to their ability to create a dance craze that transcends borders.
The winners along with the top 10 buzzwords of 2023 will be announced on December 1st.
In August, the group announced their first overseas tour, ‘ATARASHII GAKKO! The SEISHUN Tour’, set to kick off later this month. The tour will include 10 shows across North America, Hong Kong, and Bangkok.
ATARASHII GAKKO! The SEISHUN Tour
11/7 Los Angeles, CA – The Fonda Theatre
11/8 San Francisco, CA – The Regency Ballroom
11/10 New York, NY- Music Hall of Williamsburg
11/11 Washington, D.C. – Black Cat
11/13 Toronto, ON – The Axis Club
11/15 Chicago, IL – Lincoln Hall
11/16 St. Paul, MN – Amsterdam Bar & Hall
11/18 Mexico City, MX – Corona Capital
12/2 Hong Kong – Clockenflap Festival
12/3 Bangkok, TH – Maho Rasop Festival
ATARASHII GAKKO!
OTONABLUE
Release Date: 28/02/2020
Label: Victor Entertainment
Listen on: Spotify