SMAP
| Company type | Male idol group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Entertainment, music |
| Founded | 1988 |
| Founder | Johnny Kitagawa |
| Defunct | 2016-12-31 |
| Headquarters | Japan |
Area served | Asia, primarily Japan |
Key people | Masahiro Nakai, Takuya Kimura, Goro Inagaki, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, Shingo Katori, Katsuyuki Mori (until 1996) |
| Products | Music singles and albums, television shows, films, stage performances |
was a Japanese male idol group established in 1988 by music producer Johnny Kitagawa, the founder of Johnny & Associates. Initially formed as a six-member ensemble including Katsuyuki Mori until his exit in 1996, the lineup featured Masahiro Nakai, Takuya Kimura, Goro Inagaki, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, and Shingo Katori. The acronym SMAP stands for "Sports Music Assemble People." After their debut in 1991, SMAP rose to become one of Asia's most prominent boy bands and is frequently regarded as a "national treasure" within Japan.
SMAP's influence spanned music, television, cinema, radio, and stage performances, significantly shaping the Japanese entertainment landscape by extending the typical career span of boy bands and diversifying professional opportunities. While initially favored by teenage girls, their audience grew to encompass preteens, adult men, and senior viewers through their acting roles and television appearances.
The group released a total of 55 singles—all reaching the top 10 on charts—with 22 consecutive number-one singles and 33 number-one hits overall. Their discography includes 24 albums that made the top 10 and 14 that topped the charts. Their 2003 single "Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana" holds the distinction of being the best-selling single of the 21st century and ranks third among all-time best-selling singles in Japan; it enjoys widespread recognition nationwide and is incorporated into school curricula. Other significant tracks include "Beyond the Night Sky," "Lion Heart," "Shake," and "Aoi Inazuma." In total, SMAP sold more than 38.5 million records within Japan.
In April 1996, SMAP premiered their weekly variety program SMAP×SMAP, which repeatedly secured the number-one spot in household ratings over several years, becoming Japan's most-watched television show. The January 2002 broadcast drew an audience of 34.2 million viewers, placing it seventh among all Japanese variety programs. By 2016, it ranked as the eighth longest-running prime-time TV series in Japan.
The group officially disbanded on December 31, 2016.
1986–1991: Formation
In 1986, Masahiro Nakai, then aged 14, successfully auditioned for Johnny & Associates, an agency specializing in training young males for idol groups. The following year, individual auditions brought in Takuya Kimura (15), Goro Inagaki (14), Katsuyuki Mori (13), Tsuyoshi Kusanagi (13), and Shingo Katori (10). During autumn of that year, a collective of twenty boys between ages 10 to 17 formed The Skate Boys to serve as backup dancers for the boy band Hikaru Genji. In April 1988, producer Johnny Kitagawa handpicked six members from this group to establish "SMAP".
While continuing their role as backup dancers, they also ventured into acting and television appearances. In 1988, they featured on the variety show Watto Atsumare and subsequently hosted music programs such as Uta no Big Fight and Pop City X, along with the variety series Idol Kyowakoku from 1989 to 1991. Their acting debut came with the drama Abunai Shonen III, where they portrayed themselves. Their inaugural self-titled variety series, SMAP no Gakuen Kids, aired between 1990 and 1991.
1991–1993: Formation and Initial Phase
SMAP's inaugural concert took place at Nippon Budokan on January 1, 1991, followed by a tour spanning March to April prior to their first music release.[1] Their debut single, "Can't Stop -Loving-", launched on September 9, reached the second position on music charts.[2] Later releases such as "Seigi no Mikata wa Ate ni Naranai" and "Kokoro no Kagami" secured spots within the top ten. Notably, the lyrics of "Kokoro no Kagami" were contributed by fans and featured in a Panasonic advertisement. The group performed this song at Kohaku Uta Gassen on December 31, 1991.[1]
At the time of their debut, the Japanese music scene experienced an "Idol Ice Age," characterized by a reduced number of weekly music programs. To address this challenge, their management promoted SMAP through variety shows that incorporated sketch comedy and game segments. This approach effectively enhanced their visibility despite limited opportunities on musical television broadcasts.[3]
Their variety program SMAP no Gakuen Kids was revamped into I Love SMAP, continuing until 1996. Beginning October 7, 1991, Inagaki hosted the radio show Stop The SMAP, which remained active as of 2016.[4] From April 1992 through September 1995, they were featured on the weekly variety program Yume ga Mori Mori, recognized as Japan’s first band to participate in sketch comedy.[5]
Their debut album SMAP 001 was released on January 1, 1992, reaching No.14 on the charts; later that year, their second album SMAP 002 climbed to No.6. Singles issued from 1992 through 1994 consistently charted within the top ten. In addition, they conducted three headline tours during 1992. The following year saw albums SMAP 003 and SMAP 004 peak at No.11 and No.3 respectively. Inagaki took a leading role in the drama Hatachi no Yakusoku in 1992,[6] while Kimura's starring performance in the successful drama Asunaro Hakusho (1993) greatly elevated his fame and initiated acting careers for other members.
1994–1995: Major Success with "Gambarimashou" and SMAP 007 Gold Singer
In 1994, SMAP issued two albums—SMAP 005 and SMAP 006 Sexy Six—both achieving No.2 chart positions. Their first chart-topping single arrived on March 12 with "Hey Hey Ookini Maidoari". Subsequent releases included "Original Smile", which peaked at No.2; meanwhile, "Gambarimashou" and "Tabun Alright" both attained number one status, ranking as their ninth and tenth highest-selling singles respectively. The track "Gambarimashou" notably increased sales figures and broadened their audience reach. Since 2002, "Original Smile" has been incorporated into high school music curricula. Beginning April 1994, Nakai and Katori became regulars on the prominent daytime live show Waratte Iitomo, with Kusanagi joining in 1995; this trio remained until the program concluded in 2014. Between July and August of that year, SMAP embarked on their first large-scale tour titled Sexy Six Show, visiting Japan's three largest cities; this tour was subsequently released on VHS and DVD formats. On March 12, they starred in their debut film Shoot!, which was broadcast on television in 2010.
On January 1, 1995, SMAP released their inaugural compilation album titled Cool, which reached number one on charts. The album's tracklist was curated by fan votes selecting fourteen top songs. Singles released during that year—namely "Kansha shite", "Shiyouyo", "Donna Iikoto", and "Oretachini Asu wa Aru"—all achieved number one status, marking six consecutive chart-topping singles since the previous year. The single "Oretachini Asu wa Aru" ranked as their sixth best-selling release. Kimura commenced his weekly radio show What's Up SMAP in January 1995, which continued airing as of 2016. Nakai debuted his acclaimed drama series Ajiichi Monme during the same month; this series extended over multiple seasons until its conclusion in 2013. Alongside acting pursuits, Nakai expanded into television hosting and news presentation roles, enhancing the group's media footprint.
Starting April 1995, SMAP introduced the variety program SMAP no Gambarimashou, broadcast on weeknights featuring diverse formats: theatrical performances (Mondays), talk shows combined with musical elements (Tuesdays), short television movies starring members (Wednesdays), celebrity guest interviews (Thursdays), and sketch comedy segments (Fridays). This structure served as a precursor to the later show SMAP×SMAP, which debuted one year afterward. Additionally, Kusanagi and Katori began hosting their radio program SMAP Power Splash in April.
On July 1, Nakai launched his weekly radio show Some Girl SMAP, which remained active as of 2016. On July 7, SMAP released their seventh studio album titled SMAP 007 Gold Singer, marking their first number-one studio album certified double platinum. They also initiated the Summer Minna Atumare Party tour; following this event, obtaining tickets became notably challenging due to high demand. In August of that year, they hosted the annual charity telethon 24 Hour Television, successfully raising approximately 1.2 billion yen. The group became frequent performers at the annual music event FNS Kayosai, with Kusanagi serving as host from 2005 until passing duties in 2014. Beginning December 1995, they co-hosted the television special Sanma&SMAP alongside comedian Sanma Akashiya, an annual production for NTV that aired over twenty episodes to date.
1996–1997: SMAP×SMAP, the Lonvaca craze, Mori's exit, and the success of "Shake"
On March 3, 1996, SMAP unveiled their eighth studio album, SMAP 008 Tacomax, which climbed to the No. 2 spot on the charts and sold over half a million copies. The singles "Munasawagi wo Tanomuyo" and "Hadaka no Osama" each attained No. 2 rankings and earned double Platinum certifications; notably, "Hadaka no Osama" was the final single featuring Mori before his departure from the group. Their subsequent album, SMAP 009, released on August 12, secured the top position on the charts. The band performed as a six-member unit during their March to April tour.
On April 15, 1996, SMAP premiered their prime-time variety program, SMAP×SMAP ("SmaSma"), which rapidly became a ratings leader and was recognized as Japan’s most-watched television show across several years. The format blended interviews, culinary segments known as "Bistro SMAP," comedic sketches, interactive games, and live musical acts with both Japanese and international guests. This show remains Fuji Television's second longest-running program in prime-time.
From April through June 1996, Nakai, Kimura, and Katori each starred in popular television dramas. Kimura’s performance in Long Vacation triggered what was called the "Lonvaca phenomenon," greatly elevating his fame and influencing cultural trends such as a surge in piano lessons among young men.
In May 1996, Mori left SMAP to pursue a career in Auto Race due to age restrictions for entry into training programs. His departure raised concerns about the group's continuity; Nakai openly expressed worries about potential declines in popularity and the possibility of disbanding. A special episode of SMAP×SMAP aired on May 27 showcased their final appearance as a six-member ensemble.
After Mori’s exit, SMAP hosted the FNS 27 Hour Television special in July 1996. On July 15, they released "Aoi Inazuma," their first single as a quintet, which reached number one on the charts. Their November release "Shake" also achieved top chart positions; both singles were certified triple Platinum and rank among their highest-selling works. Between July and August, they embarked on their second stadium tour titled Chomugendaisho, marking their first tour following Mori’s departure.
In early 1997, SMAP starred in the television movie Boku ga Boku de Aru Tame ni. February saw the release of "Dynamite," which peaked at No. 3 and became their eighth best-selling single. In May, they covered Masayoshi Yamazaki’s song "Celery," which reached No. 2 on the charts and earned double Platinum certification—contributing to the song’s widespread popularity nationwide. Their second greatest hits collection, Wool, released on March 26, achieved a No. 2 chart position.
From April to June 1997, Kusanagi led the drama series Ii Hito, which featured "Celery" as its theme song; Nakai and Kimura appeared in guest roles. By this period, all five members had firmly established themselves as prominent actors.
Between July and September 1997, SMAP conducted their third stadium tour named SMAP 1997 Su, later made available on VHS and DVD formats. Their tenth studio album, SMAP 011 Su, released on August 6, peaked at No. 3 and received Platinum certification. Due to increased individual acting projects and television appearances, they scaled back album releases from twice yearly to once annually starting at this time. The single "Peace," released in September, reached No. 2 on the charts.
On December 31, 1997, SMAP performed at Kohaku Uta Gassen for the seventh year running; Nakai transitioned from performer to host—a prestigious position he maintained into 1998—cementing his status as a leading television figure.
1998–2000: Chart-Topping Hits, "Lion Heart", and the Rise of Shingo Mama
On January 14, 1998, SMAP unveiled their twenty-seventh single, "Beyond the Night Sky," which quickly ascended to the top of music charts. It became the highest-selling single for that month and secured the position of the second best-selling single of the year, with sales surpassing 1,620,000 copies. Starting in April 2002, this track was incorporated into middle school music textbooks across Japan, cementing its cultural significance. Their subsequent single, "Taisetsu," served as the theme song for Nakai’s drama Brothers, reaching number four on the charts and earning platinum certification. On June 18, 1998, SMAP released their eleventh studio album, SMAP 012 Viva Amigos, which claimed the number one spot and became their tenth most successful album by sales. This release was supported by their fourth stadium tour titled Viva Amigos, later made available on VHS and DVD formats.
Beginning in October 1998, Nakai and Katori initiated the variety program SataSma, aimed at younger viewers and family audiences. Within this show, Katori introduced his cross-dressing persona "Shingo Mama," who hosted a segment preparing breakfast for children. This character popularized the catchphrase "Ohha," a playful twist on "Ohayo" (good morning). The phenomenon around Shingo Mama significantly broadened SMAP’s demographic reach to include kindergartners and preteens.
In January 1999, SMAP released two singles: "Asahi wo Mini Ikouyo" and "Fly," which peaked at numbers three and two respectively. On January 3, they appeared as themselves in a special episode of the detective drama Furuhata Ninzaburo, drawing an audience of 32.3 million viewers—the highest rating for any TV drama episode that year. Their twelfth album, Birdman SMAP 013, was released on July 14 and reached number two on the charts. From July through September, they embarked on their fifth stadium tour named SMAP 1999 Tour Birdman, which was subsequently issued on VHS and DVD.
In August 2000, their thirty-second single "Lion Heart" sold over 1,560,000 copies, topping charts for two consecutive weeks while serving as the theme song for Kusanagi’s drama Food Fight. This single ranks as their third best-selling release and remains one of Japan’s most iconic tracks. That same month, Katori released "Shingo Mama's Oha Rock" under his Shingo Mama persona; it also achieved number one status with sales exceeding 1,300,000 copies and became a widespread cultural sensation. The accompanying music video featured appearances by James Brown alongside other celebrities. In December 2000, "Ohha" was honored with the Ryukougo Taisho award recognizing trending words.
On October 14, 2000, SMAP launched their thirteenth album titled S map SMAP 014. Due to increasing individual commitments in acting and television hosting among members, they transitioned from annual to biennial album releases. Their sixth stadium tour called S map Tour took place from October to November and was released on DVD in March 2001. During this tour at Saitama Super Arena, Kimura publicly announced his marriage to singer Shizuka Kudo along with her pregnancy during a press conference held after the concert.
2001–2003: Compilation Albums, Landmark Tours, and Enduring Hits
On March 23, 2001, SMAP released their third greatest hits collection titled Smap Vest, which debuted at number one by selling one million copies within its first week and reaching total sales of 1.8 million—making it their highest-selling album to date. The singles "Smac" and "freebird" charted at numbers three and one respectively; notably, "Smac" celebrated the band’s tenth anniversary by weaving lyrics from previous hits into its composition. On August 8 of the same year, they issued another compilation album called pamS, featuring fan favorites alongside lesser-known tracks. Between July and September, SMAP undertook the groundbreaking pamS Tour, marking Japan’s first-ever five-dome tour spanning major dome stadiums in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo—a touring style now synonymous with leading Japanese artists. The tour’s DVD was released on December 21, 2001.
Throughout 2001, each member starred in individual high-profile television dramas: Nakai in Shiroi Kage, Kimura headlined the record-setting series Hero, Inagaki appeared in Onmyoji, Kusanagi featured in Star no Koi, and Katori participated in a comedic drama special. Impressively, Hero set a new television record in Japan with every episode achieving an audience share exceeding 30%.
On July 24, 2002, SMAP unveiled their fourteenth studio album titled SMAP 015/Drink! Smap!, which peaked at number two on the charts and became their fourth best-selling album overall. The album's title references a discontinued soft drink brand from the 1980s. Coinciding with this release, Kirin Beverage introduced a canned soft drink named Drink SMAP that shipped six million units on its launch day. From July through November that year, they conducted their eighth stadium tour known as SMAP 02 Drink Smap Tour, which attracted a record-breaking attendance of 1.2 million people across soccer stadiums associated with the 2002 FIFA World Cup season—making it Japan’s most attended tour at that time. The tour DVD was made available on March 5, 2003. Additionally, on September 21, 2002, they released their first video compilation album titled Clip! Smap!, featuring ten music videos produced since 1996.
On March 5, 2003, SMAP launched their thirty-fifth single "The One and Only Flower in the World," which dominated charts for several weeks and became not only the best-selling single of the new millennium but also ranked fifth among all-time best-selling singles in Japanese history. With physical sales exceeding 2.7 million copies—making it their top-selling single—it was also their first release to surpass two million units sold. This song is extensively taught in schools nationwide and holds enduring cultural importance. In recognition of its impact, it received the JASRAC Award in 2012 for being the highest royalty-earning copyrighted work over a span of thirty years. Remarkably enduring on music charts for over two hundred non-consecutive weeks across thirteen years (second only to "Nada Soso"), it has been covered by notable musicians including heavy metal guitarist Marty Friedman.
On June 25, 2003, SMAP introduced their fifteenth studio album titled SMAP 016/MIJ, which reached number one on charts and stands as their eighth best-selling album to date. Their ninth stadium tour named MIJ Tour ran from July through September; during this tour they became only the third artist ever to perform at International Stadium Yokohama following B'z and Eikichi Yazawa. Although fewer concerts were held due to Katori’s involvement in an NHK Taiga drama series at that time, attendance still surpassed one million for a second consecutive year. The corresponding tour DVD was released on December 24, 2003.
On December 31 of that year, SMAP closed NHK’s prestigious annual music program Kohaku Uta Gassen by performing "The One and Only Flower in the World" as the final act (ootori). They were distinguished as the first pop group since the show's inception in 1951 to receive this honor—a role traditionally reserved for enka performers—and achieved the highest household share rating among fifty-eight participating acts with an impressive viewership rating of 57.1%.
2004–2005: Solo endeavors and SAMPLE Bang
Throughout 2004, SMAP members increasingly focused on individual pursuits, juggling television appearances and acting commitments, which significantly limited their group engagements outside their weekly program, SMAP×SMAP. The members were unable to convene collectively beyond filming sessions, resulting in no opportunities for music video productions, promotional events, or concert tours. This led to a musical pause—the first in thirteen years without new releases or live tours—although they continued to perform songs weekly on their show. A single planned for 2004 titled "Wonderful Life" was ultimately shelved; instead, Inagaki released it independently under the temporary alias &G, securing a number one position on the charts.
In August 2004, Nakai ventured into sports broadcasting by hosting Olympic coverage on TBS. Despite its use during Olympic telecasts and association with their fifteenth album SMAP 016/MIJ, the remix single "Susume Gold" was canceled. In December, SMAP aired a special program expressing gratitude during their hiatus period. By the end of the year, their 2003 single "The One and Only Flower in the World" had become Japan’s best-selling single of the 21st century. The group opted out of performing at Kohaku Uta Gassen due to the absence of new material, contributing to the program’s lowest ratings on record.
January 2005 marked SMAP’s comeback with "Tomodachi e Say What You Will," a rendition of Eric Clapton's "Say What You Will," which reached the top of the charts. Following singles "Bang Bang Vacation" and "Triangle," along with their sixteenth album Sample Bang!, all achieved number one status. The track "Triangle" was selected as the official theme for TV Asahi’s sports broadcasts covering events such as the 2006 Winter Olympics and World Baseball Classic, airing from late 2005 into early 2006. In 2008, "Triangle" was included in Japanese school music textbooks.
Between July and September 2005, SMAP embarked on their tenth stadium tour titled SMAP to Iku SMAP Sample Tour, becoming the first performers to headline Tokyo’s National Olympic Stadium. The tour was later made available on DVD in December. In August 2005, astronaut Soichi Noguchi played "The One and Only Flower in the World" aboard Space Shuttle Discovery, marking it as only the second Japanese song broadcast in space; he also brought along meals prepared by Inagaki, Kusanagi, and Katori from Bistro SMAP. On August 27–28, Kusanagi and Katori hosted NTV's 24 Hour Television telethon, which raised one billion yen—the highest ratings since its inception. On December 31, SMAP performed "Triangle" at Kohaku Uta Gassen, achieving first place among fifty-four acts with a household share rating of 48.6%, making them that year's most viewed performers.
2006–2010: Pop Up! Smap, super.modern.artistic.performance, and We are SMAP
In April 2006, SMAP released two singles, "Dear Woman" and "Arigato," both securing number one chart positions. "Dear Woman" gained extensive exposure through a Japanese shampoo commercial campaign, while "Arigato," featuring cover art designed by Katori, served as the official song for TBS’s coverage of the 2016 Summer Olympics. Their seventeenth studio album, Pop Up! SMAP, launched in July 2006, also topped charts and ranked as their ninth best-selling album overall. The group’s eleventh stadium tour, named Pop Up! SMAP Tobimasu Tobidasu Tobisma Tour, attracted over one million attendees for a third consecutive year; this tour was subsequently released on DVD. Their rendition of "Arigato" at the 2006 Kohaku Uta Gassen claimed first place in viewer ratings with a household share of 48.8%.
In 2007, Kimura starred in the commercially acclaimed film Hero, which became that year’s highest-grossing movie and ranked second among films involving SMAP members after Howl's Moving Castle. December saw the release of "Dangan Fighter," which topped charts and was featured in TV Asahi sports broadcasts. Their performance at that year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen again achieved first place with a 43.9% share; all participating artists concluded with a finale performance of "The One and Only Flower in the World," reaching a 46.1% share.
SMAP maintained chart success in 2008 with singles "Sonomama / White Message" and "Sono toki, Kitto Yume janai," both reaching number one; notably, the latter served as TBS’s official song for its coverage of the 2008 Summer Olympics. Their eighteenth album, super.modern.artistic.performance, featuring production contributions from Will.i.am, positioned SMAP as only the second artist to surpass ten million album sales in Japan. The associated stadium tour ran from September through December and was made available on DVD and Blu-ray formats. They performed "Sono toki, Kitto Yume janai" at that year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen.
Beginning in 2009, SMAP hosted an annual television special titled SMAP Gambarimasu. That year’s double A-side single "Sotto Kyutto / Super Star" reached number one; "Sotto Kyutto" served as the theme for Kusanagi's drama Ninkyo Helper, while "Super Star" was featured in TV Asahi sports broadcasts starting with the 2009 World Aquatics Championships. Their appearance at Kohaku Uta Gassen included these tracks alongside "The One and Only Flower in the World."
A planned concert at Expo 2010 Shanghai China was canceled due to worsening Sino-Japanese relations and safety concerns following ticket fraud incidents and venue complications.
In July 2010, their nineteenth album We are SMAP! continued their streak with five consecutive number one albums. Their thirteenth stadium tour marked a milestone of over ten million cumulative concert attendees throughout their career; former member Mori made an appearance during a September show. The DVD and Blu-ray releases from this tour topped sales charts. Concurrently, a bottled sports drink branded We Are SMAP was introduced in Japan. The August single "This is love," composed by Love Psychedelico, also attained number one status, marking twenty years of consecutive top ten singles since their debut. Their annual television special featuring Sanma Akashiya became Japan’s highest-rated program of 2010 with a household share of 23.4%. At December’s Kohaku Uta Gassen, SMAP performed as ootori for the third time, securing first place among forty-four acts with a household share rating of 48.9%.
2011–2015: Smap Aid, Gift of Smap, and Mr.S
Beginning in March 2011, SMAP took an active role in aiding those affected by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. On May 4, they launched their sole digital single, "Not Alone," pledging to donate 100 yen from each download toward relief initiatives. In July, Nakai returned as host of the annual FNS 27 Hour Television special for the fifth occasion, presenting "Bistro SMAP On The Go," where four members prepared 1,000 meals for tsunami evacuees. Additionally, Nakai initiated the yearly music program Ongaku no Hi to further support disaster victims.
On August 17, 2011, SMAP unveiled their fifth compilation album titled SMAP Aid, contributing 200 yen per album sold to aid those impacted by the catastrophe. Fans participated in an online poll to select the top fifteen tracks featured. The album achieved chart-topping status and received platinum certification. Due to the disaster's impact, no concerts were held; instead, fan gatherings occurred at locations such as Seibuen Theme Park in Saitama, where the group originally debuted in 1991. Their postponed concert in China took place in September in Beijing and was subsequently released on DVD, which also led sales charts. In November, they organized FanxFun Party at Tokyo Dome for fans who missed prior events. December witnessed the release of their chart-topping single "Boku no Hanbun." That year also saw the release of Chinese-language versions of several hits. On December 31, SMAP performed as ootori at Kohaku Uta Gassen.
In April 2012, their single "Sakasama no Sora" reached number one and served as the theme song for NHK's drama Umechan Sensei, marking Johnny & Associates' first contribution to an asadora. August brought the release of "Moment," which became the official anthem for the 2012 Summer Olympics and also reached number one. Their twentieth studio album, Gift of SMAP, was released concurrently. Following this, they embarked on their fourteenth stadium tour, attracting over one million attendees—their first audience of such scale in six years. The tour's DVD and Blu-ray editions dominated sales charts. Once again, they appeared as ootori at Kohaku on December 31, achieving a record-breaking third consecutive year in this role while securing the highest viewership among forty-four participating artists.
February 2013 featured the release of their number-one double A-side single "Mistake! / Battery," followed by other chart-topping singles including "Joy" and "Shareotsu / Hello." Collaborating with Universal Studios Japan, SMAP contributed to the "World Entertainment Project," with "Battery" showcased at a new attraction that recorded unprecedented queue lengths. In April, a two-hour special episode of SMAP×SMAP commemorated their 25th anniversary and became one of the most-watched programs of that year. September included a live medley performance featuring all fifty singles aired on SMAP×SMAP. They also hosted a television special presenting a live sequel to the detective series Furuhata Ninzaburo. For the sixth time, SMAP performed as ootori at Kohaku on December 31.
In March 2014, SMAP performed the national anthem during the 2014 MLB Japan All-Star Series. The April double A-side single "Yes we are / Kokokara" claimed number-one status; later in July, "Top Of The World / Amazing Discovery," which served as Universal Studios Japan’s official song, also topped charts. In April, SMAP was appointed as Universal Studios Japan’s inaugural ambassadors alongside Prime Minister Abe and Caroline Kennedy. The track "Yes we are" was used as the theme for TBS's news programming while "Kokokara" supported efforts to revitalize Nihonbashi. July marked SMAP’s first group hosting of FNS 27 Hour Television. Their twenty-first album, Mr.S, released in September, debuted at number one; their fifteenth stadium tour spanned from September through January 2015 and attracted over one million attendees. The accompanying DVD and Blu-ray releases topped sales charts. During Kohaku on December 31, they performed multiple songs.
In January 2015, Inagaki and Kusanagi co-hosted a television special together for the first time. February saw their double A-side single "Kareinaru Gyakushu / Humor Shichauyo" reach number one, pushing total record sales beyond 35 million copies. Between April and June, Kusanagi and Katori starred in the theatrical production Burst!. Their fifty-fifth single, "Otherside / Ai ga Tomarumadewa," was released on their debut anniversary in September and marked their twenty-second consecutive number-one single. They appeared once more at Kohaku on December 31. That year, SMAP represented NHK Nodojiman’s seventieth anniversary celebrations and were named ambassadors for the Paralympic games through 2020 in collaboration with the Nippon Foundation. To commemorate this partnership, Katori created a mural displayed at the Nippon Foundation’s headquarters.
2016: Group Dissolution
On January 13, 2016, reports surfaced indicating that Nakai, Inagaki, Kusanagi, and Katori were in discussions about departing from Johnny & Associates, suggesting the imminent breakup of SMAP. However, on January 18, the group publicly refuted these claims during their weekly variety program, SMAP×SMAP, expressing regret for any distress caused to fans and disturbances within the entertainment sector. Despite this denial, Johnny & Associates officially declared on August 14 that SMAP would disband effective December 31, 2016.
Between August and December, radio shows hosted by SMAP members—namely Some Girl SMAP (Nakai), Stop the SMAP (Inagaki), and SMAP Power Splash (Kusanagi and Katori)—were confirmed to persist beyond the group's dissolution but without including "SMAP" in their titles. Kimura’s program, What's Up SMAP, continued under its original name. Their long-standing weekday radio show, Ohayo SMAP, concluded on December 30 after a remarkable 22-year run.
On September 21, 2016, Victor Entertainment revealed plans for a commemorative compilation and video album celebrating SMAP’s 25th anniversary. Fans participated in an online poll selecting tracks from a pool of 400 songs. The resulting compilation album, titled SMAP 25 YEARS, was released on December 21 and sold 668,000 copies during its first week, securing the number one spot on the charts. This marked the band’s fifteenth album to top charts and was the fastest-selling album of that year. It received triple Platinum certification in its debut week and achieved Diamond status by its third week after surpassing one million physical copies sold. The album maintained its top position for two consecutive weeks.
The concluding episode of SMAPxSMAP aired on December 26 as a five-hour special featuring memorable moments from its two-decade history. The final segment showcased the group’s last performance together performing their signature song "The One and Only Flower in the World," followed by a farewell video message from the production staff.
On December 28, SMAP issued their second video compilation, Clip! Smap! Complete Singles, containing all 63 music videos from their career. Both DVD and Blu-ray versions debuted simultaneously at number one—marking SMAP’s ninth chart-topping DVD release—and held that position for two weeks. The release was certified Platinum during its second week. After disbandment, each member shared farewell messages with their audience.
In 2023, Nakai became embroiled in a controversy involving an attempted payment to a woman, with executives from Fuji Television implicated in the incident. This scandal resulted in resignations among senior executives and led to Nakai’s retirement from the entertainment industry in early 2025 amid extensive media scrutiny.
Members
- Masahiro Nakai
- Takuya Kimura
- Goro Inagaki
- Tsuyoshi Kusanagi
- Shingo Katori
- Katsuyuki Mori
Philanthropy
SMAP demonstrated strong commitment to charitable causes, particularly aiding victims of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami as well as the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes. They regularly participated in NTV's annual telethon event, 24 Hour Television, successfully raising over one billion yen in both 1995 and 2005. In 2011, they allocated a dedicated 30-second commercial segment during SMAP×SMAP to encourage donations for the Japanese Red Cross Society, producing new appeals for each broadcast. As members of Marching J—a philanthropic organization established by their agency Johnny & Associates—they also contributed individually through donations.
Their digital release "Not Alone" (2011) donated 100 yen per download toward disaster relief efforts. Nakai hosted the FNS 27 Hour Television special that year, which included "Bistro SMAP On The Go," where four members prepared 1,000 meals for evacuees across affected prefectures. Additionally, Nakai initiated Ongaku no Hi, an annual music event launched in 2011 aimed at supporting disaster-impacted communities. The group released a compilation album titled SMAP Aid in August 2011; for every copy sold, 200 yen was donated to relief initiatives. Unfortunately, a planned tour was canceled due to electricity shortages.
Following the Kumamoto earthquakes in 2016, their commercial messages were revised to provide ongoing support to those affected. Nakai made several unannounced visits to evacuation centers in Kumamoto Prefecture; these visits were later joined by Katori and Kimura, underscoring their sustained dedication to assisting impacted populations.
Endorsements and partnerships
SMAP has consistently ranked among Japan's top-earning celebrities in advertising, reportedly securing contracts valued at approximately 100 million yen per commercial. Since 1991, the group has amassed more than fifty endorsement agreements with leading Japanese corporations, both as a collective and through individual members. Prominent partnerships include collaborations with NTT, SoftBank, Dole, Meiji, Ajinomoto, and Suntory Boss Coffee. Their music has often been featured in commercials as well as serving as theme songs for anime series and sports broadcasts, thereby boosting brand recognition.
Beginning in 2004, SMAP provided official theme songs for several Olympic Games: "Susume" (2004), "Kono Toki, Kitto Yume Jyanai" (2008), "Moment" (2012), and "Arigato" (2016), all utilized during TBS’s Olympic coverage. The track "Triangle" was designated as the official song for the 2006 Winter Olympics and was used in TV Asahi’s sports programming. In 2006, "Dear Woman" was featured in Shiseido’s shampoo advertisements, achieving top rankings among commercials.
Significant collaborations include a landmark 2009 campaign with SoftBank that set advertising records and a partnership with 7-Eleven starting in 2012. This alliance led to the creation of the "Bistro Bentos" product line inspired by their cooking segment on SMAP×SMAP, with new products released annually until 2015. In 2013, SMAP endorsed Suntory Boss Coffee alongside Tommy Lee Jones and partnered with Sanrio to celebrate Hello Kitty’s 40th anniversary.
In 2014, SMAP was named ambassadors for Universal Studios Japan and contributed theme songs for various park attractions. Their music also supported initiatives such as the Nihonbashi Revitalization Project and Shidax’s Heart&Smile Project, which aids African children by donating proceeds from single sales. From 2015 onward, member Katori appeared in promotional commercials for JA Group.
In November 2015, SMAP was appointed as official representatives for the Paralympic Games through the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in collaboration with the Nippon Foundation. After SMAP disbanded in 2016, former members established Atarashii Chizu to continue their role as Paralympic ambassadors. By 2017, Katori had become involved in art exhibitions organized by the Nippon Foundation.
Discography
Studio albums
Compilation albums
- 1995: Cool
- 1997: Wool
- 2001: Smap Vest
- 2001: pamS
- 2011: SMAP AID
- 2016: SMAP 25 Years
Television (personality and performer)
'2015–2016' 'NHK Nodojiman' 'Themselves (host)' ' '| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Wa tto Atsumare | Themselves | |
| 1989 | Uta no Big Fight | Themselves (host) | |
| 1989–1991 | Idol Kyowakoku | Themselves (host) | |
| 1990–1991 | SMAP no Gakuen Kids | Themselves (host) | |
| 1990–1999 | Shinshun Kakushigei Taikai | Themselves (host, guest) | |
| 1991–1996 | I Love SMAP | Themselves (host) | |
| 1991–2015 | Music Station | Themselves (guest performer) | 124 episodes |
| FNS Kayousai | Themselves (guest performer) | 27 episodes | |
| Kohaku Uta Gassen | Themselves (guest performer) | 23 episodes | |
| 1992–1995 | Yume ga Mori Mori | Themselves | |
| 1993–1996 | Kiss shita SMAP | Themselves (host) | |
| 1993–1997 | Idol On Stage | Themselves (host, performer) | |
| 1993–2015 | Music Station Super Live | Themselves (guest performer) | 20 episodes |
| 1994–1996 | Magical Zunou Power | Themselves | |
| 1994–2014 | Waratte Iitomo | Themselves | |
| 1995 | SMAP no Gambarimashou | Themselves (host) | |
| 24 Hour Television | Themselves (host) | ||
| Tokyo Friend Park 2 | Themselves (contestant) | ||
| 1995–1997 | "SMAP Toshikoshi" | "Themselves (host, performer)" | "3 TV specials" |
| "1995–2015" | "Sanma&SMAP" | "Themselves (host)" | "21 TV specials" |
| 1996" | "Super TV: SMAP 120 Days" | "Themselves" | "Documentary" |
| "FAN SMAP Special" | "Themselves (performer)" | "TV special" | |
| "Bang! Bang! Bang!" | "Themselves" | "" | |
| "1996–2014" | "27 Hour Television" | "Themselves (host)" | "10 TV specials" |
| "1996–2010" | "Utaban" | "Themselves (host, performer)" | "" |
| "1996–2016" | "SMAP×SMAP" | "Themselves (host, chef, performer)" | "" |
| "1998–2002" | "SataSma" | "Themselves (host)" | "" |
| "2000" | "SMAP Secret X'mas Party" | "Themselves (host)" | "TV special" |
| "2002" | "DeliSma" | "Themselves (host)" | "" |
| 2003" | "Smao" | "Themselves (host)" | "" |
| "Tokyo Friend Park 2" | "Themselves (contestant)" | "Guest appearance" | |
| "2003–2006" | "Best Artist" | "Themselves (guest performer)" | "3 TV specials" |
| "2005" | "24 Hour Television" | "Themselves (host)" | |
| '2007–2016' | 'Baby Smap' | 'Themselves (host)' | |
| '2009' | 'Fuji TV 50th Anniversary' | 'Themselves (host)' | 'TV special' |
| '2009–2013' | 'SMAP Gambarimasu' | 'Themselves (host)' | '5 TV specials' |
| '2010–2015' | 'CDTV Special' | 'Themselves (host, performer)' | '6 TV specials' |
| '2011' | 'Professional' | 'Themselves' | 'Documentary' |
| '2011–2015' | 'Ongaku no Hi' | 'Themselves (host, performer)' | '5 TV specials' |
| 2012–2015"' | 'FNS Uta no Natsumatsuri' | 'Themselves (host, performer)' | '4 TV specials' |
| 'Utage' | 'Themselves (host, performer)' | ||
| 'Ashita e Concert' | 'Themselves (host, performer)' | '5 TV specials' | |
| '2013' | 'SMAP Go! Go!' | 'Themselves (host)' | 'TV special' |
| '2014' | 'TV Tokyo 50th Anniversary' | 'Themselves (host)' | 'TV special' |
| '2014–2015' | 'SmaShip' | 'Themselves (host)' | '2 TV specials' |
| 2015"' | 'Ichii Jyanakutte Iijyanai' | 'Themselves (host)' | '2 TV specials' |
| 'Bokura no Ongaku Our Music' | 'Themselves (host, performer)' | 'TV special' |
Television (as performers)
| Year | Program | Characters | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1988–1989 | Abunai Shonen III | Themselves | Lead roles |
| 1992 | Motto, Tokimeki wo | Themselves | Guest appearance; television special |
| 1997 | Boku ga Boku de Arutame ni |
|
Lead roles; TV special |
| 1999 | Furuhata Ninzaburo vs SMAP | Themselves | Lead roles; special episode of Furuhata Ninzaburo |
| 2001 | Yonimo Kimyo na Monogatari |
|
Lead roles; television special |
| 2004 | X'smap |
|
Lead roles; TV special |
| 2010 | Dokutomato Satsujin Jiken | Themselves | Lead roles; TV special edition |
| 2013 | Furuhata vs SMAP The Aftermath | Themselves | Lead roles; sequel TV special to Furuhata Ninzaburo vs SMAP |
| 2014 | Oretachi ni Asu wa aru | Themselves | Lead roles; TV special |
| Sazae-san | Themselves (voice) | Episode 7148: "Recipe for a Smile" |
Film
| Year | Movie | Characters | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 | Shoot! |
|
Principal roles |
Theatre
| Year | Production | Characters | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 | ' 'Saint Seiya' ' |
|
Principal roles |
| 1992 | ' 'Dragon Quest' ' | Principal roles | |
| 1993 | ' 'Another' ' | Principal roles |
Radio
| Year(s) | Program Name | Member(s) Featured | Role Portrayed | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1991–2016 | ' 'Stop the SMAP' ' | Template:Center | Himself | Continued after group's dissolution under the title Henshucho Inagaki Goro starting 2017. |
| 1995–2016 | ' 'Some Girl SMAP' ' | Template:Center | Himself | Persisted post-disbandment with the name Nakai Masahiro's On & On Air from 2017 onward. |
| 1995–2018 | ' 'What's Up SMAP' ' | Template:Center | Himself | |
| 1995–2016 | ' 'SMAP Power Splash' ' | Template:Center | Themselves | Continued after disbandment under the title ShinTsuyo Power Splash starting 2017. |
| 1996–2016 | ' 'Ohayo SMAP' ' | Template:Center | Themselves |
Commercials
| Year ! Brand ! Product ! Associated Song(s) ! Remarks | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 | Tombow | School uniforms | |
| 1989 | Morinaga Milk Industry | Soft drink beverages | |
| 1991–1993 | Panasonic | Fax machines, Word processors, Telephones | "Seigi no Mikata wa Ate ni Naranai", "Kokoro no Kagami", "Kiss of Fire", "100-man no Kotoba" |
| 1992–1994 | Lotte | Ice cream, Cereal Chocolate, Vacation Chocolate, Snacks, Gum | "Kimi to Boku no Rokkagetsu" (gum) |
| 1995 | Calbee | Potato chips | Provided song; group not shown in advertisement |
| 1995–1999 | Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) and NTT East Corporation (from 1999 to 2009) | "Kansha Shite", "Shake", "Sorejya Mata", "Fly" | |
| 2006–2008 | Nippon Telegraph and Telephone | Flet's internet service | "Sonomama", "Tabidachi no Hi ni" |
| 2000–2012 | Enix / Square Enix | Dragon Quest VII, Dragon Quest VIII, Dragon Quest IX, Dragon Quest X | |
| 2001–2003 | All Nippon Airways (ANA) | ||
| 2005–2007 | Various companies (including Tokio Marine Nichido, Mitsui Fudosan, Shiseido, Recruit, Otsuka Pharmaceutical) | "Dear Woman", "Can't Stop -Loving-" among others; some ads aired regionally only | |
| 2009–2016 | SoftBank Group (featuring cell phones, iPhone 3G, UULA music streaming service) | "Love & Peace Inside", "Tenohira no Sekai", "Original Smile" (special one-minute commercial in final episode of SMAPxSMAP) | |
| 2012–2016 | Seven & I Holdings (including Sogo & Seibu) | "Gift" and additional songs; retail and gift-related campaigns | |
| 2013–2014 | Suntory, Sanrio, Mitsui Fudosan, Universal Studios Japan | "Hello", "Kokokara", "Amazing Discovery"; songs contributed by band though not always visually featured |
Concert tours
- Spring SMAP 91 (March to April 1991)
- SMAP 92 Yattekimashita Oshogatsu (January 1992)
- Spring SMAP 92 (March to April 1992)
- SMAP 92 Summer Concert (August 1992)
- SMAP Live (November 1992)
- New Year Concert (January 1993)
- Spring SMAP 93 (March to April 1993)
- New Year Concert (January 1994)
- Spring Concert (April to May 1994)
- Sexy Six Show (July to August 1994)
- Cool January (January 1995)
- Cool Spring (March to April 1995)
- Summer Minna Atumare Party (July to September 1995)
- Winter Concert (December 1995 to January 1996)
- Spring Concert (March to April 1996)
- Chomugendaisho (July to August 1996)
- SMAP Subarashii Sutekina Sugoizo (July to September 1997)
- Concert Tour 1998 Viva Amigos (July to September 1998)
- SMAP 1999 Tour Birdman (July to September 1999)
- SMAP 00 S map Tour (October to November 2000)
- SMAP 01 pamS Tour (July to September 2001)
- SMAP 02 Drink Smap Tour (July to November 2002)
- SMAP 03 MIJ Tour (July to September 2003)
- SMAP Sample Tour (July to September 2005)
- Pop Up SMAP Tour (July to October 2006)
- super.modern.artistic.performance tour (September to December 2008)
- We are SMAP Concert Tour (July to September 2010)
- Gift of SMAP Concert Tour (August to December 2012)
- Mr.S Saikou de Saikou no Concert Tour (September 2014 to January 2015)
Golden Arrow Award
The Golden Arrow Award,, bestowed by the Japan Magazine Publishers Association, honors outstanding achievements in domestic media. Early in their career, SMAP received two such distinctions.
|- | rowspan="2" | 1991 || rowspan="2" | SMAP || Best Newcomer || |- | Newcomer Award (Music) ||
Japan Gold Disc Award
The Japan Gold Disc Awards, organized by the Recording Industry Association of Japan, have recognized SMAP with fifteen accolades, underscoring their commercial success and influence within the music industry.
|- | 1992 | SMAP | Best 5 New Artist Award | Won |- | rowspan="2"| 1995 | Cool | Album Award | Won |- | Sexy Six Show | Music Video Award | Won |- | 1996 | SMAP 007: Gold Singer | Album Award | Won |- | 1997 | SMAP 008: Taxomax | Album Award | Won |- | 1999 | "Yozora no Mukō" | Song of the Year (Special Award) | Won |- | 2001 | "Lion Heart" | Song of the Year | Won |- | 2002 | SMAP Vest | Pop Album of the Year | Won |- | rowspan="3"| 2004 | "Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana" | Song of the Year | Won |- | Smap! Tour! 2002! | rowspan="3"| Music Video of the Year | Won |- | Live MIJ | Won |- | 2006 | SMAP to Icchatta! SMAP Sample Tour2005 | Won |- | 2007 | Pop Up! SMAP Live | rowspan="2"| Best Music Videos | Won |- | 2009 | SMAP 2008 Super Modern Artistic Performance Tour | Won |- | 2017 | SMAP 25 Years | Album of the Year | Won
Japan Music Award
Presented by the Broadcast Music Producers Federation, the Japan Music Awards celebrate remarkable accomplishments in the recording field. In recognition of their debut, SMAP was honored with the Rookie of the Year award in 1991 for "Can't Stop!! Loving."
|- |1991 || "Can't Stop!! Loving" || Rookie of the Year || Won
Japan Record Award
The Japan Record Awards, granted by the Japan Composer's Association, acknowledge excellence in record production. Notably, SMAP declined their nominations at the event in 2003 for "Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana," emphasizing its message that values individuality above rivalry.
|- | rowspan="2" | 45th Japan Record Awards#2003 || rowspan="2" | "Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana" || Japan Record Award || Declined? |- || Gold Award || Declined?
Publications
- SMAP Super Photo Book The First, October 1992
- SMAP Photo Book Shonenki, June 1993
- SMAP Year Book 1993–1994 Reminiscence, May 1994
- SMAP Year Book 1994–1995 Revival & Evolution, June 1996
- Snap, December 2001
- The SMAP Magazine Super Fashion & Music Assemble Photo Magazine, October 2010
- SMAP×SMAP Complete Book Gekkan SmaSma Shinbun Vol.1 Pink, June 2012
- SMAP×SMAP Complete Book Gekkan SmaSma Shinbun Vol.2 Red, June 2012
- SMAP×SMAP Complete Book Gekkan SmaSma Shinbun Vol.3 Blue, July 2012
- SMAP×SMAP Complete Book Gekkan SmaSma Shinbun Vol.4 Yellow, August 2012
- SMAP×SMAP Complete Book Gekkan SmaSma Shinbun Vol.5 Green, September 2012
See also
External links
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