The worldwide hit single, “Telephone”, by Lady Gaga featuring Beyonce, is doing the rounds again on the Internet. Only this time, it’s a Japanese version, featuring two traditional instruments: the koto (Japanese harp) and the shakuhachi (Japanese flute). The duo behind the cool cover are a couple of little monsters who go by the name of Team Kozan. Not only have they created an awesome rendition of the pop single, they’ve made a cool video clip too; filmed at Suga Shrine in Shinjuku, it mixes up Gaga dance moves with the sights and sounds of traditional Japan. See why the world is raving about it after the jump.

Team Kozan explains their reasons for creating the Japanese-style arrangement and video clip:

“Two years ago, after the terrible earthquake, we Japanese received a lot of support and encouragement from Lady Gaga. Now, we want to return the favour by supporting and encouraging Lady Gaga after her recent hip surgery. We hope she returns to performing soon.”

The clip is so eye-catching and original that its popularity is slowly spreading across the world.

Here’s what some Japanese viewers had to say:

“This is Japanese-style awesome” “Props to the middle-aged guy; I didn’t see those dance moves coming!” “I like this better than the original!” “I got goosebumps!” “The musical arrangement is great but their performance was mind-blowing!”

Here’s what foreigners thought of the clip:

“Love it!” (Vietnam) “This is the best! I like it better than the original!” (USA) “Where can I buy this single?” (USA) “This is amazing! I’ve never heard a Gaga song like this before!” (Taiwan) “This is so interesting to watch! Superior to the original!” (Canada)

The Japanese cover version of “Telephone” is a perfect fusion of East and West, traditional and modern. We think they’ve done Mother Monster proud.

▼ Check out Gaga’s original version below. Which one do you prefer?



[ Read in Japanese ]