Anna Takeuchi discovers the power of positive pop
While many musicians embraced the glum stagnation of the COVID years, Anna Takeuchi chose to take those lemons and make lemonade with her new album, 'Tickets.'
Eve's hourlong music video sums up J-pop in 2022
Billed as a 'live in animation,' 'Adam by Eve' reflects a trend among young artists using animation filled with references and in-jokes to enhance their music.
Sky-Hi: Taking up the fight for artistic freedom
The artist-turned-talent agency CEO says Japan’s music industry needs a major modern makeover.
Ado brings a flair for the dramatic to ‘Kyogen’
The rebellious teenage J-pop singer brings the sonic palette of the Japanese Vocaloid community to the mainstream and shows off her vocal versatility on her debut album, “Kyogen.”
‘Bad Mode’ delivers some of the best songs of Hikaru Utada’s career
Hikaru Utada’s eighth full-length album is full of introspection, with the artist working on their personal growth and coming away with a better sense of self.
A J-pop origin story set in SixTones
The six-member Johnny's act marks two years of many firsts such as appearing on the YouTube channel The First Take and working with established artists such as Yoshiki and Daiki Tsuneta.
What can we expect from J-pop in 2022?
Ditch the downer sounds of 2021 for brighter bops, Shibuya-kei and breakout hits via TikTok.
Upon news of the marriage, television personality Shingo Katori released a simple statement asking for the support of his fans.
JO1 to the world: A new stage for J-pop
The 11-member act signals the rise of reality TV talent competitions geared toward the social media age.
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu: The reluctant icon?
For the better part of a 10-year career, the performer's aesthetic defined Japan's pop culture. Her latest album, “Candy Racer,” marks a fresh start.
Japanese singer Ayumi Hamasaki taken to hospital due to anaphylactic shock
Although Ayumi Hamasaki, 43, fell unconscious temporarily, her life is not in danger from a severe allergic reaction, Avex Management Inc. said on her official website.
‘Fanatic’ documentary deals with what happens when your favorite K-pop star breaks bad
A new documentary film titled “Fanatic” explores the world of K-pop fandom. Can it also teach us something about the fans of J-pop stars?
