Japanese music has undergone significant changes over the years, with traditional styles like enka (ballads) and traditional folk music giving way to modern J-pop and J-rock. Today, Japanese pop music is a major force in the entertainment industry, with artists like Ayumi Hamasaki, Utada Hikaru, and Arashi achieving huge success both domestically and internationally.
—which collectively generated 5.7 trillion yen in exports in 2023. 日本経済新聞 Cultural Pillars and Global Appeal Japanese music has undergone significant changes over the
Beyond Anime and Nintendo: A Look Inside Japan’s Dynamic Entertainment Industry not radio airplay.
The concept of "Idols you can meet" (会えるアイドル) is revolutionary. Groups like AKB48 popularized the "handshake event." Fans buy multiple copies of a single CD to receive tickets allowing them 10 seconds of face time with their favorite member. In 2023, AKB48’s single sales routinely topped 1 million units—driven entirely by fan loyalty, not radio airplay. with artists like Ayumi Hamasaki