What is j pop?

J-pop, also known as Japanese pop, refers to popular music originating from Japan. It is a genre of music that has been popular in Japan since the 1990s and is typically upbeat, with catchy melodies and lyrics that often reflect a youthful, upbeat attitude. J-pop artists also tend to feature elaborate and colorful visuals similar to that of K-pop, Japan’s neighboring music industry.

While J-pop is primarily sung in Japanese, it has gained popularity outside of Japan as well, with fans tuning in to streaming platforms and attending concerts across the world. Prominent J-pop artists include AKB48, Perfume, Utada Hikaru, and Babymetal. The J-pop music industry also includes various sub-genres such as Visual Kei (a style of music with flamboyant costuming and makeup, usually performed by male bands), Shibuya Kei (a sub-genre of J-pop that is characterized by a fusion of techno-pop, bossa nova, and jazz), and anime songs (songs that are featured in Japanese anime).

J-pop is an essential part of the country's culture, and it is often used as a tool for promoting tourism, entertainment, and showcasing the modern culture of Japan.