Music of Japan | 日本の音楽

Japan’s music has gone through a lot of changes throughout the history and it has taken in some outside elements. Traditionally there are two main historic forms of Japanese music that date back into its history those are; shomyo(buddhist chanting) and gagaku( orchestral music). Even in the old period japan had music theatres that promoted its music, these theatres are still there for the tourist and outside visitors to enjoys. Noh theatre is one of most famous one which was built in the 14th century. After the end of the WWII, Japan saw the rise of enka music genre. This rise was led by Shinichi Mori and Keiko Fuji. These two japanese musical led this genre to its heights however the 1960’s saw the fall of enka music genre in Japan and rise of Rock music in Japan. Rock music in Japan was inspired by western influence. Bands like The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Queen, Led Zeppelin had the most influence. The influence of all these rock bands gave birth to “Visual kei” in Japan. “Visual kei” is rock that focuses on dark themes and their aesthetics. Major bands that rose in the Visual kei genre were Japan X, Luna Sea, Gackt. This music slowing became popular around the Globe with some of the artists touring Worldwide.

In 1990’s, the international pop music reached Japan and gave birth to “Jpop”. “Jpop” takes some elements from kpop like choosing talent for the idol groups and training them. Companies like Avex and Johnny’s associates do this. All the music on Japanese itunes charts is from Jpop. Japanese people the main firsthand listeners of the Jpop music but since Japanese anime has reached all around the world, Jpop reaches the rest of world through  anime and movies. Jpop is incorporated highly into animes with their opening and ending themes. Some of the most famous Jpop bands and singers have had their used in anime like liSA who’s music is used in all sorts of anime, tosite ling sigure from dark animes, Burnout syndrome from sports anime and many more. All these bands are well known internationally through anime.