jpop

J-pop refers to Japanese pop music produced for the Japanese market or by Japanese artists. The term gained prominence in the 1990s as an umbrella for contemporary mainstream pop, distinguishing it from earlier forms such as kayōkyoku. Its scope includes a wide range of styles produced in Japan, from upbeat dance tracks to melodic ballads, and it incorporates influences from Western pop and electronic music. Its roots lie in earlier Japanese popular music, including city pop and late-20th-century idol culture.

History and industry: J-pop developed within a commercial system built around major record labels, music television, and the idol phenomenon. Large groups, produced by talent agencies, and solo artists guided by producers helped define the sound and image. The Oricon charts and televised music programs established success metrics, while music videos and live performances expanded reach domestically and abroad.

Style and characteristics: The genre covers pop, dance-pop, synth-pop, R&B-influenced ballads, and more. Lyrics are primarily in Japanese, with occasional English phrases. Production often emphasizes hook-laden melodies, polished arrangements, and glossy imagery. The use of electronic production and cross-genre collaborations has been common since the 1990s.

Global presence: J-pop has a global fanbase, aided by anime, film, streaming, and social media. Some artists release English-language material or collaborate with international producers to reach wider audiences, though the core market remains Japan.

Notable names: Hikaru Utada, Ayumi Hamasaki, Namie Amuro, Arashi, AKB48, and Morning Musume are among widely recognized figures.