What is Citypop? The Sound, the Style, and the Stories Behind Japan’s Musical Gem

Picture a vintage Tokyo skyline, bathed in neon lights and reverberating with the soulful tunes of an era gone by, songs that encapsulate the vibrant optimism and urban melancholy of Japan’s golden age. This intoxicating blend is City Pop. It is a genre that doesn’t merely play as background music but transports you to a time and place, reflecting the heartbeat of 1980s urban Japan with its electrifying energy and poignant undertones.

While the name might imply just another genre on the vast musical spectrum, City Pop is so much more. It’s a journey that fuses origin with aesthetics, a testament to Japan’s knack for embracing global sounds and tailoring them uniquely. Intrigued about its roots or the style that defines it? Stick around as we embark on a sonic exploration into City Pop’s origins, style, and timeless allure.

The Essence and Allure of City Pop

Few genres evoke as much nostalgia and a longing for a time long past as City Pop does. This segment aims to break down this uniquely Japanese music genre’s charm, history, and modern revival.

Tracing Back to the Roots: The Birth and Development of City Pop

In the heart of the late 1970s and 1980s, as Japan basked in the glow of its economic boom, a new genre of music began to take root. City Pop emerged as the soundtrack to urban life, blending elements of jazz, funk, and pop to produce melodies that encapsulated the bustling streets of Tokyo and the promise of metropolitan luxury. It was a reflection of its times: high-tech, aspirational, and drenched in the neon lights of the cityscapes.

Nostalgia’s Call: The Attraction Behind City Pop’s Timeless Tunes

So, what is it about City Pop that draws listeners in, decades after its inception? At its core, City Pop paints a picture of a glamorous urban lifestyle, tinged with a hint of melancholy. These contrasting emotions produce songs that offer both upbeat rhythms and sombre undertones, resonating with the ebb and flow of city life. The lyrics, often speaking of love and urban narratives, provide an intimate glimpse into the lives of those living in Japan’s sprawling cities during an era of great transformation and optimism.

The Rebirth and Resurgence: How City Pop Made a Global Comeback in the 2010s

It’s fascinating to note that while City Pop waned in Japan by the early 1990s, a fresh wave of appreciation began to form overseas nearly two decades later. With the advent of the internet and platforms like YouTube, vintage City Pop tracks began finding new audiences. The genre’s resurgence can also be credited to the vaporwave movement, which sampled many City Pop songs. Furthermore, contemporary artists, both from Japan and globally, started to infuse City Pop elements into their work, introducing this nostalgic sound to a whole new generation. The result? An old yet timeless genre, making waves in a modern world.

Key Pillars in the City Pop Movement

As we venture deeper into the world of City Pop, it becomes evident that specific albums, songs, and artists have played pivotal roles in shaping and defining the movement. Let’s embark on a sonic journey, spotlighting these cornerstones that have crafted the identity of this unique genre.

Diving into Definitive Albums and Songs

Before we dive into the current wave and modern influences, it’s essential to acknowledge and appreciate the seminal works that set the foundation for the City Pop genre.

Pioneering Albums: From Sugar Babe’s ‘Songs’ to Tatsuro Yamashita’s ‘For You’

• Sugar Babe’s ‘Songs’ (1975): A refreshing mix of pop and jazz undertones that encapsulated the budding spirit of City Pop.

• Tatsuro Yamashita’s ‘For You’ (1982): An album brimming with melodies that embody the ethos of the genre; a quintessential listening experience for any City Pop aficionado.

Iconic Singles: Including Mariya Takeuchi’s Plastic Love and Anri’s Last Summer Whisper

• Mariya Takeuchi’s Plastic Love: A song that has taken on a life of its own in recent years, thanks to its viral resurgence. Its infectious rhythm and timeless lyrics make it a City Pop classic.
• Anri’s Last Summer Whisper: A single that captures the balmy essence of summer, synonymous with City Pop’s aesthetic.

The Artists Shaping the Genre

Understanding City Pop is as much about the music as it is about recognising the iconic artists who infused their personalities, tales, and artistry into their work.

Celebrated Musicians: Tatsuro Yamashita, Mariya Takeuchi, and Beyond

• Tatsuro Yamashita: Often termed the ‘King of City Pop’, his influence spans multiple albums and tracks, setting the gold standard for the genre.
• Mariya Takeuchi (married to Tats): While many know her for ‘Plastic Love’, her broader discography is a testament to her versatility and contribution to City Pop.

The New Guard: Modern Interpretations and Artists like Hitomitoi

• Hitomitoi: While she draws inspiration from classic City Pop, her sound has a modern twist, introducing younger audiences to the genre’s magic.
• The emergence of new artists pays homage to traditional City Pop while bringing fresh perspectives, ensuring the genre’s continued relevance and evolution.

Beyond Just Music: City Pop’s Cultural Impact

City Pop, with its distinctive rhythms and moods, is more than just an auditory delight; it’s an emblematic representation of a cultural epoch. Beyond its musical intricacies, the genre has left an indelible mark on various aspects of modern media, fashion, and society at large. In this section, we delve into the expansive influence of City Pop.

City Pop’s Influence on Modern Media and Aesthetics

As City Pop gained traction, its vibes and aesthetics began permeating other forms of media, influencing storytelling, visuals, and even fashion sensibilities.

On-Screen and In Print: How City Pop Has Been Represented in Film and Literature

• Films set in the City Pop era often employ its iconic tracks to transport viewers back in time, evoking a distinct sense of nostalgia.
• Literary works, particularly those exploring urban life in the ’70s and ’80s Japan, have referenced or been inspired by the themes and narratives present in City Pop songs.

A Style Statement: City Pop’s Imprint on Fashion and Visuals

• The vibrant and eclectic fashion of the City Pop era—characterised by bright colours, oversized silhouettes, and a mix of Western and traditional elements—has seen a revival in contemporary streetwear.
• Album art from this genre, with its distinctive pastels, sunsets, and cityscapes, has influenced graphic design and visual art trends.

Themes and Undercurrents: Exploring the Social and Economic Backdrop of City Pop Era

Beneath the upbeat melodies and infectious grooves of City Pop lie deeper narratives reflecting the socio-economic realities of the time.

• The rapid economic growth and urbanisation of Japan during the late ’70s and ’80s provided the perfect backdrop for City Pop’s narratives of love, loss, and city life.
• Songs often grappled with the juxtaposition of traditional Japanese values against the allure of the West, a theme brought on by the increasing globalisation of the period.
• The genre captured the essence of a society in flux, chronicling both the heady optimism of economic boom times and the melancholic introspection that accompanies rapid change.

Discovering Hidden Jewels and Nuances of City Pop

City Pop, with its rich tapestry of sounds and influences, offers a treasure trove for those willing to delve a little deeper. While many have danced to its mainstream hits, there’s an entire world of lesser-known gems and intriguing fusions waiting to be discovered.

The Fusion of Sounds: Shibuya-kei and Other Related Genres

City Pop never existed in isolation. Instead, it was a constantly evolving soundscape that drew from, and contributed to, various other genres, creating a musical melting pot.

Shibuya-kei:

• A sub-genre that emerged in the ’90s, Shibuya-kei took cues from City Pop but added elements of jazz, French pop, and electronic music.
• Artists like Pizzicato Five and Cornelius typify this sound, blending retro influences with modern sensibilities.

Bossanova and Jazz Influences:

Many City Pop tracks exhibit strong Bossanova rhythms and jazz undertones, reflecting Japan’s long-standing love affair with these genres.

The Western Touch:

City Pop frequently incorporated elements from Western pop, rock, and funk, resulting in a unique East-meets-West sonic aesthetic.

City Pop’s Lesser-known Treasures: Delving into Overlooked Albums and Artists

While the genre has its pantheon of celebrated artists and chart-toppers, there’s a wealth of talent that often remains beneath the mainstream radar.

Hidden Albums:

Numerous albums, though not achieving commercial success, are revered by City Pop aficionados for their artistry and innovation.

Unsung Artists:

Beyond the big names, several musicians contributed significantly to the genre without gaining widespread fame. Exploring their discographies can offer fresh perspectives on City Pop.

Modern Revivalists:

A new wave of artists, inspired by classic City Pop, are producing tracks that pay homage to the past while infusing their unique twists.

Streaming and Exploration: Making City Pop Accessible

In today’s digital age, the resonant melodies of City Pop have found new life. Streaming platforms and abundant online resources have ensured that this iconic genre remains not only preserved but also accessible to a global audience eager to experience its charm.

Playlist Recommendations: From Classics to Contemporary Hits

Crafting the perfect playlist is akin to curating a musical journey, and with City Pop, the destinations are virtually limitless. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer, these are the must-have tracks to start your sonic adventure:

• Golden Era Classics: Tracks that defined the genre in its heyday, like Mariya Takeuchi’s ‘Plastic Love’ and Tatsuro Yamashita’s ‘For You’.
• Modern Homages: Contemporary artists such as Hitomitoi, who infuse City Pop influences into their work, providing a fresh take on the iconic sound.
• Deep Dives: Lesser-known but equally enchanting tracks that showcase the genre’s breadth and depth.
• Collaborative Playlists: Engage with the City Pop community by exploring and contributing to collaborative playlists on platforms like Spotify and YouTube.

Resources for the Enthusiastic Listener: Exploring Compilations, Documentaries, and More

The world of City Pop extends far beyond just its melodic offerings. Delve into its history, influence, and enduring appeal through a range of resources:

• Compilations: Albums that bring together the best of City Pop, offering listeners a comprehensive experience of the genre.
• Documentaries: Films that chronicle the rise, decline, and resurgence of City Pop, featuring interviews with key artists and industry insiders.
• Podcasts: Audio programmes delving into the nuances of City Pop, with episode topics ranging from album reviews to in-depth artist profiles.
• Online Forums and Communities: Engage with like-minded fans on platforms like Reddit’s r/citypop, where enthusiasts share tracks, discuss artists, and keep the conversation alive.
• Books and Articles: Literary explorations that offer insights into the socio-cultural backdrop of the City Pop era and its lasting impact.

The Global Embrace of City Pop

City Pop’s undeniable allure has transcended its native Japanese boundaries, captivating listeners and influencing artists worldwide. As it resonates with the global audience, this musical phenomenon finds itself celebrated in unexpected places, from the playlists of global superstars to fervent online communities and dedicated events.

Western Appreciation: From Harry Styles to Internet Subcultures

City Pop has found an enthusiastic audience in the West, where its nostalgic melodies and unique aesthetic are resonating deeply with fans:

• Mainstream Artist Acknowledgement: Icons like Harry Styles have expressed their admiration for City Pop, leading to heightened interest and exploration of the genre by his massive fanbase.
• Internet Subcultures: Platforms like YouTube and Reddit play host to burgeoning communities dedicated to sharing, discussing, and celebrating City Pop.
• Memes and Virality: Tracks like Mariya Takeuchi’s ‘Plastic Love’ have achieved meme status, garnering millions of views and introducing the genre to new listeners.
• Crossover with V A P O R W A V E: An internet-born genre, V A P O R W A V E, often samples City Pop tracks, further amplifying its reach among digital natives.

City Pop Festivals and Events: Celebrating the Genre Worldwide

The genre’s global appreciation has given rise to events that provide a tangible space for fans to celebrate and immerse themselves in City Pop:

• International Concerts and Tours: Recognising the global demand, artists from the City Pop era have embarked on international tours, delighting fans across continents.
• City Pop-Themed Nights: Clubs and venues in cities from London to Los Angeles host City Pop-themed nights, where enthusiasts can groove to their favourite tunes.
• Festivals and Dedicated Events: Special events that exclusively celebrate City Pop, often featuring a line-up of renowned and emerging artists, as well as other related activities.
• Merchandise and Memorabilia: The boom in popularity has led to a surge in City Pop merchandise, from vinyl reissues to themed apparel.

In this age of globalisation, it’s a testament to City Pop’s timeless appeal that it has found a place in the hearts of listeners from all walks of life, proving that music, in its purest form, knows no boundaries.

Concluding Thoughts: The Timeless Charm of City Pop

As our exploration of City Pop draws to a close, one can’t help but be enamoured by the timeless melodies, evocative themes, and the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped this unique genre. It’s a musical style that’s as captivating today as it was during its heyday, a testament to its enduring allure.

City Pop’s distinctive sound, a blend of past and present, offers listeners an unparalleled experience:

• Nostalgic Allure: The music evokes a bygone era, inviting listeners to travel back in time and experience the glitz and glamour of 1980s Japan.
• Modern Interpretations: New artists and producers continue to be influenced by City Pop, adding contemporary spins and ensuring the genre’s evolution.
• Themes of Urban Life and Romance: The themes of City Pop—love, life in the city, and the pursuit of dreams—are universal, making the music relatable to audiences across generations.
• Global Resurgence: The digital age, especially platforms like YouTube, has played a pivotal role in introducing City Pop to a global audience, further solidifying its timeless appeal.

As old fans reminisce and new ones discover, the genre’s melodies continue to play, echoing in the hearts of many, a timeless testament to its undying charm.

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