The evolution of J-POP and current trends: From idols to solo artists

2025.06.28

The Evolution and Current Trends of J-POP: From Idols to Solo Artists

J-POP is a significant genre representing the Japanese music scene, and its evolution and transformation are quite fascinating. In the 1960s, influenced by The Ventures and The Beatles, it began to form as a unique Japanese pop music. Later, in the 1970s, the evolution of technology and media contributed to its growth, and by the 1990s, the internet era had arrived. This led J-POP to develop into a multi-layered and diverse music scene.

Today, platforms like YouTube and TikTok are being utilized, with new talents emerging one after another. Particularly, from idol groups to solo artists, there is a noticeable trend of captivating listeners with diverse expressions. In addition to large groups like EXILE and Arashi, artists like Aimyon and Kenshi Yonezu, who write and compose their own music, are also gaining attention.

In this way, J-POP continues to garner support both domestically and internationally, drawing a path to the next stage through diversity and innovation. Let’s explore what kind of evolution awaits in the future.

The Evolution of J-POP and Its Historical Background

J-POP has uniquely evolved as a form of Japanese pop music. Its roots trace back to the 1960s. During this period, foreign artists like The Ventures and The Beatles gained popularity in Japan, and groups like The Tigers and The Spiders formed a unique Japanese music scene through group sounds. These had a significant influence on the formation of J-POP.

The Path to Establishing J-POP from the 1970s to the 1990s

Since the 1970s, Japan’s music industry rapidly developed due to technological and media advancements. During this period, karaoke became widespread, embedding a culture of everyday singing. By the 1990s, the term “J-POP” became common, with artists like Southern All Stars and Yumi Matsutoya becoming representatives of this genre. This era was characterized by diverse melodies and rhythms, and songs with a tempo influenced by Western music.

The Shift from Idol Groups to Solo Artists

From the late 1990s to the early 2000s, new idol groups emerged one after another. Large idol groups like Morning Musume and AKB48 gained attention through fan-participation events like handshake meetings. Simultaneously, a new type of solo artist, such as Hikaru Utada and Ringo Sheena, began to rise.

The Digital Revolution and the Age of Social Media

Entering the 21st century, as internet technology evolved, the methods of music distribution dramatically changed. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Spotify became places for discovering new talents, with many young artists breaking through from here. Additionally, through social media, the distance with fans has shortened, allowing for more intimate relationships.

Current Trends: Diversity and Creativity

As of 2024, the J-POP scene, which is gaining attention both domestically and internationally, is characterized by diversity and creativity. Not only are existing groups like EXILE and Arashi taking on new challenges, but new artists are also emerging one after another. Solo artists like Aimyon and Kenshi Yonezu continue to captivate listeners with their unique styles.

Influence on Overseas Markets

In recent years, J-POP has been spreading its charm beyond borders. There are increasing cases where it becomes popular in other countries, and it is being appreciated as part of Japanese culture as a whole. This trend includes exchanges with Korean K-POP, and by stimulating each other, an even richer music scene is being created.

Conclusion: Prospects for the Future

Given the historical background and current trends discussed above, it is certain that the J-POP genre will continue to diversify in the future. Furthermore, it will be innovated through digital transformation, contributing to the discovery of new talents. It will be exciting to see what new stars will emerge in this process.

The Evolution of J-POP and Its Background

Q1: How has J-POP evolved?

A1: J-POP originated from enka in the early 1990s. It then shifted to a style emphasizing rhythm and groove, with Southern All Stars and B’z becoming its symbols. In the 2000s, idol groups rose to prominence, with AKB48 and Arashi gaining popularity. From the 2010s onwards, the activities of solo artists began to stand out. Artists like Kenshi Yonezu and Gen Hoshino have brought a new breeze.

Q2: What are the current J-POP trends?

A2: Currently, J-POP is progressing in the fusion with various genres. Music styles influenced by overseas, such as electronica and hip-hop, are also being incorporated. Additionally, promotion strategies utilizing digital platforms like social media and YouTube have become important. Through these new distribution methods, many emerging artists are gaining attention.

The Transition from Idols to Solo Artists

Q3: How has idol culture changed?

A3: From the late 2000s to the early 2010s, large idol groups like AKB48 were mainstream. However, in recent years, there has been a shift away from that format, with an increase in small units and groups with unique concepts. Additionally, some members have transitioned to solo activities, succeeding with new styles.

Q4: How can one succeed as a solo artist?

A4: To succeed as a solo artist, it is important to establish one’s own musicality and value communication with fans. By utilizing social media for fan interaction and showcasing uniqueness through live performances, it is possible to gain significant support. Furthermore, enhancing one’s brand power is also crucial.

Prospects for the Future

Q5: What direction do you think the future of J-POP will take?

A5: J-POP will continue to diversify. Especially from an international perspective, it is expected that a new J-POP scene will be formed through the fusion of unique Japanese culture and new elements adopted from around the world. Additionally, with the evolution of digital technology, further musical experiences will become possible, and new forms of expression are expected to emerge one after another. In this context, it will become a recognized presence not only in Japan but also worldwide.

Summary: The Development and Future of J-POP

J-POP was formed as a unique Japanese pop music influenced by The Ventures and The Beatles in the 1960s. Subsequently, from the 1970s to the 1990s, with the evolution of technology and media, J-POP was established as a major genre. Artists like Southern All Stars and Yumi Matsutoya represent this period.

With the advent of the internet era, the methods of music distribution changed dramatically. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok became places for discovering new talents, with many young artists emerging. This trend has also shortened the distance with fans, allowing for more intimate relationships.

Today, diverse music styles coexist from idol groups to solo artists, with unique artists like Aimyon and Kenshi Yonezu gaining attention. Additionally, its popularity is increasing in overseas markets, contributing to the overall evaluation of Japanese culture. Given this background, the J-POP scene will continue to diversify, with new talents emerging one after another. It will be further innovated through digital transformation, and the birth of new stars is anticipated.