The Japanese City Pop genre has had a significant influence on Korean pop music. It originated in Japan during the late 1970s and early 1980s and was characterized by its smooth, mellow sounds and sophisticated lyrics. The genre was heavily influenced by American jazz and R&B music, and it quickly became popular in Japan.
Korean pop music, or K-pop, has been heavily influenced by Japanese music throughout its history. Japan has been a major source of musical inspiration for Korea, and many K-pop artists have covered Japanese songs or been influenced by Japanese musical styles.
One of the most significant ways that the Japanese City Pop genre has affected Korean pop music is through its influence on the production of K-pop music. Korean producers have drawn heavily on the sound and style of Japanese City Pop, incorporating its smooth, mellow sounds into K-pop songs.
The Japanese City Pop genre has also had an impact on the lyrics of K-pop songs. The genre’s sophisticated lyrics often deal with themes such as love, relationships, and the challenges of modern life. Korean lyricists have been inspired by this approach and have incorporated similar themes into K-pop songs.
Another way that the Japanese City Pop genre has influenced K-pop is through its fashion and aesthetics. The genre’s artists were known for their stylish and sophisticated looks, and this has had an impact on K-pop fashion. Many K-pop artists have adopted a similar look, with a focus on sleek, modern styles.
Overall, the Japanese City Pop genre has had a significant impact on Korean pop music, influencing everything from its sound and lyrics to its fashion and aesthetics. Its influence can be seen in the work of many K-pop artists, and it continues to shape the direction of the genre to this day.
Source:
- “How Japanese City Pop Influenced Modern Pop Music” by Andrew Martin, Pitchfork, May 2021.
