what is the R&B music scene like in Japan?

[elena09]

I am an American R&B artist and I am planning to visit Japan in the near future to promote my album. I want to know what the R&B and Pop music scenes are like over in Japan?

[Iron Chef]

Very popular I would say. Walk into any major chain like Tower Records for instance and usually the biggest promotions and marketing blitz tend to be for either RnB or Pop. At least where I live anyways. Metal has a tiny little shelf lol stuck in the far back corner. Same with other less popular genres like country for instance. It's also by far the most played in terms of air time over other genres on local FM stations as well I believe.

[elena09]

Thanks so much for the info!!! Do you know of any magazines in Japan that support R&B music?

[Mars Man]

That question about the magazines stumps me every time. I'll stop by the bookstore tomorrow and check them out again. From what I recall, there are not mainstream magazines on only R&B, so . . .

Also, another reason would be, why you, rather than an agent for you, would be seeking out such information. I'll get back tomorrow. (Jpn time)

[elena09]

Well, to your answer question, I am an independent artist. My mother is my manager and I work closely with a publicist and one other partner of mine. Everything i have accomplished thus far has been done because i have researched information and have done things for myself instead of relying on others to do it for me. Plus, when it comes to certain things, I'd just like to know for myself. I'd like to personally get in contact with some publications in Japan. I'm planning to visit soon, so if i could personally get in touch with someone there, I might possibly be able to meet them when I come. I appreciate your help though!

[Mars Man]

Well, I found no magazines related directly towards R&B. The closest was Soul.

That, however, doesn't mean that there aren't any such magizines in Japan, just not at the Matsumoto Parco--which is a fairly up-to-date-like story for the younger market.