Here's a little site I've put together to accompany the J-Pop seminar at Zao, to save paper and to help you distinguish your Aya from your Ayu.  There's a lot of good - and mediocre - stuff out there.  J-Pop is not just about adolescent girls singing tinny, high-pitched songs in their school uniform (though it does exist; see Matsuura Aya or Tommy).  There's good rap (Rip Slyme), punky rock (175R), gender-confused rock (Gackt), R&B (early Utada Hikaru) and many female "aidoru" (idols) in different shapes, sizes, and colours.

The list of people featured here is not exhaustive but I've tried to cover most of the recent "big things" to hit Japan.  Then you can surprise your students when you subtly drop a couple of names into your classes or worksheets.  At the same time, remember to talk about who you like at home too - you might find a fellow fan amongst your students.  As for J-Pop, try the Yay! page for starters...

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If you have any questions, please e-mail me at:

Boring and paranoid disclaimer page
My personal site is this way...

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