Peter Schwarz

Musikindustrie in Japan

A look at music and business in Japan opens up a view of unique structures and different consumer habits. The Japanese music market is considered the second largest in the world and is little known territory for Western musicians and music companies. This is because it differs in its structure and characteristics to a large extent from Western markets. The Japanese consumer, with his specific characteristics, is a decisive factor here. In addition, the local media have a decisive influence on the music business in their own way. Although there are strong influences of western music styles, the market is primarily determined by national productions. The various forms of popular music often have a typical Japanese characteristic. With the help of figures on the Japanese music market, the reader is given a well-founded insight into the market and Japanese consumer habits. First of all, the wide range of music available in Japan will be examined on the basis of the relevant music genres. In particular, genres that are little known in Western markets will be considered. This insight will give the reader a deeper understanding of the cultural and economic characteristics of the country.