A visual memoir of a genre that refused to die,
and the journey across decades it took to become a global phenomenon.
The first comprehensive English-language book on City Pop, told from the perspective of the DJ widely credited with helping revive its popularity in the West. This is both a historical archive and a curated listening experience, built year by year to show how a sound once tied to a specific moment in Japan quietly became a global fascination decades later.
The book unfolds chronologically from 1975 through 2026, with each chapter dedicated to a single year. Instead of treating City Pop as a static genre, it is presented as a living timeline: how it emerged, how it shifted, and how its influence spread through artists, producers, fashion, nightlife, and visual culture. Each year includes detailed artist introductions, chart movements, essential releases, compilation notes, and carefully selected playlists that reflect the sound of that moment as accurately as possible.
Beyond the music, it explores the atmosphere around it. The design trends, the city life, the optimism and economic backdrop, and the visual identity that helped define the era. It also traces how rediscovery happened later, showing how online communities, DJs, crate diggers, and streaming culture brought these records back into circulation and reshaped their meaning for a new audience.
The format is intentionally open-ended. You can open the book anywhere and immediately find something useful, whether that is a deep cut recommendation, an artist you have never heard of, or context that reframes a familiar track. It is designed for discovery, not linear reading.
For long-time listeners, it offers structure and depth that has not existed in one place before. For new listeners, it serves as a guided entry point into a catalog that can otherwise feel overwhelming. For collectors and DJs, it functions as a reference built around real listening culture rather than academic distance.
This is a first of its kind release in the West, created for people who already love the sound and for those who are about to discover why it continues to resonate so strongly today.
Support through the Kickstarter to secure access to a limited first edition. Estimated shipping: Winter 2026.
Why support this project?
I bring over a decade of experience with City Pop, including being among the first DJs to present it as a distinct, professionally curated style. My knowledge on the topic is first class.
I’ve met and interviewed key figures associated with the genre, collaborated with major Japanese record labels, and produced official remixes of City Pop tracks. My involvement in the genre is extensive.
My mixes reached millions of listeners and were among the earliest widely circulated City Pop sets online, prior to my YouTube channel being taken down by the Recording Industry Association of Japan in 2019. My song selection is unrivaled.
My writing has been recognized for its distinctive, prose-driven approach blending research with a more expressive, narrative style. In the past two years, my blog has received over 200,000 unique visits. My perspective on the style is truly unique.
All material in the book is supported by cited references, compiled in a detailed index.
The visual design combines original artwork, photography, and illustration to evoke the feel of a timeless record sleeve, something that appears both worn and preserved.
The first edition will be limited, with each copy numbered and signed.
Exclusive perks for first supporters.
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