Hey guys! I'm aware this topic might be slightly controversial to some of you and I'd like to know your opinions as well, but plz keep things constructive and civil in the comments😂 One thing I want to add, a lot of artists when they reach mainstream, their music tends to become safe and uninspired, but I really appreciate AG! for doubling down on their ideologies.
As an overseas AG! fan, I do not care so much if they will have many hit songs like Otona blue. They are doing great with their current songs right now. And it's not just their music that hooked me. It's their totality...their uniqueness, huge personality, authenticity, positive energy, epic live performances and charismatic way in connecting with the audience especially my favorite girl Suzuka. Another point, her deep and rich voice adds to the uniqueness of their vocal quality. Japanese music is so saturated with high pitch female voices that's why Suzuka's voice is a welcome diversity. I'm rooting for you ATARASHII GAKKO!🔥🔥🔥🔥
Like I mentioned in the video, they have a lot of great songs, but for most Japanese non-fans, there's only OTONABLUE. Idk about domestically but they are already bigger internationally so yes I agree they'll stay on top until they stop.
as a westerner when i first saw the first concert videos of atarashii gakko i didnt know of otona blue . all i saw was 4 talented girls perfoming and i was amazed of their dedication and talent . who cares if they are a one hit wonders. they are unique and different from the rest . thats more important
I’m a new fan who started to listen to their music after seeing their performance at Coachella. I had heard of AG! via tiktok with their more popular songs otonablue and Tokyo calling, but what really pulled me in was their high energy performances their unique personas. I’ve been going back and listening to their early stuff and honestly I like all of it lol. I think it’s fair to say that now that they’ve gone more international they’re appealing to that wider market but I feel like they are in a stage where they can only go up. They have the potential, the sound and uniqueness to be a very successful group. P.S. loved your vid! My favorite song from theirs right now is also SEISHUN WO KIRISAKU HADO. I hope they release more songs with that strong rock sound.
I’ve only read the title but gosh, I hope not. These girls are ridiculously talented and hardworking and have been at it for almost a decade. Suzuka has a truly one of a kind voice, it’s not often I hear women with such deep and rich voices, much less in gen z. Ughhh I love them so much I want them to have all the success in the world 😭
One thing I don't think you need to worry about is their future, even if you ignore their Japanese fanbase, just international alone should be able to deem them as successful. This video is more about the view of Japanese general public.
@@Kushunjpop ah, that makes sense. You’re right, they’ve already achieved more than many could ever hope to dream for. I’m totally looking forward to their future, bc they 100% are a group that’s going to have to adapt and change while still staying true to their roots which will be interesting to see
IMO Otonablue is more of a gateway song to get introduced to AG and explore their other great stuff. PSY's 'Gangnam Style" was a perfect example for a "gateway song". He didn't have another hit like GS but still getting loads of new fans through that one song. Folks who had never heard of k-pop got introduced to it through this song and went on to try other artists. Vintage J-pop Songs like "Plastic love" and "Stay With Me" went viral decades later and brought Mariya Takeyuchi and Miki Matsubara back in to spotlight along with the renewed interest in 80's j-pop. I think in this attention seeking market all an artist need is one viral hit to get people's attention and AG has got a solid discography coupled with high energy live performances to keep folks hooked in just like PSY. Can AG give another hit bigger than Otonablue? May be..with the right collaboration, a good music-video along with Social Media promotion they could come up with a new hit song if not then Otonablue will continue to serve as AG's gateway song.
Amazingly said! I contemplated using PSY as an example but decided to stick with J-pop. They definitely has the platform to have another OTONABLUE esque hit, I think it's more down to if they want to go that route, which is understandable but ever so slightly uncharacteristic.
I'm so happy your channel exists ! I've been looking for good discussion and explanations on the modern Jpop topic for ages ! I find the genre fascinating and worthy of a dedicated channel ! Thank you so much for your work, I whole heartedly encourage you to keep shedding light on artists ! I confess I've been craving any english speaking videos about Hoshino Gen. Keep up the good work !
I don't think so, after all their popularity has only grown from the time they were introduced to the world outside of Japan, they are the only "idol" group that I give any attention to, also the only "jazz" type of music that I will listen to, also the first song that I ever heard from them was koinosyadanki not Otana blue, and I was immediately smitten, so as far as I'm concerned, they're doing something I like, I wish them all the success in the world.
Thank you for sharing. Yea I agree with that, their popularity on the international stage is growing rapidly. This video is just an observation about how casuals might see them in Japan. I'm glad you're enjoying their music!
Big AG fan! Their music is so diverse, I can't see their material ever getting old. I wish all 4 of the girls long successful careers, no matter what direction they go. 1 Hit Wonder, my a$$, all their songs are great.
Like I said, it's simply by the views of the general public who doesn't know them as fans do😂 At the same time other's opinions shouldn't matter as long as you enjoy their music👍
Interesting video, thank you. On the one hand, of course, I don't much care whether they transcend the one hit wonder tag in Japan, so long as they continue to produce good music and performances. On the other, I want to see them continue to evolve and develop great music. I agree that some of their strongest songs as songs are in their earlier period, but I don't believe that their shift towards a more international market means that their material will necessarily suffer in terms of quality. I think they are still finding their feet and the extent to which they can shape their own material directly. Give them time. I don't think they'll ever leave their Japanese roots entirely. Oh, and I thought their recent collaboration with Sheena Ringo (though more a Suzuka vehicle than an AG! show case) was terrific. I'll be talking about that on my own channel shortly. Thanks again!
Bro Otonablue is not the only hit AG has there are other like - Omakase Fly High Pineapple Kryptonite (remix) Change Essa Hoisa And don't even understand Japanese or even try to understand the lyrics still I enjoy their songs so I don't think they are going anywhere.
Thank for commenting. By hit I mean songs that are as popular as OTONABLUE in Japan, which they are not quite there yet. And yes only direction they're going is up.
Cool video, thanks. I'm also not the biggest fan of their new album or the direction they've taken since "Tokyo calling" but I sure hope AG! will stay around for a long time since I assume (hope...) that they'll change their style a couple of times again in the future. 🙂
I'll add my voice to the chorus of, "well, in terms of my enjoyment, I do not care one whit about chart success" and maybe only then to the extent that it allows the creative artists I like to continue their careers and find a career path that sustains them in the long-term and adds to the culture. Devo was a one-hit wonder in the US, and Mark Mothersbaugh has had a huge career in Hollywood writing music that then appeared in many cultural touchstones. AG! will be fine. Part of their appeal is that they are open to a wide range of influences. My guess is that long-term, Suzuka will become a tarento, and Mizyu a producer. But I am hoping for many more years of their trying stuff as they have been. (It's always good to have random clips of Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu aka Full-Time Wife Escapist on Netflix in one's video essay. The point was well made, but not something I expected in a video about AG!.)
AG! certainly has a big enough fanbase that they can afford to not have another hit, plus I would argue their biggest appeal isn't even their music. I don't know about individually, but even if the general public has moved on from OTONABLUE, their cultural impact on the Japanese idol industry or even music industry, in terms of their success overseas without the help of anime should be everlasting. Totally agree with your take on the members' future. Very interested to see how they change their approach when they reach 30s. Thank you! I definitely got carried away editing that part of the video.
It's interesting that you mention DEVO, as I often think there are real parallels between them and AG! (beyond the use of uniforms). DEVO formed in a time when there was a blithe belief that things were bound to get better, because that was the great promise of capitalism. DEVO didn't see it that way (the reasons for their radicalisation are a matter of record) and spent years trying to warn anyone who'd listen that it was all going to end badly. That was usually unhelpfully interpreted by critics as a pose of edgy cynicism, right up to the point when it became apparent that, in the words of The Attery Squash, "DEVO was right about everything." Now we have AG!, whose recurrent message is "Things are garbage right now, but they don't have to stay that way," and espouse (say it quietly) collective action, in essence taking the baton for what happens next. So, ultimately, I think the vibe DEVO and AG! share is that they're both political in outlook, even if that's not obvious at first glance. Oh, and both groups do really good videos. Sorry, didn't intend this to turn into a TED Talk, but here we are.
@@scttschlz I love the idea of Mizyu as a producer. Apart from being my favorite AG, I guess I relate to her most because even if she's just in the background, you know she's a strong creative force in the group.
@@jinggaddi I love that song. It does have that DEVOlutionary quirkiness to it, and it also gives Mizyu the lead and a grand opportunity to go full chaos goblin, bless her.
Interesting topic. Often groups end up as a one hit wonder internationally, while being very successful in their home country (many examples of popular UK groups being one hit wonders in the US). Babymetal might be a good example of that too, Gimmie Chocolate being their one viral western hit, but they seem to be maintaining a solid popularity base back home. Given AG's recent western focus it would be interesting if they flipped that and found more mainstream success outside of Japan than within. Could be recency bias, but it already even seems like Tokyo Calling got more attention in the anglosphere than Otonablue did. Nice tease at the end. "How can he possibly know one youtube channel we all watch? Oh yea, that one." 😆
Hey welcome back! Only other example I can think of right top of my head is BLACKPINK being more popular in US than Korea. I think that really shows how different mainstream music is between Japan and Western, also it definitely helps that it was the first single post-OTONABLUE and they went on Jimmy Kimmel. Glad you liked the tease, worth putting in "Dream lantern" for a copyright claim lol.
Babymetal seems a poor example. They have more international listeners now than ever, a US Billboard #1 song this year, a sold out US (and Asian and European) tour, more festival appearances in Europe than ever before this year, etc.
I went to a recent concert from them and i went with ppl who have not listened to their music, they thought it was confusing with how much the genre shifts and they wished there was a built in transition for the lyrics. They also felt like Kanon got the least amount of attention from the fans. I find it interesting how Superhuman was supposed to be their international focused song according to their interview with the Zack Show. Im pretty sure its one of the lower performing song.
yes, but only in a sense that you count EVERY song as an individual...seriously have you not been listening to their music? every song a banger, toured multiple countries. saying they're one hit is seriously an insult
Thank you for commenting. I've mentioned that it's not about what fans like, but what non-fans know, and right now the GP only knows about OTONABLUE, ergo one-hit. And consider their special situation with being more popular overseas, I'd reckon the notion one-hit wonder means even less.
@@Kushunjpop I also love Seishun wo kirosakuhado for it's the perfect balance of chaotic energy and subtle grace that AG are best known for. My first foray into AG was via Tokyo Calling, which really got my attention. Then Toryanse got me even more interested, for I loved how they fused traditional Japanese concepts with modern aesthetics. But I would say it was really Otonablue First Take version which definitely sealed the AG deal for me. That performance was the perfect platform for AG to be introduced internationally. From there, I went deep into the AG rabbit hole and was so pleased to discover their diverse discography. I really love despite their being genre chameleons, all their songs still have that unique AG sound which cuts across all of their released albums and EPs. From your discussion on whether AG are "one hit wonders," I somehow get the impression that for you it doesn't really matter as being a "one hit wonder" is a public perception which shouldn't really affect one's appreciation of a particular artist. I actually share the same sentiment. I mean I'm sure there are listeners who think The Beatles or The Clash are one hit wonders, but what the heck, right? The Beatles and The Clash produced classic albums like Abbey Road and London Calling, despite being known for "Love Me Do" and "Should I Stay or Should I Go?". What I like about AG is how they handled this "one hit wonder-ness" and used it as a platform for the listening public to discover more about them as artists in the hopes of garnering genuine fans. Anyway, I've already said a mouthful. Again, thank you for the very introspective musical analysis of AG. Will look forward to more. Peace out!
Seishun Wo Kirisaku Hado feels so much like an anime song. I do hope they dont lose their Japanese focus on culture in more of their albums, but tbh I'm a fan, I'll keep supporting them because their energy is great regardless. I think their songs are just a vehicle for their performances which are really awesome.
I have never cared if a band had a hit or not, and usually the song that they get a hit with I don't particularly like anyways (Looking at you The Cure's "Friday I'm In Love"). Though Otona Blue is an ok song, I don't think AG even expected it to get that big, being that they didn't even release an official MV for it until after the First Take performance. I do agree that the new album is, um, odd. Though I do disagree about one thing, it is very J-pop, just not modern j-pop. Some tracks (hero show and superhuman) almost remind me of Puffy Ami Yumi, and there is some enka thrown in on some tracks which seem out of place for the rest of the song. The only thing that is not mainstream j-pop is Suzuka's voice not being high pitched and nasally like most idol bands seem to do. Though I do care for AG's success mostly because in the modern music industry, streaming is making it difficult for smaller or non-mainstream bands to thrive.
In an interview they did say they were hoping OTONABLUE would be their breakout song, hence they kept featuring it. But yea definitely not to that degree. Personally I think what makes the album sound less J-pop to me is the production. Excluding Vocal P songs and K-pop/Pop influenced songs, J-pop productions are often rather raw with their instruments and recordings. But AG Calling's is so well-produced to a point I feel like it's almost over-produced😅 Also yea SUZUKA's voice doesn't fit the idols mold, but we're definitely seeing more mainstream female singers with deeper voices, which I prefer.
@@Kushunjpop That's a salient point about overproduction. I was trying to pin down exactly why I like most individual songs, but as a whole it did feel like an American pop album. Also much agreement on Kanon's voice. My Favorite AG song is a commercial they did where Kanon is the only one singing. th-cam.com/video/Nr2SGMi7bEo/w-d-xo.html Fortunately I don't know Japanese well enough to understand the lyrics enough to know she is singing about stain free clothes.
@@roberthradek7100 Kanon’s lyrics “Mizu Mo Hajiku Yo Ii Onna” A fine water-repellent woman A fine woman who isn’t deterred by rain But who is nonetheless juicy A fine water-repellent woman A fine woman who isn’t deterred by rain But who is nonetheless juicy Zero Pressure (Suits!) Zero Pressure (Suits!) Suits are Aoyama Repels water drops Suits are Aoyama Ahhhhh… (Voiceover: Atarashii Businesswear No Leaders. A fine water-repellent woman. Zero Pressure suits)
Greetings from Italy. I agree with everything explained in your video, I also noticed the changes, but what I miss at most is the jazzy style of the first albums (and I am not into jazz at all!). I have the feeling that they are pointing towards 'easy-listening-world-pop' songs to catch more international appeal, while maintaining their identity. Anyway, they are so young that nothing is precluded, and I strongly believe that AG is one of the groups that will make J-pop explode in Europe. Nothing is written yet, we have an example in Babymetal career: two pop-metal albums, one evolved, then a turn into a really dark synth-metal with the fourth one....people got crazy, the fun has gone forever...then, their are back with the goofiest, funniest and 'ignorant' style ever. So, AG are shining now and we european still don't know the J-pop rumbling incoming!
Thank you for the comment. I don't really listen to Jazz as well but I love that part of their catalogue as well. Yes! Can't wait to see what more different style they'll bring to their music.
I agree wholeheartedly about Babymetal, and they were headed my way on tour as I was losing interest last year. I was saddened at my lack of excitement. Then they dropped Metali, and were shown as a true trinity again, having fun! And they have continued trending upward since. I went to the show and had a blast! I also agree about AG, and your views on the earlier, diverse and jazzy music. The newer western hip-hop is the kind of music I look to my eastern artists to help me escape. Now, they are heading my way also, and I am torn about going to see them.
I appreciate your insights, Kushun. It's funny, not one of your top 5 makes it to my top 5 list. Yes, I am part of the international audience and yes, I was introduced to Atarasii Gakko! through Otonablue. But it wasn't the music or even the lyrics that captivated me. It was their stage presence, lack of inhibition, and clear sense of unbridled fun (all in the all-white room of First Take). Since then, I have fallen in love with their manifesto and their personalities more than the music. I've never been much of a music listener, rarely buying any and almost never going to concerts. So it is nice to hear a music-lover's perspective on their discography. I have no problem disagreeing with you even as I value your insights. As you say, music is subjective. But Atarashii Gakko's awesomeness is not. They are objectively awesome, and I will fight you if you disagree. 🤣
Thank you for the comment. Nope! I will fight beside you if anyone thinks they're not awesome. I love we have different top 5s, just proves how many great songs they have👍
Ok. Your opening up a massive topic here. Where to start. Lets go back a generation shall we. The Japanese music industry is huge. Historically Japanese pop music apart from other countries relatively close geographically and musically, has never exported well. With so much to earn at home and a product that did not span the oceans there really was no need for Japans pop stars to look far from home. Over the last twenty odd years only Babymetal has relatively successfully catered to an international market . That did not affect their popularity at home in fact success overseas is a big thing back home and if anything that increased there profile back home and led to a Kohaku appearance as well as two nights at the Dome. I think the global rise of K Pop is also a factor as two K Pop bands now sit on top of the pile as the two biggest bands on the planet . I think it shows what can be done. Also I think home tastes may have become more refined. The days when cute girls lip synched to sugarypoppy stuff does not really cut it anymore. I can remember Tokyo being a sea of AKB48 just ten years ago. How has that changed !! Audiences want to hear live music and vocals. Japanese pop is evolving and becoming more westernised. It's not just AG but Ado and Yoasabi are making waves away from home but still selling out big venues back home. In short I think you are utterly incorrect. Ok, AG are changing musically but all bands do that over a period of time yet there output still remains diverse. There rise at home remains on a very fast track to being ''A'' listers. In just the few months since Otonablue went viral there faces are all over billboards across Japans biggest Cities with a slew of quirky ads. They played an 8K seater. Appeared on Kohaku and then sold out The Budokan. They are currently touring Japan playing back to back gigs in 8K seater venues in several Cities. Abroad they seem to have cracked the US. In September their US tour is playing in 3-5 K capacity venues.I dont think any Japanese band has EVER played a headline US tour at such large venues ! In short they have grown massively even after Otonablue hit the charts in Summer 23. There lightning world tour proved that without any promotion whatsoever they have a global following. They got 2500 in London and were amazed that so many people had even heard of them and even have a following in Korea. Asobisystem and 88 Rising have certainly played there part in promoting the band but there personality and creativity stand out irrespective of which Country you are from. They are also absolutely fantastic live. I think they are in the vanguard of a movement in overseas popularity of Japanese bands . Here's my prediction. I think there 10th anniversary gig might be Tokyo Dome. If so Im on my way to Japan...
Thank you for the detailed comment🙇♂️ I mean, I pretty much agree with most of things you said?😂 Your example of AKB is great, the shift in GP's value has gone towards authenticity, which is probably most symbolized by the rise of Ado, temporarily Keyakizaka, and AG as well. OTONABLUE definitely skyrocketed their popularity in Japan. Japanese are culturally fast to embrace trends so it's not surprising to see them everywhere after going viral. Now that the GP has moved on, personally, I think their current direction doesn't seem like they'll get a spike like OTONABLUE did anytime soon. Even Ado went through Useewa, One Piece and Show to get to where she is right now. Don't get me wrong, they have solidified their place in Japan but I think it's premature to compare them to YOASOBI and Ado. I was really surprised to find out that OTONABLUE never went to top 10 in Oricon or Japanese Billboard, as it was more of a trend on TikTok. Right now, I have no doubt their popularity overseas is still growing rapidly, but speaking solely within Japan, their current aim should be BiSH. As I think it's still a long way before they reach the likes of Yonezu Kenshi or One OK Rock. Lastly, they'll definitely get a concert in Tokyo Dome.
@@Kushunjpop Yeah I was by Sudobashi station the night of a One Ok Rock TD show. It was carnage. I wasn't trying to compare popularity stakes just in Japan. But I think AG could easily do an arena tour. I mean they are kinda doing that now playing an 8K seater over two nights in each city. I think you do them a bit of a disservice when it comes to the ads. There uniqueness and style and choreography have made them a ''hot ticket'' not just Otonablue. The ''suits'' ad is genius. People would go and see AG just dance in an empty space so they have something unique and far beyond just one song. I really mentioned Yaosabi and Ado as an example of two other Japanese acts whose musical style is more ''westernised'' and who are breaking into the US scene whilst being huge back home . I can remember wandering around The Red Brick Building in November and hearing children in the streets singing the lyrics to Idol so Yaosabi is definitely big news. I was in Yokohama for Band Maid. I shall see how many AG get in Chicago as they take on a 5K cap room. Hopefully I will hear Mayoeba Toutoshi as that was the song that drew me to this band , not Otonablue
Thanks for commenting. I believe I've expressed that Tokyo Calling isn't being counted as a hit song. It is statistically better than other songs but not high enough for a hit song, and has little relevancy in the Japanese GP.
I kept thinking about why the title of the video gave me such an uneasy feeling. Becoming a one-hit wonder doesn't mean that the rest of an artist's discography is bad. But as a fan, the idea of AG only being known for OTONABLUE and nothing else upsets me a little. (I found myself bringing up Tokyo Calling as well, but that seemed to draw in more American fans after the Kimmel performance) I do sense their push to cater more to an international audience and a different musical approach in the new album. But is that a bad thing necessarily? Is AG incapable of pulling another hit in Japan because their music isn't considered "conventional" J-Pop anymore? Are japanese listeners not interested in Japanese songs that aren't J-Pop? I'd argue that OTONABLUE wasn't conventional J-Pop, either, it felt more retro, and they kept some of that feeling on AG Calling (like Arigato and Forever Sisters). I don't have a conclusion, I think it's a little early to say whether AG will be a one-hit wonder. At the end of the day, I'm more invested in the group as performers and artists rather than how successful their music is/will be. I don't agree with all the points in the video, but interesting take regardless.
Yea at the end of the day these are just speculations based on my experience as a J-pop fan, and simply fun to fathom about as a AG fan. OTONABLUE is retro for sure but still 80s J-pop. Still, Sekai no owari's Habit did become a hit song which was also somewhat westernized. So who knows? Rarer, but not impossible.
I say I love them! But unfortunately I only love two songs out of them, fly high and Otonaku blue. They almost have the perfect formula for me to truly fall in love with them, they got great chemistry, all members are likable, they have strong stage presence, they got talent and works hard, it's just the songs, I'm not digging a lot of them but I'm always rooting more success to them and hopefully released a song that I will love once again.
In a way that's what's great about them! There's nothing wrong with not clicking with something as subjective as music. But even so, they still made you love them. Hope you'll enjoy more of their music tho, no matter if it's rediscovering an old song or new release!
I recommend listening to their early albums, wakage ga itaru and maenarawanai since they're pretty much more rich musically compared to their new albums, majority of old fans pick the albums as their fav and the songs in it have such potentials to be singles too :)
I think they’ll continue to be popular internationally. I don’t think there’s lots of time for them to create another hit. However, I don’t think they need another hit to have an amazing musical career. Their catalogue is already really great. They have a really unique and creative musical identity that will resonate with so many more fans in the future.
Love this video! Hope someday you'll make an analysis about the group Perfume, how they manage to last for 25 years and still have a strong hold to their fanbase, both in Japan and overseas. Also a topic about BABYMETAL will generate views 👍
As with your “History of…” video, this is very insightful. However, AG! reached popularity not because they were entrenched in normal J-Pop, but because they were attempting to branch out and experiment musically. That is what’s hooked me and many of my friends on their music. I was just telling a friend the other day that if I’d heard their first two albums - which I now LOVE - first, then I would have written them off as just another pop act. Unlike many other bands, each album has shown a true progression and attempted something new and exciting, with some of their best music being the non-album tracks! If they regress to normal J-Pop, they will simply grow stale and boring. I’ll point to their recent co-lab with Maximum the Hormone: their parts felt and sounded like a bad, overproduced anime theme. Felt a bit like a regression. I saw them a week back at the Seattle Wa show and good LORD they’re great live (the videos do NOT do those shows justice!), and the fans were utterly respectful and brilliant to be with! I felt like I was hanging with 100s of my closest friends! I can’t think of a band in recent memory that has generated that level of respect. Suzuka going “rogue” and diving into the audience is proof of this: no one is abusive not grabbing inappropriately etc. most other acts couldn’t get away with that these days…it would be considered unsafe! AG! have their toxic fans, to be sure, but I think they’re few and far between. At the Seattle show I wondered why they were playing such a small venue, and wondered aloud to some folks I met there whether that this might be the last time we could see them in something other than a stadium. Nah, I don’t think - even to the general public - that they’ll ever be consider a one hit wonder.
ive been a big fan of AG since their first debu and ever since they signed to 88rigning they have changed dramatically [even their dances have been lacking] I do think they are on the road to a one hit wonder and it saddens me. the current AG is really trying to appeal to a western audience even their older music from before their first debu didn't sound like this I really hope they go back to their older jazz sound. I think with how they currently are they well lose a lot of their japanese audience over time and I don't think their music has a strong staying power in the west like other groups like Perfume
One of the amazing and most captivating aspects of AG is, in my opinion, the different "colours" the combinations of their voices gives. Just pair them and get a full palette: MIZYU and Kanon, Rin and Kanon, MIZYU and Rin or any other combination. I mostly agree with your list but, personally, i would replace "toumei boy" with "mayoeba toutoshi" for it´s desperate but still positive message about the confusion of growing up. For me it is very much the center of what AG is/was about. I fear that the "westernification" of their music will make them drown in a big sea of similar music since their main thing is the Live Show and streaming services is the main form of music listening today. If you only hear them you miss out on the main thing about them: the dance and the interactions with the audience and within the group itself.
Mayoeba toutoshi almost made the list for the exact reason you wrote👍 Their current era feels like a thank you phase to their fans that made their 2023 boom possible. But yea making music particularly to attract western audiences' hasn't rly worked well for many j-pop artists so we'll see how it goes.
@@Kushunjpop I hope they can find their core again and continue to be that perfect "slightly annoying" in the society without really breaking any unwritten rules. As an old westerner that actually was a punk rocker in the early 80s i see a punk attitude in much of what they do. I love it when they chock and confuse reporters or TV people with their weirdness and the people doesn´t know how to react so they starts to laugh (because surely what they are seeing must be a joke even if they don´t get it?). Laugh as a self defence in a way. That is how you "protrude" and show your personality without people really understand how much you are breaking out of the conformity!
@@RiderOftheNorth1968 I love that. Personally, when it comes to rock or hip-hop, attitude is as important as the music, which is something AG doesn't lack so hope we get to see that side again.
I'm surprised that it is Otona Blue that is the hit song. It was Pineapple Kryptonite that introduced me to them and I was immediately hooked. Got to see them live. I hope they don't just stay as a one hit wonder. They are clearly talented performers.
I think for international audiences you're either open to J-pop or you're not, but even Japanese casuals have the chance to become AG fans, that's why OTONABLUE was such an important achievement for their popularity in Japan. It might be slightly harder for them in the near future with their music westernized.
This is strange to me, because I've recently become a fan, but I actively dislike Otanablue. There are so much better songs by them, Tokyo Calling, Fly High, Change, Omakase, all bangers.
Otanablue is one of the rare songs where I've watched its MV more than I listened to it. Kinda shows how it is as a standalone song for me. But yea I def enjoy the others more.
Hey guys! I'm aware this topic might be slightly controversial to some of you and I'd like to know your opinions as well, but plz keep things constructive and civil in the comments😂
One thing I want to add, a lot of artists when they reach mainstream, their music tends to become safe and uninspired, but I really appreciate AG! for doubling down on their ideologies.
As an overseas AG! fan, I do not care so much if they will have many hit songs like Otona blue. They are doing great with their current songs right now. And it's not just their music that hooked me. It's their totality...their uniqueness, huge personality, authenticity, positive energy, epic live performances and charismatic way in connecting with the audience especially my favorite girl Suzuka. Another point, her deep and rich voice adds to the uniqueness of their vocal quality. Japanese music is so saturated with high pitch female voices that's why Suzuka's voice is a welcome diversity.
I'm rooting for you ATARASHII GAKKO!🔥🔥🔥🔥
Yep, I cannot agree more😂
One-hit wonder?! Where?! All their songs are bangers. :) They’re equivalent to Perfume. Gonna age like wine.
Like I mentioned in the video, they have a lot of great songs, but for most Japanese non-fans, there's only OTONABLUE. Idk about domestically but they are already bigger internationally so yes I agree they'll stay on top until they stop.
as a westerner when i first saw the first concert videos of atarashii gakko i didnt know of otona blue . all i saw was 4 talented girls perfoming and i was amazed of their dedication and talent . who cares if they are a one hit wonders. they are unique and different from the rest . thats more important
Agreed!
When Myzyu and Kanon combine their vocals it's as possible to hear what Silk would sound like.
I know😭
The combination of their vocals is so soothing!!!! 😊
I’m a new fan who started to listen to their music after seeing their performance at Coachella. I had heard of AG! via tiktok with their more popular songs otonablue and Tokyo calling, but what really pulled me in was their high energy performances their unique personas. I’ve been going back and listening to their early stuff and honestly I like all of it lol. I think it’s fair to say that now that they’ve gone more international they’re appealing to that wider market but I feel like they are in a stage where they can only go up. They have the potential, the sound and uniqueness to be a very successful group.
P.S. loved your vid! My favorite song from theirs right now is also SEISHUN WO KIRISAKU HADO. I hope they release more songs with that strong rock sound.
Thank you! Agreed. The impact of OTONABLUE may have died down a bit in Japan but internationally they're still going strong. It rly is a good song.
I’ve only read the title but gosh, I hope not. These girls are ridiculously talented and hardworking and have been at it for almost a decade. Suzuka has a truly one of a kind voice, it’s not often I hear women with such deep and rich voices, much less in gen z. Ughhh I love them so much I want them to have all the success in the world 😭
Wonderful analysis you’ve done! I’m really interested in future videos as I don’t listen to a ton of jpop but I’ve love to get into it more
One thing I don't think you need to worry about is their future, even if you ignore their Japanese fanbase, just international alone should be able to deem them as successful. This video is more about the view of Japanese general public.
Also thank you for the kind words🙏
@@Kushunjpop ah, that makes sense. You’re right, they’ve already achieved more than many could ever hope to dream for. I’m totally looking forward to their future, bc they 100% are a group that’s going to have to adapt and change while still staying true to their roots which will be interesting to see
海外のファンの方はAGの事を本当によく分かっていますね。
コメントを読んでいてとても興味深かったです。
それも彼女たちが海外で一生懸命頑張ってたしるしではないでしょうか🫡
IMO Otonablue is more of a gateway song to get introduced to AG and explore their other great stuff. PSY's 'Gangnam Style" was a perfect example for a "gateway song". He didn't have another hit like GS but still getting loads of new fans through that one song. Folks who had never heard of k-pop got introduced to it through this song and went on to try other artists.
Vintage J-pop Songs like "Plastic love" and "Stay With Me" went viral decades later and brought Mariya Takeyuchi and Miki Matsubara back in to spotlight along with the renewed interest in 80's j-pop. I think in this attention seeking market all an artist need is one viral hit to get people's attention and AG has got a solid discography coupled with high energy live performances to keep folks hooked in just like PSY.
Can AG give another hit bigger than Otonablue? May be..with the right collaboration, a good music-video along with Social Media promotion they could come up with a new hit song if not then Otonablue will continue to serve as AG's gateway song.
Amazingly said! I contemplated using PSY as an example but decided to stick with J-pop. They definitely has the platform to have another OTONABLUE esque hit, I think it's more down to if they want to go that route, which is understandable but ever so slightly uncharacteristic.
I'm so happy your channel exists ! I've been looking for good discussion and explanations on the modern Jpop topic for ages ! I find the genre fascinating and worthy of a dedicated channel ! Thank you so much for your work, I whole heartedly encourage you to keep shedding light on artists ! I confess I've been craving any english speaking videos about Hoshino Gen. Keep up the good work !
i went into this video thinking you'd be dragging them but I actually really liked it :))))
Thanks! I knew it's a risky topic but AG! fans who bothered to sit thru it will know I'm not hating them at all😂
I don't think so, after all their popularity has only grown from the time they were introduced to the world outside of Japan, they are the only "idol" group that I give any attention to, also the only "jazz" type of music that I will listen to, also the first song that I ever heard from them was koinosyadanki not Otana blue, and I was immediately smitten, so as far as I'm concerned, they're doing something I like, I wish them all the success in the world.
Thank you for sharing. Yea I agree with that, their popularity on the international stage is growing rapidly. This video is just an observation about how casuals might see them in Japan. I'm glad you're enjoying their music!
Big AG fan! Their music is so diverse, I can't see their material ever getting old. I wish all 4 of the girls long successful careers, no matter what direction they go. 1 Hit Wonder, my a$$, all their songs are great.
Like I said, it's simply by the views of the general public who doesn't know them as fans do😂 At the same time other's opinions shouldn't matter as long as you enjoy their music👍
I agree with you 100%. 😉👍
Your last sentenced says it all lol!
Interesting video, thank you. On the one hand, of course, I don't much care whether they transcend the one hit wonder tag in Japan, so long as they continue to produce good music and performances. On the other, I want to see them continue to evolve and develop great music. I agree that some of their strongest songs as songs are in their earlier period, but I don't believe that their shift towards a more international market means that their material will necessarily suffer in terms of quality. I think they are still finding their feet and the extent to which they can shape their own material directly. Give them time. I don't think they'll ever leave their Japanese roots entirely. Oh, and I thought their recent collaboration with Sheena Ringo (though more a Suzuka vehicle than an AG! show case) was terrific. I'll be talking about that on my own channel shortly. Thanks again!
Bro Otonablue is not the only hit AG has there are other like -
Omakase
Fly High
Pineapple Kryptonite (remix)
Change
Essa Hoisa
And don't even understand Japanese or even try to understand the lyrics still I enjoy their songs so I don't think they are going anywhere.
Thank for commenting. By hit I mean songs that are as popular as OTONABLUE in Japan, which they are not quite there yet. And yes only direction they're going is up.
They aren’t a one hit wonder- they have several hits. The question is how long will they stay together.
Cool video, thanks. I'm also not the biggest fan of their new album or the direction they've taken since "Tokyo calling" but I sure hope AG! will stay around for a long time since I assume (hope...) that they'll change their style a couple of times again in the future. 🙂
I'd be surprised if they don't mix things up in an album or two
I'll add my voice to the chorus of, "well, in terms of my enjoyment, I do not care one whit about chart success" and maybe only then to the extent that it allows the creative artists I like to continue their careers and find a career path that sustains them in the long-term and adds to the culture. Devo was a one-hit wonder in the US, and Mark Mothersbaugh has had a huge career in Hollywood writing music that then appeared in many cultural touchstones.
AG! will be fine. Part of their appeal is that they are open to a wide range of influences. My guess is that long-term, Suzuka will become a tarento, and Mizyu a producer. But I am hoping for many more years of their trying stuff as they have been.
(It's always good to have random clips of Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu aka Full-Time Wife Escapist on Netflix in one's video essay. The point was well made, but not something I expected in a video about AG!.)
AG! certainly has a big enough fanbase that they can afford to not have another hit, plus I would argue their biggest appeal isn't even their music. I don't know about individually, but even if the general public has moved on from OTONABLUE, their cultural impact on the Japanese idol industry or even music industry, in terms of their success overseas without the help of anime should be everlasting.
Totally agree with your take on the members' future. Very interested to see how they change their approach when they reach 30s.
Thank you! I definitely got carried away editing that part of the video.
It's interesting that you mention DEVO, as I often think there are real parallels between them and AG! (beyond the use of uniforms). DEVO formed in a time when there was a blithe belief that things were bound to get better, because that was the great promise of capitalism. DEVO didn't see it that way (the reasons for their radicalisation are a matter of record) and spent years trying to warn anyone who'd listen that it was all going to end badly. That was usually unhelpfully interpreted by critics as a pose of edgy cynicism, right up to the point when it became apparent that, in the words of The Attery Squash, "DEVO was right about everything." Now we have AG!, whose recurrent message is "Things are garbage right now, but they don't have to stay that way," and espouse (say it quietly) collective action, in essence taking the baton for what happens next. So, ultimately, I think the vibe DEVO and AG! share is that they're both political in outlook, even if that's not obvious at first glance. Oh, and both groups do really good videos. Sorry, didn't intend this to turn into a TED Talk, but here we are.
@@jonathanhoward8220
I love the DEVO parallelism! Chirachirachirami has a very strong DEVO slant to it.
@@scttschlz
I love the idea of Mizyu as a producer. Apart from being my favorite AG, I guess I relate to her most because even if she's just in the background, you know she's a strong creative force in the group.
@@jinggaddi I love that song. It does have that DEVOlutionary quirkiness to it, and it also gives Mizyu the lead and a grand opportunity to go full chaos goblin, bless her.
I appreciate your opinion. AG has many memorable songs however the past 2 songs found Luke warm especially Changes.
Thanks. I find them "interesting" at best😅
Interesting topic. Often groups end up as a one hit wonder internationally, while being very successful in their home country (many examples of popular UK groups being one hit wonders in the US). Babymetal might be a good example of that too, Gimmie Chocolate being their one viral western hit, but they seem to be maintaining a solid popularity base back home. Given AG's recent western focus it would be interesting if they flipped that and found more mainstream success outside of Japan than within. Could be recency bias, but it already even seems like Tokyo Calling got more attention in the anglosphere than Otonablue did.
Nice tease at the end. "How can he possibly know one youtube channel we all watch? Oh yea, that one." 😆
Hey welcome back! Only other example I can think of right top of my head is BLACKPINK being more popular in US than Korea. I think that really shows how different mainstream music is between Japan and Western, also it definitely helps that it was the first single post-OTONABLUE and they went on Jimmy Kimmel. Glad you liked the tease, worth putting in "Dream lantern" for a copyright claim lol.
Babymetal seems a poor example. They have more international listeners now than ever, a US Billboard #1 song this year, a sold out US (and Asian and European) tour, more festival appearances in Europe than ever before this year, etc.
babymetal and Atarashii Gakko! are actually alike.. they have more fans outside japan. media-wise they aren't that popular in japan.
I went to a recent concert from them and i went with ppl who have not listened to their music, they thought it was confusing with how much the genre shifts and they wished there was a built in transition for the lyrics. They also felt like Kanon got the least amount of attention from the fans. I find it interesting how Superhuman was supposed to be their international focused song according to their interview with the Zack Show. Im pretty sure its one of the lower performing song.
yes, but only in a sense that you count EVERY song as an individual...seriously have you not been listening to their music? every song a banger, toured multiple countries. saying they're one hit is seriously an insult
Thank you for commenting. I've mentioned that it's not about what fans like, but what non-fans know, and right now the GP only knows about OTONABLUE, ergo one-hit. And consider their special situation with being more popular overseas, I'd reckon the notion one-hit wonder means even less.
Love your Top 5 ❤, but I would probably include Toumei Girl as well 😊
It was a hard choice not to👍
@@Kushunjpop
I also love Seishun wo kirosakuhado for it's the perfect balance of chaotic energy and subtle grace that AG are best known for.
My first foray into AG was via Tokyo Calling, which really got my attention. Then Toryanse got me even more interested, for I loved how they fused traditional Japanese concepts with modern aesthetics. But I would say it was really Otonablue First Take version which definitely sealed the AG deal for me. That performance was the perfect platform for AG to be introduced internationally. From there, I went deep into the AG rabbit hole and was so pleased to discover their diverse discography. I really love despite their being genre chameleons, all their songs still have that unique AG sound which cuts across all of their released albums and EPs.
From your discussion on whether AG are "one hit wonders," I somehow get the impression that for you it doesn't really matter as being a "one hit wonder" is a public perception which shouldn't really affect one's appreciation of a particular artist.
I actually share the same sentiment. I mean I'm sure there are listeners who think The Beatles or The Clash are one hit wonders, but what the heck, right? The Beatles and The Clash produced classic albums like Abbey Road and London Calling, despite being known for "Love Me Do" and "Should I Stay or Should I Go?".
What I like about AG is how they handled this "one hit wonder-ness" and used it as a platform for the listening public to discover more about them as artists in the hopes of garnering genuine fans.
Anyway, I've already said a mouthful. Again, thank you for the very introspective musical analysis of AG. Will look forward to more. Peace out!
@@jinggaddi And I love reading every part of it! Hope you'll enjoy my future videos as well👍
Seishun Wo Kirisaku Hado feels so much like an anime song. I do hope they dont lose their Japanese focus on culture in more of their albums, but tbh I'm a fan, I'll keep supporting them because their energy is great regardless. I think their songs are just a vehicle for their performances which are really awesome.
I agree. I wouldnt like them any less even if you take away the music.
I have never cared if a band had a hit or not, and usually the song that they get a hit with I don't particularly like anyways (Looking at you The Cure's "Friday I'm In Love"). Though Otona Blue is an ok song, I don't think AG even expected it to get that big, being that they didn't even release an official MV for it until after the First Take performance. I do agree that the new album is, um, odd. Though I do disagree about one thing, it is very J-pop, just not modern j-pop. Some tracks (hero show and superhuman) almost remind me of Puffy Ami Yumi, and there is some enka thrown in on some tracks which seem out of place for the rest of the song. The only thing that is not mainstream j-pop is Suzuka's voice not being high pitched and nasally like most idol bands seem to do.
Though I do care for AG's success mostly because in the modern music industry, streaming is making it difficult for smaller or non-mainstream bands to thrive.
In an interview they did say they were hoping OTONABLUE would be their breakout song, hence they kept featuring it. But yea definitely not to that degree.
Personally I think what makes the album sound less J-pop to me is the production. Excluding Vocal P songs and K-pop/Pop influenced songs, J-pop productions are often rather raw with their instruments and recordings. But AG Calling's is so well-produced to a point I feel like it's almost over-produced😅
Also yea SUZUKA's voice doesn't fit the idols mold, but we're definitely seeing more mainstream female singers with deeper voices, which I prefer.
@@Kushunjpop That's a salient point about overproduction. I was trying to pin down exactly why I like most individual songs, but as a whole it did feel like an American pop album.
Also much agreement on Kanon's voice. My Favorite AG song is a commercial they did where Kanon is the only one singing. th-cam.com/video/Nr2SGMi7bEo/w-d-xo.html Fortunately I don't know Japanese well enough to understand the lyrics enough to know she is singing about stain free clothes.
@@roberthradek7100
Kanon’s lyrics “Mizu Mo Hajiku Yo Ii Onna”
A fine water-repellent woman
A fine woman who isn’t deterred by rain
But who is nonetheless juicy
A fine water-repellent woman
A fine woman who isn’t deterred by rain
But who is nonetheless juicy
Zero Pressure (Suits!)
Zero Pressure (Suits!)
Suits are Aoyama
Repels water drops
Suits are Aoyama
Ahhhhh…
(Voiceover: Atarashii Businesswear No Leaders. A fine water-repellent woman. Zero Pressure suits)
Greetings from Italy. I agree with everything explained in your video, I also noticed the changes, but what I miss at most is the jazzy style of the first albums (and I am not into jazz at all!). I have the feeling that they are pointing towards 'easy-listening-world-pop' songs to catch more international appeal, while maintaining their identity. Anyway, they are so young that nothing is precluded, and I strongly believe that AG is one of the groups that will make J-pop explode in Europe. Nothing is written yet, we have an example in Babymetal career: two pop-metal albums, one evolved, then a turn into a really dark synth-metal with the fourth one....people got crazy, the fun has gone forever...then, their are back with the goofiest, funniest and 'ignorant' style ever. So, AG are shining now and we european still don't know the J-pop rumbling incoming!
Thank you for the comment. I don't really listen to Jazz as well but I love that part of their catalogue as well. Yes! Can't wait to see what more different style they'll bring to their music.
I agree wholeheartedly about Babymetal, and they were headed my way on tour as I was losing interest last year. I was saddened at my lack of excitement. Then they dropped Metali, and were shown as a true trinity again, having fun! And they have continued trending upward since. I went to the show and had a blast! I also agree about AG, and your views on the earlier, diverse and jazzy music. The newer western hip-hop is the kind of music I look to my eastern artists to help me escape. Now, they are heading my way also, and I am torn about going to see them.
I appreciate your insights, Kushun. It's funny, not one of your top 5 makes it to my top 5 list. Yes, I am part of the international audience and yes, I was introduced to Atarasii Gakko! through Otonablue. But it wasn't the music or even the lyrics that captivated me. It was their stage presence, lack of inhibition, and clear sense of unbridled fun (all in the all-white room of First Take). Since then, I have fallen in love with their manifesto and their personalities more than the music. I've never been much of a music listener, rarely buying any and almost never going to concerts. So it is nice to hear a music-lover's perspective on their discography. I have no problem disagreeing with you even as I value your insights. As you say, music is subjective.
But Atarashii Gakko's awesomeness is not. They are objectively awesome, and I will fight you if you disagree. 🤣
I agree with you 100%. Well said. Solid AG! fan here, let's go!!! 💪😁
Thank you for the comment. Nope! I will fight beside you if anyone thinks they're not awesome. I love we have different top 5s, just proves how many great songs they have👍
It's impossible for Atarashii gakko tp be a one hit onder. They have a myriad of great songs
Ok. Your opening up a massive topic here. Where to start. Lets go back a generation shall we. The Japanese music industry is huge. Historically Japanese pop music apart from other countries relatively close geographically and musically, has never exported well. With so much to earn at home and a product that did not span the oceans there really was no need for Japans pop stars to look far from home. Over the last twenty odd years only Babymetal has relatively successfully catered to an international market . That did not affect their popularity at home in fact success overseas is a big thing back home and if anything that increased there profile back home and led to a Kohaku appearance as well as two nights at the Dome. I think the global rise of K Pop is also a factor as two K Pop bands now sit on top of the pile as the two biggest bands on the planet . I think it shows what can be done. Also I think home tastes may have become more refined. The days when cute girls lip synched to sugarypoppy stuff does not really cut it anymore. I can remember Tokyo being a sea of AKB48 just ten years ago. How has that changed !! Audiences want to hear live music and vocals. Japanese pop is evolving and becoming more westernised. It's not just AG but Ado and Yoasabi are making waves away from home but still selling out big venues back home. In short I think you are utterly incorrect. Ok, AG are changing musically but all bands do that over a period of time yet there output still remains diverse. There rise at home remains on a very fast track to being ''A'' listers. In just the few months since Otonablue went viral there faces are all over billboards across Japans biggest Cities with a slew of quirky ads. They played an 8K seater. Appeared on Kohaku and then sold out The Budokan. They are currently touring Japan playing back to back gigs in 8K seater venues in several Cities. Abroad they seem to have cracked the US. In September their US tour is playing in 3-5 K capacity venues.I dont think any Japanese band has EVER played a headline US tour at such large venues ! In short they have grown massively even after Otonablue hit the charts in Summer 23. There lightning world tour proved that without any promotion whatsoever they have a global following. They got 2500 in London and were amazed that so many people had even heard of them and even have a following in Korea. Asobisystem and 88 Rising have certainly played there part in promoting the band but there personality and creativity stand out irrespective of which Country you are from. They are also absolutely fantastic live. I think they are in the vanguard of a movement in overseas popularity of Japanese bands . Here's my prediction. I think there 10th anniversary gig might be Tokyo Dome. If so Im on my way to Japan...
Thank you for the detailed comment🙇♂️
I mean, I pretty much agree with most of things you said?😂
Your example of AKB is great, the shift in GP's value has gone towards authenticity, which is probably most symbolized by the rise of Ado, temporarily Keyakizaka, and AG as well.
OTONABLUE definitely skyrocketed their popularity in Japan. Japanese are culturally fast to embrace trends so it's not surprising to see them everywhere after going viral. Now that the GP has moved on, personally, I think their current direction doesn't seem like they'll get a spike like OTONABLUE did anytime soon. Even Ado went through Useewa, One Piece and Show to get to where she is right now.
Don't get me wrong, they have solidified their place in Japan but I think it's premature to compare them to YOASOBI and Ado. I was really surprised to find out that OTONABLUE never went to top 10 in Oricon or Japanese Billboard, as it was more of a trend on TikTok.
Right now, I have no doubt their popularity overseas is still growing rapidly, but speaking solely within Japan, their current aim should be BiSH. As I think it's still a long way before they reach the likes of Yonezu Kenshi or One OK Rock.
Lastly, they'll definitely get a concert in Tokyo Dome.
@@Kushunjpop Yeah I was by Sudobashi station the night of a One Ok Rock TD show. It was carnage. I wasn't trying to compare popularity stakes just in Japan. But I think AG could easily do an arena tour. I mean they are kinda doing that now playing an 8K seater over two nights in each city. I think you do them a bit of a disservice when it comes to the ads. There uniqueness and style and choreography have made them a ''hot ticket'' not just Otonablue. The ''suits'' ad is genius. People would go and see AG just dance in an empty space so they have something unique and far beyond just one song. I really mentioned Yaosabi and Ado as an example of two other Japanese acts whose musical style is more ''westernised'' and who are breaking into the US scene whilst being huge back home . I can remember wandering around The Red Brick Building in November and hearing children in the streets singing the lyrics to Idol so Yaosabi is definitely big news. I was in Yokohama for Band Maid. I shall see how many AG get in Chicago as they take on a 5K cap room. Hopefully I will hear Mayoeba Toutoshi as that was the song that drew me to this band , not Otonablue
青春を切り裂く波動 is one of my favorites too 😊
Also Toryanse & pineapple kryptonite 🍍
青春を切り裂く波動 has the perfect song and dance combined! Those two song are extremely mesmerizing as well👍
If they have more than ONE hit song, by definition they are not a ONE HIT wonder
Thanks for commenting. I believe I've expressed that Tokyo Calling isn't being counted as a hit song. It is statistically better than other songs but not high enough for a hit song, and has little relevancy in the Japanese GP.
Where is the Rin hashtag, you monster!? She has my favorite hair. Hopefully the lyrics to Change elevate them in public eye.
In the description😂 idk why it's only showing mizyu. Yea its definitely one of those songs people can relate to
Hey man, can you do videos about Ado? That would be great! Love your videos.
Thank you! Absolutely, I'll make it for special occasions like certain number of subs etc. And when I'm satisfied with my writing and editing skills.
I kept thinking about why the title of the video gave me such an uneasy feeling. Becoming a one-hit wonder doesn't mean that the rest of an artist's discography is bad. But as a fan, the idea of AG only being known for OTONABLUE and nothing else upsets me a little. (I found myself bringing up Tokyo Calling as well, but that seemed to draw in more American fans after the Kimmel performance)
I do sense their push to cater more to an international audience and a different musical approach in the new album. But is that a bad thing necessarily? Is AG incapable of pulling another hit in Japan because their music isn't considered "conventional" J-Pop anymore? Are japanese listeners not interested in Japanese songs that aren't J-Pop? I'd argue that OTONABLUE wasn't conventional J-Pop, either, it felt more retro, and they kept some of that feeling on AG Calling (like Arigato and Forever Sisters).
I don't have a conclusion, I think it's a little early to say whether AG will be a one-hit wonder. At the end of the day, I'm more invested in the group as performers and artists rather than how successful their music is/will be. I don't agree with all the points in the video, but interesting take regardless.
Yea at the end of the day these are just speculations based on my experience as a J-pop fan, and simply fun to fathom about as a AG fan.
OTONABLUE is retro for sure but still 80s J-pop. Still, Sekai no owari's Habit did become a hit song which was also somewhat westernized. So who knows? Rarer, but not impossible.
I say I love them! But unfortunately I only love two songs out of them, fly high and Otonaku blue. They almost have the perfect formula for me to truly fall in love with them, they got great chemistry, all members are likable, they have strong stage presence, they got talent and works hard, it's just the songs, I'm not digging a lot of them but I'm always rooting more success to them and hopefully released a song that I will love once again.
In a way that's what's great about them! There's nothing wrong with not clicking with something as subjective as music. But even so, they still made you love them. Hope you'll enjoy more of their music tho, no matter if it's rediscovering an old song or new release!
I recommend listening to their early albums, wakage ga itaru and maenarawanai since they're pretty much more rich musically compared to their new albums, majority of old fans pick the albums as their fav and the songs in it have such potentials to be singles too :)
😢 I want them to succeed, I love these girls.
I think they’ll continue to be popular internationally. I don’t think there’s lots of time for them to create another hit. However, I don’t think they need another hit to have an amazing musical career. Their catalogue is already really great. They have a really unique and creative musical identity that will resonate with so many more fans in the future.
Perfectly said!
Love this video! Hope someday you'll make an analysis about the group Perfume, how they manage to last for 25 years and still have a strong hold to their fanbase, both in Japan and overseas. Also a topic about BABYMETAL will generate views 👍
Thank you! Yes it's very impressive they're able to stay on top of their game that long, especially in Japan.
As with your “History of…” video, this is very insightful.
However, AG! reached popularity not because they were entrenched in normal J-Pop, but because they were attempting to branch out and experiment musically. That is what’s hooked me and many of my friends on their music. I was just telling a friend the other day that if I’d heard their first two albums - which I now LOVE - first, then I would have written them off as just another pop act.
Unlike many other bands, each album has shown a true progression and attempted something new and exciting, with some of their best music being the non-album tracks! If they regress to normal J-Pop, they will simply grow stale and boring. I’ll point to their recent co-lab with Maximum the Hormone: their parts felt and sounded like a bad, overproduced anime theme. Felt a bit like a regression.
I saw them a week back at the Seattle Wa show and good LORD they’re great live (the videos do NOT do those shows justice!), and the fans were utterly respectful and brilliant to be with! I felt like I was hanging with 100s of my closest friends! I can’t think of a band in recent memory that has generated that level of respect. Suzuka going “rogue” and diving into the audience is proof of this: no one is abusive not grabbing inappropriately etc. most other acts couldn’t get away with that these days…it would be considered unsafe!
AG! have their toxic fans, to be sure, but I think they’re few and far between.
At the Seattle show I wondered why they were playing such a small venue, and wondered aloud to some folks I met there whether that this might be the last time we could see them in something other than a stadium.
Nah, I don’t think - even to the general public - that they’ll ever be consider a one hit wonder.
ive been a big fan of AG since their first debu and ever since they signed to 88rigning they have changed dramatically [even their dances have been lacking] I do think they are on the road to a one hit wonder and it saddens me. the current AG is really trying to appeal to a western audience even their older music from before their first debu didn't sound like this I really hope they go back to their older jazz sound. I think with how they currently are they well lose a lot of their japanese audience over time and I don't think their music has a strong staying power in the west like other groups like Perfume
One of the amazing and most captivating aspects of AG is, in my opinion, the different "colours" the combinations of their voices gives. Just pair them and get a full palette: MIZYU and Kanon, Rin and Kanon, MIZYU and Rin or any other combination.
I mostly agree with your list but, personally, i would replace "toumei boy" with "mayoeba toutoshi" for it´s desperate but still positive message about the confusion of growing up. For me it is very much the center of what AG is/was about.
I fear that the "westernification" of their music will make them drown in a big sea of similar music since their main thing is the Live Show and streaming services is the main form of music listening today. If you only hear them you miss out on the main thing about them: the dance and the interactions with the audience and within the group itself.
Mayoeba toutoshi almost made the list for the exact reason you wrote👍
Their current era feels like a thank you phase to their fans that made their 2023 boom possible. But yea making music particularly to attract western audiences' hasn't rly worked well for many j-pop artists so we'll see how it goes.
@@Kushunjpop I hope they can find their core again and continue to be that perfect "slightly annoying" in the society without really breaking any unwritten rules. As an old westerner that actually was a punk rocker in the early 80s i see a punk attitude in much of what they do. I love it when they chock and confuse reporters or TV people with their weirdness and the people doesn´t know how to react so they starts to laugh (because surely what they are seeing must be a joke even if they don´t get it?). Laugh as a self defence in a way. That is how you "protrude" and show your personality without people really understand how much you are breaking out of the conformity!
@@RiderOftheNorth1968 I love that. Personally, when it comes to rock or hip-hop, attitude is as important as the music, which is something AG doesn't lack so hope we get to see that side again.
一発屋かどうかなんてファンかしたらどうでもいいって海外のコメ欄、まさにその通り。そんなこと気にしてんの日本人だけだろ。ファーストテイクのコメ欄見ててもそんなこと言ってんのネガティブ文化の日本人だけだった。
別に万人受けしなくたってAGが好きなんだからどうでもいい。
更に、オトナブルーがヒットしてからまだ1年ちょいくらいしか経ってないし20代前半ってことを考えると一発屋って判断するにはまだ早いでしょ。
主さんは昔のスタイル捨てたって言ってたけど、俺からしたら捨ててないと思うぞ。AGは変わり続けてるし新しいことに挑戦してる。それが今回のアルバムに纏まっただけ。また復活はすると思うし、オトナブルーや波動みたいな日本人に衝撃が走るような曲、生まれると思うぞ。彼女達のスター性を見ればわかるでしょ
それとちょっと引っかかったのが、ヒット曲の例で挙げてた、万人受けする＋国内で1番評価されやすいバンドやシンガーソングライターと比べるのはナンセンスでしょ。AGは踊って歌うグループだからね。KPOPは国違うからもっと意味わからんし。
日本人のアイドルへの偏見は主さんならわかってくれるはず。友達に紹介した時も曲は好きやけど、どうしてもアイドル感あって無理って言われたよ。それであそこまで国内外共に人気のあるアイドル他にいない気がするんやけど。
オトナブルーであそこまで行けたのがそもそも凄すぎるんよね。訳分からん
長いコメントしてくれてありがとうございます😂 正直言いたいことは基本的に分かります、しかも共感も結構できると思う。唯一異論があるのは海外のファンもチャートや世の中の人気さがすごい気になる人も大勢いるのです。しかもそのため他のアーティストとファンに酷い悪口するのもよくある事だから、そういう人に一番大事なのは人気とかではないよと伝うのもこのビデオの狙いなんだ。
I'm surprised that it is Otona Blue that is the hit song. It was Pineapple Kryptonite that introduced me to them and I was immediately hooked. Got to see them live. I hope they don't just stay as a one hit wonder. They are clearly talented performers.
I think for international audiences you're either open to J-pop or you're not, but even Japanese casuals have the chance to become AG fans, that's why OTONABLUE was such an important achievement for their popularity in Japan. It might be slightly harder for them in the near future with their music westernized.
@@Kushunjpop Yeah. I hope they stay more to their Japanese roots. I think that's what western audiences in general really want to.
This is strange to me, because I've recently become a fan, but I actively dislike Otanablue. There are so much better songs by them, Tokyo Calling, Fly High, Change, Omakase, all bangers.
Otanablue is one of the rare songs where I've watched its MV more than I listened to it. Kinda shows how it is as a standalone song for me. But yea I def enjoy the others more.