» Backflips + metallics = good pop music :: The Pop Diner

Sep112008

Backflips + metallics = good pop music

Filed under General, Music, Pop Culture by teresa santoski at 1:27 pm

I must confess, I have a deep appreciation for simple pop music that’s just plain fun - strong beats, good hooks, a chorus that’s easy to sing along with. Throw in a few backflips and you’ve got a winner.

Hence, the clip I’ve had on repeat on all week - Ya-Ya-Yah\’s \”Baby Babe.\” The costumes, the well-placed yet nearly meaningless English phrases, the vigorous choreography - how can something like this not bring a smile to your face? Until someone proves to me otherwise, I will staunchly maintain my position that no one in the world does delightful, ready-for-consumption pop music like Johnny Kitagawa and his army of Japanese boy bands. He is, simply put, a pop genius.

Here’s another one I’m currently enjoying - News\’ News Nippon. An oldie but goodie that includes Uchi and Kusano, two members who have since been kicked out of the group as punishment for underage drinking. In the U.S., that tends to help a celebrity’s career. Not so in Japan, where pop stars are supposed to give the impression of sweetness and innocence.

My question is, is there punishment for wearing white shorts and tank tops with black combat boots? Because if so, the whole band is in trouble. Maybe it’s an astronaut thing.

Tags: Japan, Jpop, pop music