In a remarkable showcase of the evolving Japanese music scene, the TimeTree Future General Research Institute has released a special report detailing how music is integrated into daily life across Japan. This analysis is based on a staggering 12 billion schedules registered by domestic TimeTree users throughout 2024, highlighting not only the popularity of certain artists and festivals but also the broader cultural impact of music in contemporary society.
The report, which was conducted in collaboration with the MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN, reveals that Mrs. GREEN APPLE has emerged as the most registered artist, with nearly twice the number of entries as the second-ranked artist, Aimyon. This data offers a fascinating glimpse into the preferences of Japanese music fans, showcasing how certain artists resonate more deeply within the community.
During the analysis period from January 1 to December 31, 2024, TimeTree users registered over 12 billion schedules, which were statistically processed to maintain anonymity. Among the top 10,000 scheduled events, those related to music were particularly prominent, with Mrs. GREEN APPLE leading the way. The artist's scheduled events peaked around significant dates, such as major live performances and ticket sales, indicating the importance of live music in the lives of fans.
In addition to individual artists, the report also highlighted the popularity of music festivals. The ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL topped the list of most registered music festivals, followed closely by SUMMER SONIC and COUNTDOWN JAPAN. These festivals serve as cultural touchstones, drawing large crowds and fostering a sense of community among attendees.
Interestingly, the analysis also revealed a significant interest in musical instrument performances, particularly for instruments like the piano, drums, and guitar. The data showed that piano lessons, often a staple of childhood education in Japan, were among the most frequently scheduled events, with a staggering 1,406 occurrences per million registered reservations. This highlights the deep-rooted cultural significance of music education in Japanese society.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a dramatic decrease in live music events, the data indicates a robust recovery. In 2024, the number of registered music-related events surpassed pre-pandemic levels, suggesting a strong resurgence in live performances and a renewed enthusiasm for music among fans.
Snow Man, another prominent group, hosted the TV program 'Sore Snow Man ni Rawarasete Kudasai,' which also saw a high number of registrations. This further exemplifies the intertwining of music and television in Japanese culture, where music-related programming attracts significant viewer engagement.
Looking beyond Japan, the report explored the impact of Japanese music on international audiences, particularly in South Korea and Taiwan. Analysis of schedules from these regions revealed that fans were more likely to register events related to Japanese artists, indicating a strong interest in Japanese culture and music. In South Korea, users displayed a tendency to register plans that included visits to Japanese cities, while Taiwanese users showed interest in anime-related events and Japanese language learning.
This connection between music and broader cultural phenomena is particularly noteworthy, as many Japanese songs that have gained international popularity are often linked to anime. This trend underscores the global appeal of Japanese music and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
The upcoming MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN, scheduled for May 21 and 22, 2025, at the Rome Theater in Kyoto, will celebrate the achievements of both domestic and international artists. This event, which will be broadcast live on NHK and distributed worldwide via YouTube, aims to honor the contributions of music to society and foster a greater appreciation for the art form.
As the event approaches, nominations and final voting for the nominated songs and artists will commence on April 17, 2025. The MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN serves as a platform for artists to showcase their talents and for fans to engage with the music they love.
According to TimeTree's report, the integration of music into daily life is not merely a trend but a reflection of the cultural fabric of Japan. As TimeTree Future General Research Institute Director Yasuhiro Fukagawa stated, “Through the analysis of over 12 billion schedules, we can see how music enriches our lives and fosters connections among people.”
In conclusion, the data presented by TimeTree not only highlights the current landscape of the Japanese music scene but also emphasizes the enduring significance of music in the lives of individuals and communities. As the world eagerly anticipates the MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN, it is clear that music continues to play a central role in shaping cultural identities and fostering connections across the globe.
