As Japan Ages, Pop 'Idols' Aren't as Spry as They Used to Be

Aging Japan

--Daniel Grunebaum's story on Japan's aging pop stars and their aging fans (ouch): The New York Times/IHT

'Nostalgia also may play a role in the current prominence of aging talents in Japan’s entertainment industry. Roland Kelts, media commentator and author of the book “Japanamerica,” said Japanese baby boomers were seeking reassurance from aging stars in the way Western fans have for years. “There’s a point at which rock and pop stop being celebrations of youth, rebellion and forward-thinking,” he said, “and start becoming celebrations of themselves — a way of confirming that they the entertainers, and we the fans,” are still relevant.'


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