A Guide to J-Pop in the 1980s

The overwhelming popularity of idols, the all-encompassing Band Boom, and the rise of City Pop, ensured that the 1980s would be an unforgettable era in the Japanese music scene. Join A-to-J Connections as we examine the various bands, genres, and songs that made the decade one that we still talk about today. Chart toppers like Akemi Ishii, THE CHECKERS, C-C-B, and Anzen Chitai cross paths with City Pop artists like Monta & Brothers, Akira Terao, ANRI, and MANY others!

A Journey Through Music Anime

Anime is filled with many great stories of people making music together. So many styles of music are represented in anime whether it be rock, jazz, pop, or metal. We'll be discussing the music and stories that make these anime so great! From modern classics like Bocchi The Rock to the jazz filled stories of Shinichiro Watanabe, come and dive into the world of music anime.

Emo Music in Japan

Explore the history of the Japanese emo scene, learn about its global influences, and discover new music! See how artists have made the genre uniquely their own, from Eastern Youth (Japan's answer to Fugazi), PENS+ (mathy emo), to That Same Street (Vocaloid digital screamo).

IDOL 101: The J-Pop Idol Timeline

Are you a fan of groups like Morning Musume, AKB48, BiS, or FRUITS ZIPPER and want to learn more about the history of J-Pop Idols? Join A-to-J Connections examining The J-Pop Idol Timeline from its early days in the 70s, the Idol Boom of the 80s, and all the way to today! All sorts of groups and genres will be covered, and even the most hardcore are sure to learn something new! The Idol fandom has never been bigger, and you can see where it all began right here in this panel!

Johnny's & Associates: A History

With huge names like Masahiko Kondo, Toshihiko Tahara, Hikaru GENJI, SMAP, ARASHI, and KAT-TUN, Johnny's & Associates would grow to point where they became the biggest force in the Japanese music industry. Join A-to-J Connections as we go through the history of this idol collective from their humble beginnings, all the way to their shocking downfall. We'll examine the big soloists and groups, the music, and their eventual transition to Starto Entertainment.

What the Heck Is an Ocarina?

You've seen the Ocarina in gaming and anime, but it's a real instrument with a rich history. Learn about Ocarinas from a professional ocarinist! This panel will go over the real history of ocarinas, their popularization in Japanese media, their spread into America, what's going on with them now, and resources for you to start learning the instrument.