Honky-Tonk Tokyo (2020)
15 days ago
- #country-music
- #japan-culture
- #texas
- George Strait's presence in a Tokyo bar named Little Texas highlights the unexpected popularity of country music in Japan.
- Natsuco Grace Yoshino and her husband Takeshi Yoshino's deep love for Texas led them to open Little Texas, a bar filled with Texan memorabilia.
- The couple has been honored as honorary Texans by then-Governor Rick Perry in 2011.
- Tokyo's country music scene includes various bars and stores dedicated to Western wear and country music culture.
- Country music's popularity in Japan dates back to post-WWII, influenced by American troops and radio stations like the Far East Network (FEN).
- Eddie Chmura, an American expat, became a key figure in Tokyo's country music scene, forming his own band and performing regularly.
- Japanese country music artists like Tomi Fujiyama and Charlie Nagatani have achieved significant success, including performances at the Grand Ole Opry.
- J.T. Kanehira, owner of the Lone Star Cafe in Tokyo, has been a lifelong country music enthusiast and performer.
- Despite its niche appeal, the future of country music in Japan faces challenges due to an aging fan base and declining population.
- The enduring passion for country music in Japan reflects a unique cultural blend and admiration for American culture.