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Excerpts:

There’s no longer a doubt in anyone’s mind that there is Japanese influence in American pop culture like never before. With the mainstream and commercial success of anime and video gaming, Japanese pop culture is gaining greater acceptance in American society.

But after video gaming, anime and manga, what’s the next wave? Is there a quiet storm brewing? If you ask any otaku — a hardcore anime fan — they would tell you that Japanese pop music, or “J-pop,” is what’s catching on fast.

The newest shift among American teenagers is happening with J-pop idols like Hyde and Glay. At anime conventions, American fans go so far as cosplaying (masquerading) as their favorite J-pop performers. The cultural and language barrier doesn’t stop American fans from connecting with the music of J-pop.

As J-pop performers began seeking worldwide success, they looked to the United States. Artists like Utada Hikaru signed with Def Jam Records. In 2004, she released an album for an English-speaking audience, but the crossover album was not commercially successful. Unfortunately, no J-pop artists have experienced commercial success in the United States.

Up until now, J-pop performers have relied on the anime market to enter the U.S. market, often performing live concerts at anime conventions. However, there is a growing trend to limit and even distance ties to anime.

Read it: J-Pop Is the Quiet Storm in American Culture

The article mentions Ayu and also contains an interview with the pillows.