j-pop's dream factory

it's always inordinately fascinating to read a western/outsider's perspective on the the japanese music industry, tho now i find myself noeing way more bt morning musume than i ever needed to.


Welcome to Japan's bizarre music industry, where the iron rules governing the production line of boy and girl bands would impress even Britain's biggest Svengali. Chris Campion meets the groups, managers and fans - and tracks down the kingpin who for 40 years has held a nation's lucrative pop world in his grasp

Sunday August 21, 2005
Observer Music Monthly

( like meeting the wizard of oz )