Just J-pop: Daichi Miura Part 2

Continued from Part 1… Eventually, Miura set off on his own. After a period where he met with prominent Western songwriters and dancers, he debuted as a solo act in 2005. He linked up with prominent company Avex, and began releasing original material touching on a wide variety of sounds, including hip-hop, R&B and dance music. By the 2010s, though, Miura was ready to establish himself as a star. He started releasing songs and videos showcasing his wide range of talents — and which often were directed and planned by him, a rarity in the controlled world of Japanese pop music. He often worked with up-and-coming producers, giving him a cutting-edge sound. Miura became a big name in Japan, highlighted by his top-notch dancing skills and attention to detail. He’s since become a global ambassador for J-pop. Miura has worked closely with the Japanese government and has even performed in Vietnam as part of a special Japan-centric music event. He’s caught the attention of other creatives too — video game creator Hideo Kojima included Miura in his hit title Death Stranding. The Olympics would have — and might still — push him to another level, but Miura has already shown the benefits of being an artist in control of his creative side. He’s established a strong following and connected with other creators in his home country — all through his own creativity. (Patrick St. Michel) This article was provided by The Japan Times Alpha.