City Pop is Japanese 1970s-80s pop genre blending funk, disco, R&B, and AOR, experiencing massive internet revival (2017+) through YouTube algorithm recommendations and vaporwave-adjacent aesthetics. Mariya Takeuchi’s “Plastic Love” became surprise viral hit 35 years after release, introducing global audiences to Japan’s bubble economy soundtrack.
The Genre (Original Era)
1970s-80s Japanese pop:
- Funk, disco, R&B fusion
- Sophisticated production
- Urban, cosmopolitan themes
- Bubble economy optimism
- AOR (adult-oriented rock)
“Plastic Love” Phenomenon
Mariya Takeuchi’s 1984 song:
- 2017 YouTube upload went viral
- Millions of views
- Introduced City Pop to West
- Algorithm magic
The Revival
Why City Pop resurged:
- Vaporwave aesthetic connections
- Nostalgic yet fresh
- YouTube recommendations
- Sample culture
- Lo-fi hip-hop adjacent
Western Discovery
Fans embraced:
- Without understanding lyrics
- Pure vibes, production
- Exotic yet familiar
- Digital archaeology
Vinyl Resurgence
City Pop vinyl:
- Reissues selling out
- Original pressings expensive
- Boutique label releases
- Physical media renaissance
Sources:
- Plastic Love Viral Analysis
- City Pop Revival Documentation
- Japanese Music Export Studies