Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- prominent / ˈprɒm ə nənt / (adj.) – important and famous
Example:The young man comes from a politically prominent family.
- rarity / ˈrɛər ɪ ti / (n.) – someone or something that’s not common or usual
Example:They say that kind people are a rarity these days.
- up-and-coming / ˈʌp ənˈkʌm ɪŋ / (adj.) – likely to become successful or popular in the future
Example:The magazine featured a lot of up-and-coming musicians.
- top-notch / ˈtɒpˈnɒtʃ / (adj.) – of the highest quality
Example:The restaurant is famous for its delicious food and top-notch service.
- following / ˈfɒl oʊ ɪŋ / (n.) – a group of people who follow or admire someone or something
Example:The singer has a huge following on all his social media platforms.
Article
Read the text below.
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.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Miura started releasing songs and videos which often were directed and planned by him, a rarity in the controlled world of Japanese pop music. Why do you think the music industry often tries to control artists so much? Discuss.
- Miura established a strong following and connected with other creators in his home country — all through his own creativity. Do you think artists who are in control of their own creativity are better than artists who are strongly influenced or controlled by the music industry? Why or why not? Discuss.
Discussion B
- Miura started off as part of a group called Folder. Eventually, he debuted as a solo act in 2005. Do you think he would’ve been as successful if he had stayed as a member of a group? Do you know any musicians whose solo careers failed? Discuss.
- Miura started releasing music that touch on a wide variety of sounds, including hip-hop, R&B, and dance music. In your opinion, what’s the best music genre? Why? Discuss.