From “EIGHT‑JAM” to the Next Wave of Music Culture: What’s Coming Next?
TV Asahi’s hit series EIGHT‑JAM has become a laboratory for everything from music fundamentals to behind‑the‑scenes production tricks. With guests like Shikao Suga, producer Akimitsu Honma, mabanua and ROY of the indie rock quartet THE BAWDIES, the show proves that deep‑dive music content still draws massive audiences—especially when it taps into the enduring fascination with Western pop and rock.
Trend #1 – Interactive Music Education on TV and Streaming
Audiences are no longer satisfied with passive viewing. Shows that blend basic theory with hands‑on demos (think “how to write a chord progression in three minutes”) see higher retention on platforms like TVer and TELASA. According to a 2024 Nielsen report, programs that include real‑time viewer quizzes increase average watch time by 27 %.
Trend #2 – Cross‑Cultural Fusion: Western Hits Meet J‑Pop Sensibilities
When ROY broke down Oasis’s infamous Gallagher brothers’ drama, he highlighted a universal story: rock’s raw energy can translate across language barriers. This has sparked a new wave of collaborations—Japanese artists covering classic British songs, and Western musicians seeking Japanese production talent.
Data from the IFPI Global Music Report 2023 shows a 15 % rise in streaming of 1990s UK rock tracks in Japan, propelled largely by TV features and curated playlists.
Trend #3 – The Rise of “Music‑Doc” Streaming Series
Programs that merge documentary storytelling with music analysis (e.g., “EIGHT‑JAM’s” deep dive on Prince’s “unreproducible sound”) are gaining traction on on‑demand services. A recent Statista survey found that 48 % of users aged 18‑34 watch “music‑doc” content at least twice a month.
Trend #4 – AI‑Assisted Production Meets Classic Techniques
While “EIGHT‑JAM” celebrates analog legends like Prince, the next frontier blends AI‑driven mixing tools with vintage gear. Early adopters in Tokyo’s indie scene report a 20 % reduction in post‑production time without sacrificing the “human feel” that fans love.
What This Means for Musicians, Fans, and Broadcasters
For musicians, the message is clear: mastering the basics still matters, but leveraging interactive platforms and AI can amplify reach. For fans, expect more behind‑the‑scenes content that feels like a masterclass. For broadcasters, the sweet spot lies in marrying compelling narratives (think Oasis’s brotherly brawls) with actionable learning moments.
FAQ
- Is “EIGHT‑JAM” available outside Japan?
- Yes – episodes are streamed for free on TVer and TELASA with subtitles.
- How can I learn the music fundamentals shown on the program?
- Start with the series’ “Basic Theory” segments, then practice with the downloadable worksheets linked in each episode’s description.
- Will AI replace human producers?
- AI is a tool, not a replacement. It speeds up repetitive tasks, while creative decisions still rely on human intuition and experience.
- Where can I find more data on music streaming trends?
- Check the IFPI Global Music Report and Statista’s music industry stats.
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