Yuming's The 14th Moon

Matsutoya Yumi, known by her stage name Yuming, is a significant figure in Japanese popular music history. She is a singer-songwriter whose songs have been used in Miyazaki Hayao's animations and has captured the hearts of listeners of different generations since her debut in the early 1970s. Her fourth album, The 14th Moon, released in 1976, was a milestone in establishing her signature style, the posh, "city" sound that later paved the way to the 1980s City Pop and 1990s J-pop. This book explores how Yuming revolutionized the position of women in Japanese popular music and how her work can help us understand social changes in Japan of the 1970s.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

It is not an exaggeration to say that Matsutoya Yumi, better known by her stage name Yuming, is one of the most influential figures in Japanese popular music history. A singer-songwriter recognized globally for her songs used in Miyazaki Hayao's beloved animations, Yuming has captured the hearts of listeners of different generations since her debut in the early 1970s. Her fourth album, The 14th Moon, released in 1976, was a milestone in establishing her signature style: the posh, "city" sound that later paved the way to the 1980s City Pop and 1990s J-pop. In addition to examining the album's astonishing stylistic versatility, this book explores how Yuming revolutionized the position of women in Japanese popular music and how her work can help us understand social changes in Japan of the 1970s.

Introduction:
Matsutoya Yumi, better known by her stage name Yuming, is a singer-songwriter who has made an indelible mark on Japanese popular music history. Her songs have been featured in numerous anime films, including those directed by Miyazaki Hayao, earning her widespread recognition both in Japan and internationally. Yuming's debut in the early 1970s marked the beginning of a remarkable career that has spanned several decades. In this book, we will delve into the life and work of Yuming, exploring her impact on Japanese popular music and society.

Yuming's Musical Journey:
Yuming's musical journey began in the early 1970s, when she released her debut album, "Yuming." The album was a critical success, and Yuming quickly established herself as a rising star in the Japanese music scene. Her subsequent albums, including "The 14th Moon," released in 1976, solidified her position as a leading figure in Japanese popular music. The album showcased Yuming's unique blend of pop, rock, and jazz, and her sophisticated lyrics and vocal style set her apart from other artists of her time.

Yuming's Influence on Japanese Popular Music:
Yuming's influence on Japanese popular music cannot be overstated. She was one of the first female musicians to achieve significant success in the Japanese music industry, and her work paved the way for other female artists to follow in her footsteps. Yuming's songs were often characterized by their sophisticated and elegant sound, and her lyrics often dealt with themes of love, loss, and social change. Her work resonated with listeners of different generations, and she has been credited with helping to shape the sound of Japanese popular music.

Yuming's Signature Style:
Yuming's signature style is characterized by its posh, "city" sound. This style was a departure from the traditional Japanese music scene, which was often dominated by male musicians and traditional folk songs. Yuming's music was influenced by a range of genres, including pop, rock, jazz, and classical music, and she incorporated these influences into her work to create a unique and distinctive sound. Her songs often featured sophisticated arrangements, intricate melodies, and sophisticated lyrics, which helped to establish her as a pioneer in Japanese popular music.

Yuming's Impact on Women in Japanese Popular Music:
Yuming's impact on women in Japanese popular music cannot be underestimated. She was a trailblazer who challenged the traditional gender roles and stereotypes that were prevalent in the music industry at the time. Yuming's success as a female musician opened doors for other women to pursue careers in music, and her work helped to break down the barriers that had prevented women from achieving success in the industry.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Matsutoya Yumi, better known by her stage name Yuming, is one of the most influential figures in Japanese popular music history. Her songs have been featured in numerous anime films, and her unique blend of pop, rock, and jazz has resonated with listeners of different generations. Yuming's influence on Japanese popular music cannot be overstated, and her work has helped to shape the sound of the industry. In addition to her musical contributions, Yuming's work has also had a significant impact on women in Japanese popular music, challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes and paving the way for other female artists to achieve success.

Dimension: 197 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501378133