Japan has been renowned for quirky and innovative things from crazy game-shows to technology. AKB48, an all-female idol group is revolutionising pop culture by being “a mass-production, mass-marketing, mass presence affair” according to Japan Times.
Starting in 2005, producer Yasushi Akimoto formed the group with the intention of having 16 members each in teams A, K and B. The girls ranging from 14 to 24 were selected out of 7,924 contestants in an audition, according to AKB48's website.
At least one of the teams performs daily in Akihabara at the exclusive AKB48 Theatre, whilst the other members are busy at promotions or events.
This band has really emphasised on exposure as a key to success. Akimoto’s concept of ‘meeting real idols daily’ has worked as there are many opportunities for AKB48 to connect with fans. There are also strong connections to Japanese advertisers which boost the band’s image.
The size of this group is also big and raises the question of whether it is manageable. The emergence of large bands are becoming popular also in Korea and whether this trend will also be picked up in other parts of Asia – only time will tell.
Here's one of their songs:
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