Sayonara Amerika, Sayonara Nippon - (Asia Perspectives: History, Society, and Culture) by Michael Bourdaghs (Paperback)

Sayonara Amerika, Sayonara Nippon is a groundbreaking study of Japanese popular music in the post-war period, offering a unique perspective on the country's cultural production during this time.

Through an innovative blend of musicology, literary analysis, and cultural theory, Michael K.

Bourdaghs sheds light on the complex ways in which Japanese artists and audiences navigated their country's uncomfortable position under American hegemony. The book explores a range of genres, including boogie-woogie, rockabilly, enka, 1960s rock and roll, 1970s new music, folk, and techno-pop, and examines their cultural significance through various theoretical lenses.

From the liberating potential of music to the commodification of everyday life, from gender hierarchies to national identity, Bourdaghs' analysis reveals the richness and diversity of Japanese popular music during this pivotal period in history. With a focus on the post-bubble period of the early 1990s, this book provides a comprehensive and engaging account of Japan's musical landscape during a time of rapid change and cultural upheaval.

Whether you are a fan of music, history, or cultural studies, Sayonara Amerika, Sayonara Nippon is an essential read that will deepen your understanding of this fascinating country and its complex relationship with the United States.