Hip-hop is a major force on the American music charts, but its presence has been less prominent in Japan. Elements of the wider culture have found their way into teenage wardrobes and pop-video dance routines, but even Japanese rappers admit they have a hard time grabbing the attention of new fans.
Over the past year, however, a group of female musicians have been experimenting with rap vocals in their songs. It¡¯s being called rap by the Japanese press, but is so far removed from the genre that it may be a new style altogether.
¡°Our music is completely different from hip-hop,¡± says Komuai, the lead singer of trio . ¡°My voice really isn¡¯t for rap,¡± she adds. ¡°I enjoy the uncomfortable feeling it makes when I try to (do it), though.¡±
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