April 28th 2024 O.A.
Charm of Japanese music
An event happened at Culver City on April 9th to promote the charm of Japanese music to the US, and Japanese all-female band “ATARASHII GAKKO!” performed.
This event was held by ATARASHII GAKKO!’s American record label, 88rising to promote Japanese music to the US which JETRO’s LA office cosponsored.
Industry individuals and media were invited.
The event began by Yusuke Nakagawa representing ASOBISYSTEM, the management company of “ATARASHII GAKKO!” stating his greeting.
Followed by 88rising’s CEO Sean Miyashiro giving his speech stating his strong hopes for Japanese musicians expanding to the US music industry.
88rising is a record label known for working with many Asian artists.
On April 14th, the company hosted a special stage “88 Rising Futures” at Coachella, one of the largest music festivals in the US.
Along with Asia’s top stars, 4 Japanese artists, “YOASOBI”, “ATARASHII GAKKO!”, “Awich”, and “Number_i” performed at the event.
And appeared “ATARASHII GAKKO!” performing 4 songs including their newest number.
The group made a global debut in 2021 through 88rising and grew into a group with over 15 million followers on their social media accounts.
They have fans all over the world despite their lyrics being mostly Japanese.
“ATARASHII GAKKO!” call themselves “The representatives of Japanese youth.”
Sakura Gardens’ Sushi Day
Saturday, March 30th was “Sushi Day” for Sakura Gardens, a retirement home located in Boyle Heights.
This event is held by the Japanese Restaurant Association of America, and sushi chefs served sushi to the residents.
JRA is a nonprofit organization that is made of restaurant managers and food companies.
This is the 25th year for Sushi Day at this retirement home. The chefs from “Katsuya” and “Sushi Gen” served “Nigiri” and “Makimono” to the residents, showing their appreciation.
120 sushi were served with ingredients from 8 food companies for free.
25 volunteers including the sushi chefs served them to the residents saying “Arigato.”
Jina Maleksarkissians who became the executive director of the retirement home stated her thanks for the Sushi Day.
And a appreciation plaque was sent to President Shinji Kugita of JRA.
Orchids were also sent to other companies by the residents as well.