Just J-pop: Dreams Come True Part 1

レアジョブ英会話 Daily News Article Podcast

The duo Dreams Come True have charmed millions of listeners across Asia thanks to their breezy funk-indebted pop hits. Yet the pair have also connected with millions more in an under-the-radar way — the group frequently writes music for the video game Sonic The Hedgehog. Masato Nakamura and Miwa Yoshida have connected with J-pop fans while also contributing memorable music to the world of Sega’s energetic hedgehog. While the two might not be famous as pioneers when it comes to creating soundtracks to famous home console titles, they have played a major role in making tunes that are instantly recognized by gamers all over the world. Dreams Come True formed in 1988 as a trio that included keyboardist Takahiro Nishikawa. Almost immediately, they became superstars at home. Their blend of jazz, funk and rock came wrapped around catchy hooks, making for an irresistible mix of sounds. Their self-titled debut album sold very well when it came out in 1989, and their subsequent releases were even more popular. In the mid-1990s, Dreams Come True decided to make a play for the American market. They left Sony Music — causing the company’s stock price to plummet — and signed with Virgin Records America. However, their efforts to cross over failed. They were hurt partly by bad marketing, but also by the mistake they made in changing their style to a more hip-hop-inspired sound that failed to connect with U.S. audiences and alienated Japanese fans. To be continued… This article was provided by The Japan Times Alpha.