Why are Japanese Gen Zers obsessed with vinyl records again?
REPORT
30 Apr 2024
Why are Japanese Gen Zers obsessed with vinyl records again?

Japan has long been a haven for music lovers and a bastion of nostalgia, particularly for fans of vinyl records. Recently, the country got a breath of fresh air from the unexpected but welcome crowd of Gen Z listeners. What’s fuelling the younger generation’s desire to connect with analogue music?

Justin Ner

A veteran San Francisco-based DJ since 1998, Justin Ner’s (Nerstylist) devotion to his craft continues to drive him to develop the perfect set. His musical tastes are vast, ranging from jazz, soul, funk, house, Latin, and broken beat to Japanese city pop. His journey as a selector has granted him the opportunity to play internationally in destinations like London, Hong Kong, Manila, and Japan. He's been fortunate enough to share billing with artists like Kai Alcé, Aroop Roy, and XL Middleton and has opened for talents such as Mark de Clive-Lowe. With his DJ sets featured on Jazz FM, Eaton Radio, and Love Will Save The Day FM, Nerstylist's involvement with the worldwide DJ community is never-ending. His undying love for travel, vinyl culture, and connecting with music lovers around the world are where he draws his passion and inspiration from.

Kevin Nam

Kevin Nam is a record collector and DJ who operates under the stage name ‘Kaistar.’ Specialising in funk, disco, boogie, and Japanese city pop, he operates the monthly city pop event ‘Tokyo Love Song’ with his friend and accomplished artist XL Middleton. His involvement with street dance and music has led him to feature in Japan, China, Korea, Singapore, and more.

Samantha Beltran

Sam has worked as a writer and editor with top publications in the Philippines and around Asia for the past 10 years. She also helps brands craft narratives and connect with audiences as a communications consultant. When not writing, she’s looking for the next hole-in-the-wall, digging through secondhand record crates, or parenting her dog.