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Q6. How did you start it? (Is the
Music industry in Japan similar to the US?)
I started it mostly as a PA and mobile recording
company in North Carolina in 1993, but after I relocated to
Osaka in 2004 I found that I'd have to change my focus. Basically
the things I did in America (build road cases for instruments,
PA system rental for parties, mobile recording) couldn't be
done here in Japan. Things work on a much smaller scale here
compared to the US as far as mobile music production, so I
had to come up with a new plan. After doing almost 2 years
of research, I came upon the idea of basically becoming a
booking agent and tour manager for musicians interested in
performing in Japan . . . and things have taken off from there.
Q7. Is it a big challenge for you
to have your own business in Japan? Tell me about it.
Not really. Business is business, making
money is the main goal and if you can't do that then you lose,
no matter what country you live in. I've been in the music
industry for many years and very little has changed as far
as business attitudes. One big thing I've learned from living
in Japan and doing business here though, is the value of customer
service and putting the customer ahead of your own sense of
pride. It really does make a difference.
The biggest challenge I face in what I'm doing however, is
trying to convince a culture of Japanese musicians that there
is a better way for independent musicians to go about playing
live music than what they are doing now. It has been extremely
difficult to get people to understand what I'm doing and to
come along.
Q8. Any funny/horrible stories while
you've been in business in Japan?
Besides making lots of mistakes and losing
a large amount of money with the first artist I set up a tour
for, no nothing in particular.
Q9. Do you have any advice for foreigners
interested in starting their own business in Japan?
Yes.
1 Understand and be familiar with Japanese culture
2 To be taken seriously, know your own business in & out
3 Be familiar with or ready to learn about the Japanese business
culture
4 If you want your business to develop faster learn Japanese,
both writing & speaking, at least at a conversational
level
5 You will need a large amount of confidence, in yourself
and in your work.
Q10. What are your goals for future?
I am looking to create a network for independent
musicians, both inside & outside of Japan that will enable
them to perform live shows, make money, have a great time
and build a fan base that they can continue to grow without
the help of big record companies.
Q11. What is your favorite Japanese
proverb?
Saru no hito mane (Monkey see, monkey do)
Q12. Message to WhyNot!? users!
WhyNot!? Japan is a great way to meet people,
both online and at events. For those of you who say, ''I'm
shy. I don't want to go by myself,'' I say ''Get up, put on
your shoes and go for it!'' It's almost always more fun than
sitting at home.
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