As Yoko Ono prepares to take the stage at Fuji Rock Festival on July 26, a BBC video of her performing the 1969 Plastic Ono Band track "Don't Worry Kyoko" at this year's Glastonbury festival has racked up nearly 2 million views, largely from people tuning in to see the "worst live performance of all time."
Comments on the Japanese Twittersphere largely followed the pattern set overseas, garnished with an added frisson of national shame. Some placed her raw performance alongside the mewling antics of disgraced politician Ryutaro Nonomura in the pantheon of "Those Who Have Shamed Japan."
"I'm so embarrassed as a Japanese," wrote one concerned citizen. "Sorry, but that old hippy is no good," contributed another. Others suggested it was “like watching your grandma do karaoke,” while one remarked, "Look at the miserable faces of the backing band!"
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