Through my work in the music industry, I have secured record deals with local labels for foreign musicians and have organized releases and tours overseas. As a columnist and DJ, I've been sent CDs from countless bands seeking promotion. I know there is no easy route to success in the business. And for foreign musicians based in Japan, it's that much harder.
The bulk of the market is made up of domestic acts, while the criteria that foreign acts are usually judged upon is their standing in their own countries. Based on the accounts of the musicians I spoke with, foreigners are placed in a precarious no-man's land.
Being in a foreign band is a double-edged sword, says Michael Rayner of Minx.
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