Synopsis

With a microphone in hand, tens of millions of people across Japan sing their hearts out in the nation's ubiquitous karaoke boxes. These private rooms offer a convivial setting for friends to forge bonds, though the solo box is increasingly favored as well. We will explore how the karaoke box has woven itself into the fabric of Japanese life. Joining us today is Kyoko Koizumi, a sociologist whose research centers on the interplay between people and music.