Most people think of Chiang Mai for its ancient temples and mountain scenery, but I discovered another side of the city—a place where traditional music and modern live performances blend together almost everywhere you go.
Some Japanese bands get heavier. DIR EN GREY went somewhere dark. And somehow, they took millions of people with them.
One evening I discovered a song called *Jade* by X Japan, and I was captivated from the very first listen. That one song led me to discover one of Japan’s most influential rock bands.
Late one night, I was watching old Japanese rock concert videos, and I came across a band that helped pave the way for the Japanese female rock bands we know today. SHOW-YA.
When people think of Godzilla, they usually picture the giant monster. I found myself wondering about something else… Who wrote the music that made Godzilla feel so unforgettable?
Most people think of Seoul when they think about Korean music. But Busan is quietly creating a musical identity all its own.
Malaysia’s music is a fascinating blend of cultures, traditions and modern sounds. The more I explored it, the more I realized there isn’t just one Malaysian sound.
Japan has produced some remarkable female rock guitarists. Here are three players whose talent, passion and very different journeys have inspired fans around the world.
Some of the world’s oldest musical traditions are still alive today. The beautiful sound of the Philippine kulintang is one of them.
One night I was casually scrolling through Instagram. Then I stopped. A young guitarist from Thailand was absolutely on fire. Nene Royal.
Sometimes the best musical discoveries happen by pure chance. One album cover in a Bangkok street market introduced me to one of Indonesia’s most unforgettable voices.
Everybody knows karaoke, but discovering a live band waiting for singers was something I never expected. It turned into one of my favorite music surprises in Japan.
Sometimes the best musical discoveries happen when you’re not looking for them. That’s exactly how I came across one of Korea’s most energetic young guitarists, MEMI.
Traditional Thai dance isn’t just something you watch. Once you begin listening to the music behind every movement, it becomes a completely different experience.
Sometimes you find a band once… and then completely forget how good they are. Let’s rediscover HAGANE
A fascinating Japanese idea about music, emotion and water that continues to inspire curiosity and debate around the world.
A quiet evening walk through Seoul’s Hongdae district led Tess to one of the coziest music experiences she’s ever discovered.
Explore how Japanese music videos often use different storytelling techniques and visual traditions compared to many Western productions.
Explore how Japan’s all-female rock and metal bands are building international audiences and redefining modern rock music.
Explore the differences between Okinawa’s Sanshin and mainland Japan’s Shamisen, and discover how regional culture shaped their unique sounds.
Explore the Sanshin, Okinawa’s most famous traditional instrument, and discover why its sound remains an important part of the region’s musical identity.
Explore why Thai music often feels deeply emotional and how Thailand developed one of Asia’s most distinctive musical identities.
Explore Ochanomizu Guitar Street and discover why it remains one of the most important destinations for musicians in Japan.
Explore the history of Tokyo Dome and why it remains one of Japan’s most important concert venues for both domestic and international artists.
Discover how many Japanese bands build their careers through live performance, gradual growth, and eventually reach iconic venues like Budokan.
