Big in Japan

By Sam Zipursky

We've interviewed a lot of entertainment industry figures over the years at Japanzine, but few have the credentials of Mr. Aaron Walker. TV producer, event producer, music producer... basically, if it can be produced, he's your man. Taking time out from his busy schedule over MJTV, Aaron generously gave up his free time to guide us along the tricky path to happiness and riches in the Japanese entertainment industry (no, not that kind of entertainment industry. Get your mind out of the gutter and have a gander at this...)

So when did you touch down in Japan and what's your hustle out here?

My first visit to Japan came in 1996, while I was on trip around the world shooting a documentary. I decided to come back to settle in Japan in 2002 on a mission to make it big in the Japanese entertainment industry. I now work for one of the major music television broadcasters in Japan as a producer.

How'd you end up in Osaka?

Actually, it was never my plan to build a life in Osaka, or even Japan for that matter.  Before coming to Japan, I had studied a little Chinese and was actively working in the Chinese Entertainment Industry. I was traveling frequently between China and America, working as a music producer and concert event stage manager. 8 years ago, I was on a promotional tour in Japan managing a hip-hop artist from the States. At that time, I was introduced to a lot of people in the Japanese entertainment industry and I dreamed of one day working in Japanese music television. With hard work and persistence, that dream came true.

You've been doing creative stuff all your life. Tell us a bit about what you did before Japan.

Since my early teens, I have been professionally producing music and television.  Musically, I started as a drummer and transitioned into writing and producing for famous American pop artists the Backstreet Boys, smooth jazz artist Tom Grant, and even producing Canto-pop music in Hong /China. At a young age, I established my own entertainment production company and have now traveled world-wide doing video and music production in over 30 countries.

What kind of projects are you involved at the moment?

Currently, I produce and direct several programs at MJTV - music video requests, live performance, and new artist introduction programs. I am also involved in developing new business ideas and involved with the production of several live events each month. One project that I am really excited about right now is a new broadcasting system that I invented and developed a few years ago, now putting it to use in MJTV. My system receives keitai video movies from viewers in real time. Viewers can request music videos, or send a message. We broadcast the viewers keitai movies, giving YOU, the viewer, the power to host the show instead of the traditional VJ preaching to the viewers. I believe I am the first in the world to launch this type of system and look forward to developing it further.

What would you say the biggest difference is between working in the entertainment industry in Japan compared to back home?

The actual production equipment is basically the same, but with most operation menus in Japanese. The BIG difference is the way of doing everything. The total end goals are different. In the States, if you want to do something, you do it. Here in Japan, ideas are combed through by “the group”. This process leads to making compromises in many areas; not necessarily making the best looking or sounding production or event, but best overall harmony with the people on the production side - the artists, artist management, venue and audience. This works for Japan. Regarding money, of course the market is a bit more limited, but if you get the right break, it is possible to make big money in the Japanese entertainment industry.

Being a foreign dude, was it easy or hard to get into the industry? 

It can be very difficult for anyone to break into the industry in Japan. Especially challenging for a foreigner. However, Japan is a land of big opportunity. If you are up for the challenges and can be patient yet persistent, your goals can be reached.  As a pioneer, you must blaze a new trail. The novelty of being a foreigner eventually wears off and the high expectations are set for you to do even better than your co-workers. As a television producer, I am one of the only foreigners living in Japan who produces and directs television programs broadcast nationally throughout Japan.

Could you give us a few tips on how to get connected out here and grow your job opportunities in entertainment?

Be open to meeting many new people from a wide variety of backgrounds. I believe that some people come into our lives for a reason. It might not be revealed right away, but everyone is connected to someone else, someone who might help you to advance toward your goals. For that reason, it is important not to discount anyone upon first meeting. I think this is an import part of making connections to do anything, not only advancement in the Entertainment Industry. It is also very important to maintain your relations, especially in Japan. Build your human network. More opportunities will be opened to you based on just being in touch with those in your network. Refine your network, as it should be ever expanding and evolving.

So what are you working towards now, and what's in the future plans?

I will continue to branch out in the international entertainment scene and continue to develop my international business and language skills. In Japan, I am also involved with promotion of foreign artists. This month (on the 22nd) I am directing an event and television show at GIZA Hills Pan in Kita Horie Osaka with Tokyo artist JJ, who is a J-pop artist originally from the UK. One of my long-term goals is to continue to build a bridge to opportunities in Asia for Western artists. I go out to many events every week, constantly checking out new bands and performers. I am always looking to discover all kinds of new talent, so if you think you’ve got something, let me know!

For people who want to know more about you or try and get in touch with you, what's the best way?

Please visit my web page, www.aaronwalker.com, or feel free to email me at  aaron@aaronwalker.com.

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