As 2017 draws to a close, Oricon has finally chosen to publish the results of their annual Favorite Artist poll. This ranking is based on a survey that the company runs each year which polls 20,000 Japanese citizens of various different age groups in order to acquire a respectable representation of the public’s opinion. While it is likely not totally accurate, the poll remains a very interesting statistic to consider, particularly when compared to the results for previous years.
There have been a number of shifts over the past year, most notably that popular rock band Mr.Children have risen to the top of the ranking for the first time in 8 years. Many respondents cited the band’s mature musical style and the ‘humanity’ present within their lyrics as key factors for their choice. Following them at #2 is singer/songwriter Hikaru Utada, who was #5 last year, and well-known idol group Arashi falls to #3 after topping the ranking for 7 consecutive years. Also of note is the rise of acts back number and Gen Hoshino, who have placed at #6 and #9 respectively, both largely garnering support from Japan’s young people.
Read on below for a look at both the full Favorite Artist ranking and the Demographic breakdowns.
-Oricon Favorite Artist Ranking 2017-
- Mr.Children (↑2)
- Hikaru Utada (↑3)
- Arashi (↓2)
- B’z (-)
- Ikimonogakari (↓3)
- back number (↑10)
- Yuzu (-)
- Spitz (↑2)
- Gen Hoshino (↑29)
- SMAP (↓4)
- Perfume (↑2)
- Kana Nishino (-)
- BUMP OF CHICKEN (↑1)
- KinKi Kids (↑1)
- Namie Amuro (↓4)
- GReeeeN (↑11)
- AAA (↑13)
- TOKIO (-)
- Nogizaka46 (↑17)
- Kanjani8 (↑3)
Comments