Think about it: Sony Music Entertainment is one of the biggest record companies in the world; Yamaha is the largest manufacturer of musical instruments globally; Japan has the sixth-largest population worldwide; and the music industry generates billions of dollars every year. Yet, how many Japanese artists have scored a No. 1 hit on the US or European charts? Just one — and that was all the way back in 1963 with Sukiyaki by Sakamoto Kyu. Related content: Check out our profiles of Japan's top pop artists. So, what’s the issue with Japan’s music export? Several factors play a role. Record companies are content with the massive domestic sales made by their bands. The language barrier also presents a challenge, as few Japanese artists feel comfortable singing in English. Additionally, outside Asia, there is little market for most Japanese pop music, although other Asian countries tend to have a keen admiration for Japanese culture — music included. There have been a few bright s...