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How did comedian Daimaou Kosaka's 45-second humorous song accidentally become a global hit after Justin Bieber's post?
In 2016, a tremendously fun dance tune called Pen Pineapple Apple Pen (PPAP) became a global hit, despite the relatively lesser-known creator, Daimaou Kosaka.
As of May 2022, the official MV of the song on YouTube has amassed over 418 million views. PPAP was once dubbed the 'new Gangnam Style' with its immensely viral spread, bringing joy and dance crazes worldwide. Kosaka's single reached number 1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart. At its release, with a duration of 0:45, it became the shortest single to enter the global Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The spread of PPAP started with a share from pop superstar Justin Bieber on Twitter. The Canadian singer termed it as his 'new favorite Internet video,' leading to widespread listening and dancing. Despite its super short and fun rhythm, the humorous lyrics brought unexpected success to the Japanese artist.
Daimaou Kosaka (or Piko Taro), whose real name is Kazuhito Kosaka, was born in 1973. He is known as a comedian, television personality, and entertainer in the Land of the Rising Sun. Despite working diligently in the entertainment industry for over 20 years, he wasn't widely recognized until his 45-second song gained global fame.
Additionally, PPAP was Daimaou Kosaka's first music venture on YouTube, serving as an experimental leap. Faced with a waning comedy career and difficulty attracting live audiences, he once lamented, 'Not many people came to watch my live shows anymore.'
Thanks to the unexpected success of this hit, the comedian has become more active and dedicated efforts to promote PPAP. Kosaka received invitations to tour worldwide. Just one year after becoming an internet sensation, in August 2017, he married model Hitomi Yasueda, who is 15 years his junior. The couple now has 2 children.
Six years after gracing screens worldwide, Daimaou Kosaka still remains steadfast in his trademark yellow ensemble, which has become his brand. He continues to perform his sole hit, albeit with less attention. Instead of pursuing a path in lighthearted music and entertainment, Daimaou Kosaka has chosen to focus on his primary role as a stage comedian. He remains a welcomed figure on Japanese TV comedy and entertainment programs.
Source: Yahoo Japan, Instagram NV
