That is one very difficult kanji character to read but I suppose just by looking at the last two digits, you can probably figure out that this is another one of AKB48 franchise in the same category as 乃木坂46 (Nogizaka 46).
It’s been some time since 欅坂46—or Keyakizaka 46—debuted, but I didn’t see any purpose in writing about them then even though I find their debut single Silent Majority a pretty cool song. Like their predecessor Nogizaka, Keyakizaka also debuted with a non-diabetic inducing bubblegum pop song. And like Nogizaka, they also seem to fair better in the looks department unlike their 48 counterpart who simply rely on the cheerleader effect.
The reason I decided to write this was because I had an epiphany while watching their Silent Majority PV on YouTube earlier today. Needless to say, Keyakizaka sells well and it’s not hard to imagine that the other 46 and 48 fans could be responsible for their CD sales. On top of that, these new group of singers’ family and friends would buy their CDs as well.
It dawned on me that the 46 and 48 franchise works a little like multi-level marketing. Not the remuneration part, but the strategy to sell part. And that seems to be to get as many members as possible to join the franchise and then sell to their family and friends (and also the people of their region). And as Akimoto Yasushi creates more new groups, the existing fan base will remain and new fans (family, friends and hometown people of the new members) will buy into it growing the franchise.
Amazing strategy.
And since we’re at it, might as well share with you the song I have to admit I pretty much enjoy.
