Late Night Gripe: When people say they can’t name current and relevant Asians in music. Alright, maybe you don’t know their name - but maybe you’re not paying attention. Maybe you think that to be current and relevant, you have to be in a group like Far East Movement. But I’m sure most of you have heard this song in a trailer or in a commercial. And I’m sure you didn’t know that this band, the Naked and Famous, has pretty damn good rotation on the radio and has sold out several shows. And I am sure you didn’t know that there are other bands that feature “Oh! An Asian!” (Best Coast, Little Dragon, etc) - and didn’t realize their popularity. Maybe these are just buzz bands, but you could also say that about the Far East Movements and Steve Aokis of the world.
NOTE: I am not saying that Asians aren’t being represented enough in the media (because truth be told, it’s still an uphill battle to get past the karate and nerd stereotypes). I am just sick of hearing people (mainly Asian Americans) saying that their favorite musician isn’t popular w/a larger audience because they are “Asian.” It might play a factor - but it certainly isn’t the reason.
