Boy George likes Japanese culture

Press, 21 June 1984, Page 13

Boy George likes Japanese culture

NZPA-AP Tokyo Boy George, the flamboyant leader of the British pop band, Culture Club, says that America has no real culture. The 23-year-old entertainer, whose decorated face and elaborate hairstyle have catapulted him to pop music fame in Japan, said that while he had no interest in the United States, he was greatly attracted to Japan. Japan’s “great culture” had remained strong in spite of its Westernisation, Boy George told a news conference at a Tokyo hotel. He claimed a strong in-

terest in the traditions of Japan, especially in its Kabuki theater, where all women’s roles are played by costumed men. A Japanese sports newspaper “Nikkan Sports,” has referred to the singer as London’s Tamasaburo,” a reference to a popular young Kabuki star who specialises in women’s roles. Denying show business gimmickry, Boy George said his style was a return to "where we came from,” adding that "a lot of history is based on eccentricity.” The group’s third album, “Waking Up With the House on Fire,” is scheduled to be released next October.