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It’s not every day you stumble upon headlines about a virtual pop sensation, and Hatsune Miku certainly fits that bill. For those unfamiliar with this digital diva, here’s a quick rundown: Miku isn’t your typical celebrity. She’s not flesh and blood; instead, she’s a Vocaloid, a synthetic voice created for music production. But don’t let her virtual status fool you — Miku boasts a massive fanbase and even puts on concerts, complete with holographic performances.
As the mascot and most recognizable character for Vocaloid voice synthesizer software, Miku has garnered a dedicated following akin to real human performers. Dubbed a “bonafide virtual pop idol” by 404 Media, she regularly wows audiences with her holographic shows, reminiscent of the infamous 2Pac hologram at Coachella in 2012 or the avatar-based ABBA concerts that have been making waves in London.
#MIKUEXPO2024 heres how it looked if anyone was curious pic.twitter.com/olr0v51uOS
— C:CHISEI⭐️ (@balisonqs) April 7, 2024
Miku’s popularity extends far beyond the confines of the internet. She’s graced the stage of David Letterman’s show, embarked on world tours, and yes, she’s even been “married” (in a manner of speaking). Polygon’s editor-in-chief, Chris Plante, even created a video to delve into her cultural significance.
However, not all recent Miku-related events have been met with universal acclaim. Attendees of Miku Expo 2024 in Vancouver were in for a surprise when they found Miku’s performance confined to a large TV screen. Understandably, some fans took to social media to express their disappointment, especially considering the hefty price of admission. Tickets for Miku’s upcoming show in Phoenix, Arizona, range from $55 to $150, and fans were left questioning whether the experience justified the cost.
Social media was abuzz with reactions, with some lamenting the hefty price tag for what felt like a “tiny screen” experience. Others expressed frustration at the mismatch between expectations and reality, with one fan feeling like they had “spent all [their] savings” only to be met with a big TV screen.
YouTube personality Blake the Nerd echoed these sentiments, noting that the show was promoted as a hologram performance, leaving attendees feeling misled.
show this to whoever organised #MIKUEXPO2024 pic.twitter.com/hiWnmImEOD
— dazai r34 real (@iwantdazaiinme) April 6, 2024
Despite the disappointment, Miku Expo 2024 organizers seemed to take note of the feedback. At the San Jose, California, show, adjustments were made to improve the viewing experience, suggesting a willingness to address concerns and ensure that fans get the experience they paid for.
In a world where virtual idols reign supreme, Hatsune Miku continues to captivate audiences with her unique blend of technology and artistry. Whether it’s through holographic concerts or digital performances, one thing is clear: Miku’s influence transcends the boundaries of reality, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and entertainment.