Tokyo Nights: A City Pop Vinyl Experience

The International Museum of Surgical Science, in partnership with the Japanese Culture Center, presents: Tokyo Nights: A City Pop Vinyl Experience

✨ Step into Tokyo’s neon glow with "Tokyo Nights: A City Pop Vinyl Experience" ✨ Join renowned DJ Van Paugam as he brings the golden age of Japan's City Pop to life on vinyl! 🎶

📍 Set in the stunning Hall of Immortals at the International Museum of Surgical Science, this unique DJ set transports you back to the vibrant sounds of 1980s Japan—where funk, jazz, and smooth R&B blend with Showa-era nostalgia. Dive into an unforgettable night of rare grooves and analog warmth that captures the essence of Tokyo’s nightlife and retro-futuristic energy.

🎟️ Don’t miss this chance to relive the Showa era's musical treasures. Whether you’re a City Pop fan or new to the genre, this immersive experience will leave you spellbound.

Doors Open at 6:30pm

Music begins at 7:00pm

Food and beverages will be served. Alcohol served to 21+, ID required.

City Pop DJ Set: Retro Japan on Vinyl

Experience the nostalgic sounds of the 1980s with a special City Pop Vinyl DJ set, curated by renowned DJ Van Paugam! City Pop, the iconic Japanese music genre, blends the upbeat rhythms of funk, jazz, and R&B with a touch of electronic smoothness, capturing the essence of Japan's vibrant nightlife and urban energy during the Showa era.

In this exclusive DJ set, participants will be taken on a musical journey through the rare grooves and melodic treasures of City Pop's golden age. Van Paugam will spin original vinyl records, offering a rich, analog sound that transports you back to Tokyo’s neon-filled streets and late-night drives along the coast. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or discovering it for the first time, this event provides an immersive experience in Japan’s retro-futuristic soundscape.

About Van Paugam:

Van Paugam is a DJ, curator, and cultural ambassador renowned for reviving the sounds of Japan’s City Pop era. With a deep passion for the nostalgic and vibrant music of the 1970s and 80s, he has brought this genre to new audiences through carefully curated DJ sets and online mixes. His expertise in City Pop, has made him a leading figure in the global resurgence of this unique style.

Van Paugam's DJ sets offer more than just music; they are a full sensory experience that captures the essence of Japan's Showa-era nightlife, transporting listeners to neon-lit streets and coastal drives. His performances have taken place in venues across the world, creating a bridge between Tokyo’s retro vibes and today’s music lovers. In addition to his DJ work, he shares insights and appreciation for Japanese culture by focusing on the history and cultural context behind the music he loves.

Location: International Museum of Surgical Science

Enjoy the music filling the Hall of Immortals, a white marble and limestone room with twelve larger-than-life statues that represent important figures in medicine. The Museum engages with different cultures and groups to share the many perspectives on health medicine culture and history.

This workshop is brought to you through collaboration with the Japanese Cultural Center.

This project is partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.

This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal assistance listing number, 21.027 awarded to the International Museum of Surgical Science by the US Treasury through the American Rescue Plan Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds in the amount of $125,000.00, representing 83% of total project funding.

This project is partially supported by a Chicago Arts Recovery Program grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.

The International Museum of SurgicalScience acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, United States