KARUNA SHINSHO, CNN ANCHOR: In Japan, the late, great King of Rock 'n' Roll is getting a boost in popularity from a powerful fan. But as Rebecca MacKinnon reports, the jury is still out on who's got the most Japanese fans.</s>REBECCA MACKINNON, TOKYO BUREAU CHIEF (voice-over): You probably didn't know that Elvis has the same birthday as Japanese Prime Minister Koizumi. "I've loved rock music since I was a child," especially Elvis, Koizumi told a budget meeting last spring. Now, he's lent his name and face to an album of Elvis hits: "Junichiro Koizumi Presents My Favorite Elvis Songs" has been selling briskly since its release, in late August. "I chose songs I first heard as a teenager and songs I loved in my 30s and 40s," Koizumi told the media. "I think it will help you appreciate Elvis Presley." (on camera): Koizumi says listening to Elvis helps him deal with the stresses of his job. He's not alone. Japan has Elvis fan clubs; Elvis impersonators; and Elvis theme stores, like this one called Love Me Tender. (voice-over): Producer Katsumi Miata (ph) says the album would not have happened without a key Elvis fan and middleman, Koizumi's younger brother, Masaya, an active Elvis fan club member. Album cover pictures like this one were like his brainchild. Then there's the prime minister's personal commentary for each song. "This was the first Elvis song I ever heard," he writes. "It brings passion to my heart." The Japanese public reaction? Most people we spoke to saw nothing wrong with their leader having a little fun. "If this is what he likes, that's fine," says this woman, "As long as he does his job as prime minister." Her daughter wants the album because she thinks Koizumi is cool. As for Elvis, she hasn't decided yet. Rebecca MacKinnon, CNN, Tokyo.
Prime Minister's Selections for Elvis Presley Album Has Japanese Asking Who Is More Cool