[koumori]

Originally Posted by Andrenekoi

I aways start with stuff similar to what those people like...

This. It really depends. I've found that going out of my way to "get them into" J-Pop never really works either, I have to sneakily play the songs.. and eventually they'll ask "Oh, I've heard this before. It's not bad. Who is it?"

If you're asking for good pop recommendations that are pretty likeable by the majority, I also agree with the 'big four' - Namie, Ayu, Koda, Utada - since their music fits pretty well in Western standards too, and won't give the listener too much to get used to. Maybe stay away from Ayu's squeakier songs at first though..

Also, I actually do agree with the YUI suggestion. Her music is pretty laid-back and she has some really catchy songs, so it's an easy listen even for those who aren't a fan of J-Pop.