Introducing 10 Japanese Male Artists Recommended by Japanese Fans.

What comes to mind when you think of Japanese culture?
When I think of Japan, I think of anime, manga, Haruki Murakami’s novels, and many other aspects of Japanese culture that are well known to many people overseas.
I was honored and surprised as a Japanese person to hear enthusiastic comments about Haruki Murakami and the anime “Naruto” from people I met during my first solo trip to Europe when I was 20 years old.

Therefore, in this article, I would like to introduce some Japanese artists recommended by Japanese people in the hope that you will learn more about the good things about Japan.
Please continue reading if you want to understand Japanese culture more deeply or if you want to learn more about Japanese artists as an opportunity to become friends with Japanese people.

History of Music in Japan

Music in Japan has a history of more than 1,000 years and has evolved with each era.
In the Heian period (794-1185), court music called “gagaku” was born, and in the Edo period (1603-1868), traditional music such as “hogaku” and “noh” for the masses developed.
However, after the Meiji period (1868-1912), Western music was introduced to Japan, and genres such as jazz, classical, and rock music were fused together to form Japan’s own pop music.

Since 1990, with the generalization of music equipment, the broadening of music production, and the spread of SNS and video distribution services, Japanese music has developed further and gained the support of many overseas fans.

Recommended 10 Japanese Male Artists

Here are 10 recommended Japanese male artists.

Mr.Children

Since their debut in 1992, Mr. Children has continued to lead the Japanese music scene.
With their deep lyrics and moving melodies, this four-piece band is loved by people of all ages.
The beautiful voice of vocalist Kazutoshi Sakurai and the outstanding performance of the band members have combined to produce many hit songs.
The band has been supported by many fans outside of Japan, including concerts in Taiwan in the past.

Their best known songs are “Tomorrow never knows” and “Endless Journey.

Many of Mr. Children’s songs have Japanese lyrics, but there are videos translated into English by fans, so it is possible to enjoy the lyrics of Mr. Children’s songs in English.
Please take a listen!

ONE OK ROCK

The rock band ONE OK ROCK boasts overwhelming popularity in Japan and abroad.
Vocalist Taka’s powerful voice and energetic live performances attract many fans.
Strongly influenced by Western music, the band’s global activities are characterized by lyrics that combine English and Japanese and collaborations with foreign artists.
Their representative songs “Wherever you are” and “The Beginning” are masterpieces filled with emotional melodies and powerful messages.

RADWIMPS

RADWIMPS captivate listeners with their unique and poetic lyrics and innovative sound.
They have gained many fans both in Japan and abroad, especially for their work on the soundtrack of the animated film “Kimi no na wa. has earned them many fans both in Japan and abroad. Vocalist Yojiro Noda’s voice and creative worldview richly express the various emotions and perspectives felt in everyday life.
Many of his songs, such as “Zenzenzense” and “Yume Tougo,” remain with his works in our hearts.

Kaze Fuji

A gifted singer-songwriter, Kaze Fujii has quickly gained attention for her unique musical style.
He is known for his heartfelt lyrics and warm melodies, and his piano skills are also top-notch.
In particular, songs such as “What’s the matter w” and “Kindness” combine his philosophical lyrics and rhythms to exquisite effect, deeply moving the listener. Although he is a young artist, he exudes an overwhelming presence.

Kenshi Yonezu

Artist Yonezu Genji is talented not only in music, but also in art and video production. His worldview constructed with his unique sensibility has won him a large following beyond the boundaries of J-POP. His songs such as “Lemon” and “Horse and Deer” are impressive for their memorable melodies and deep lyrics, and his unique approach to music is the secret to his popularity.

B’z

B’z, one of Japan’s most popular rock units, has long fascinated fans with vocalist Hiroshi Inaba’s powerful voice and guitarist Takahiro Matsumoto’s superb guitar technique.
They have released numerous classic songs such as “ultra soul” and “Love Phantom,” and their energetic sound and lyrics with a strong message are loved by people of all ages.

MAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION is a band with a unique visual style, wearing a wolf mask, and an energetic rock sound that has been talked about for many years. The band’s entertainment value is characterized by songs such as “Raise your flag” and “FLY AGAIN” that drive fans into a frenzy.

Vaundy

Vaundy is rapidly gaining popularity as a young artist, with a pop yet sophisticated musical style that appeals to the multi-talented artist who writes, composes, and arranges his own songs. With songs such as “Tokyo Flash” and “Fukakoryoku,” Vaundy’s unique sound and sympathetic lyrics are gaining popularity among young people.

Creepy Nuts

Creepy Nuts is a unit consisting of rappers R-Designation and DJ Matsunaga, who have brought a breath of fresh air to the hip-hop scene by highlighting their unique skills and sense of humor.
Their song “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” is especially well known worldwide.

The song served as the opening theme for the second season of the anime television series Mashle: Magic and Muscles

L’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc~en~Ciel is a Japanese rock band that has been active since the 1990s, attracting many fans with the unique voice of vocalist hyde and the sound that blends the individual personalities of each member. Their passionate and emotional songs, such as “Honey” and “Hana Funeral,” are timeless favorites. The band also actively performs overseas and is well known worldwide!

Conclusion

Japanese male artists range from those who have been active for many years to those who became famous when their songs were used as theme songs for anime.
Please listen to their music and deepen your understanding of Japanese music culture.

*This article is based on information available as of Nov 2024.