1. Ayumi Hamasaki
Ayumi Hamasaki, the legendary Japanese singer, tops the list. Ayumi Hamasaki is a global icon whose powerful voice resonated in Japanese pop culture. The prolific singer puts solid emotions into her voice along with artistic direction, which eventually gained her widespread popularity overseas. Unfortunately, in 2000, she got an ear infection that worsened her hearing ability. Nevertheless, she is still the reigning Empress of J-pop.
2. Namie Amuro
Who doesn’t know the ‘Queen of J-pop’, Namie Amuro? The former Japanese artist is an inspiration for many. Her experimentation across music styles and challenging persona has broken the youthful idol stereotype in the Japanese music world, and she became a trendsetter and a complete all-rounder to follow her diligence and professionalism led to a career spanning a decade. She retired in 2018.
3. Utada Hikaru
One cannot deny the contribution of Hikaru’s; music to J-pop. Considered one of the most successful singers in Japan, her debut record, First Love, is the all-time bestselling album in Japan. Her western RnB sound has given a different dimension to J-pop. Her soft and melodious voice melts the heart of the listeners. This versatile singer has gifted timeless hit songs, making you a fan of her songs in the first hearing. There is no doubt about that.
4. Koda Kumi
Talent runs in the family. A perfect example of this is the dynamic superstar Koda Kumi. Coming from a family of musicians, Kumi was surrounded by music from her childhood. Initially experiencing a rough start, Kumi rose to popularity with her single, Real Emotion/1000 Kotoba, a song used to promote the video game ‘Final Fantasy X-2’. Her versatile singing from trying different genres of R`n`B; hip-hop, pop, and even pop-rock made her a powerful performer. Because of her sexy and bold image, she has become a fashion icon for young women.
5. Milet
In 2018, a new talent got introduced to the Japanese music scene, and that is none other than Milet. How can one not fall for her vocals? Her husky, assertive vocals are a great addition to the country’s; music industry. She has enjoyed success from the very beginning of her career. Her unique voice leaves an impression on the listeners. Milet is undoubtedly one of the most famous artists of this generation.
6. Yui Yoshioka
Yui Yoshioka, popularly known as Yui, is a Japanese singer-songwriter, born on March 26, 1987. Her tremendous aura and heavenly voice capture the heart of the listeners. She communicates and connects with the listeners through her songs. She gained international recognition from her songs, ‘Rolling Star’ and ‘Again.’ Her down-to-earth personality and sincere singing make you a hardcore fan of hers.
7. Eir Aoi
Eir Aoi is a well-known female singer based in Japan. If you are a fan of heavy metal music, Eir Aoi’s songs are a great pick. Her high-spirited charm and passion for music carved her way to becoming one of the country’s affluent J-pop artists. Her natural and powerful high-pitched singing voice gave the Japanese music scene many iconic songs, especially for many anime series.
8. Aimer
Aimer is a talented Japanese pop singer and lyricist. How can one not love Aimer? In French, Aimer means to love, and her voice sounds full of love. At the age of 15, due to constant voice strain, Aimer had to undergo silence therapy for treatment. After recovery, she acquired her melodious husky voice. The melancholy, heart-piercing songs of Aimer portray so many emotions, and her unique voice gives more depth to it.
9. Lisa
It would be wrong not to include the ‘Queen of Anime Themes’; LiSA on our list. Risa Oribe, popularly known by her stage name LiSA is a Japanese singer and lyricist. Her amazing vocals in the television anime series Angel Beats! Embarked her on her successful music career.If you don’t know, check out her songs. She is an artist you don’t want to leave out.
10. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu
The classic example of the Japanese cutesy or kawaii concept is the singer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. Pamyu is a global phenomenon and has become a cultural ambassador of Japan. She is considered a fashion icon in Asia and an inspiration to many. Her debut single ‘Pon Pon Pon’ became a cultural reset, and the video went viral on YouTube, making her a sensation.
