Japan is known for its manga, anime, beautiful attractions, mouth-watering dishes like ramen, sushi, and many more. But when it comes to music, some artists don’t get the appreciation they deserve. Don’t worry we’re here to throw some light on ten underrated Japanese artists that’ll make you fall in love with their songs.
10. Maki Yano
Maki Yano is a J-pop singer who debuted in 1999. She is a Japanese acoustic pop artist and a former rock singer. Her style varies from rock, jazz, pop, and folk. Some of her songs like: ‘Yakyoku,’ ‘Bokuna Sora’ and ‘Ookina Tsubasa,’ need to be on your Spotify playlist!
9. Thee Michelle Gun Elephant
Thee Michelle Gun Elephant, abbreviated as TMGE, was a Japanese garage rock band. It was formed in 1991 consisting of 4 members. The genres also include Blues-rock and Punk Blues. Their song titles are mainly in English. The lyrics are, however almost entirely in Japanese with a few English phrases.
8. Da-Ice (Pronounced As ‘Dice’)
Da-Ice is another Japanese boy band, consisting of 5 members. Da-Ice is a vocal and dance group that managed to top the Oricon daily charts and occupy 2nd place on its weekly charts. Their genres include J-pop, EDM, Eurodance, and Dubstep. If you’re in the mood to groove, Da-Ice is your destination.
7. Exile
Exile is a Japanese boy band consisting of 19 members! The band has sold over 24 million records in Japan alone. The band is known for its catchy songs and diversity of genres like j-pop, R&B, Dance and House. However, as of right now, there are currently 14 active members in the group.
6. Sora Tob Sakuna
Sora tob sakuna is a Japanese idol girl group formed in 2014. Their debut single, ‘Yozora o Zenbu’ released on October 27, 2015. The group specializes in math rock tunes composed by Yoshimasa Terui. The group’s name translates to ‘fish flying in the sky,’ and given the nickname ‘Osakana,’ meaning ‘fish’ in Japanese.
5. Emiri Konou
Emiri Konou is a soloist idol from Japan. Her music is influenced by the 80’s New Wave, Indie Rock and, Techno music. She is a self-produced musician, composer, and songwriter. Whenever you feel the urge to listen to something that’ll soothe your ears, you know who.
4. The Winking Owl
The Winking Owl is a pop/alternative rock band from Japan. They were signed to Warner Music Japan. Despite the incredibly talented musicians and well-written lyrics, the band is quite underrated. The band was formed in 2010. Some of their songs include: ‘Bloom,’ ‘Let Go’ and ‘Open up my Heart.’
3. Dygl
If you’re a faithful indie rock listener, there’s no way you haven’t heard of Dygl. They are an indie rock band from Tokyo, Japan. The band consists of four talented members. Their songs are exceptionally well written and quite popular in Japan. The band also released their first EP in the United States. You cannot miss them!
2. Kikagaku Moyo
Kikagaku Moyo is a Japanese psychedelic band. The band’s name translates to ‘Geometric Patterns’ in English. If you don’t know them, you’re missing out! Their style includes psychedelic rock along with folk elements. Some of their well-written songs include: ‘Smoke and Mirrors,’ ‘White Moon,’ and ‘Dripping Sun.’
1. Yeye
YeYe is a Japanese Singer who started her solo career in 2010. She is a songwriter and can play numerous musical instruments. Her popular tracks include: ‘You are singing always,’ ‘Namida’ and ‘Buddy Holly.’ YeYe is one of Japan’s most imaginative singers and will sweep you off your feet with her music.
