Star Kingdom! Artist and singer from Kanagawa Prefecture
When you hear “artists from Kanagawa,” do any come to mind right away?
Even when it’s about your favorite artists, it can be surprising to realize, “Oh, they’re from there!”
From venerable legends to idols and that hugely popular musician…
Finding artists from your own hometown gives you a little thrill, doesn’t it?
Kanagawa has produced many nationally beloved artists like Southern All Stars, Yuzu, and Ikimono-gakari,
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Star Kingdom! Artists and Singers from Kanagawa Prefecture (61–70)
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A duo consisting of MC Itsuka and DJ Gonchi, their sharp, captivating rap rides tracks that skillfully blend electronic and band sounds.
Both members once worked as office employees, and their biting, hard-hitting lyrics—often inspired by experiences and stories from that time—are a defining feature.
Along with relatable lyrics, their stylish, cool tracks are a big part of their appeal.
DJ Gonchi left the group in 2018, and it currently functions as MC Itsuka’s solo project.
Summer MissSakakibara Ikue
Ikue Sakakibara is from Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and the song was released in 1978 as her seventh single record.
Known as one of her signature songs, it took the top spot in the fourth week of August on Nippon Cultural Broadcasting’s “Kettei! Zen Nihon Kayō Senbatsu,” beating out Pink Lady, and earned her a first appearance at the 29th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The Day the Seagulls FlewWatanabe Machiko
Machiko Watanabe is from Yokosuka City in Kanagawa Prefecture, and this was released as her second single in 1978.
With this song, she won the Best New Artist Award at the 20th Japan Record Awards, and it continues to be sung today as one of her signature songs.
It’s also very popular at karaoke.
AREA AREAOZROSAURUS
A distinctive hip-hop group born in Yokohama, Kanagawa.
Formed in 1996, OZROSAURUS has captivated many listeners with a unique musical style that fuses band sounds and hip-hop.
They made their major debut in 1997 with the mini-album “Rhyme Darts,” and released the album “ROLLIN’045” in 2001.
Vividly depicting Yokohama’s street culture, the album became a big hit, selling 80,000 copies.
Their album “Rhyme & Blues,” selected as Best Hip-Hop Album 2006 by music magazines MUSIC MAGAZINE and BLAST, is also remembered as a comeback work by MC MACCHO after a traffic accident.
Having evolved into a six-piece band, they continue to pursue new musical possibilities with a one-of-a-kind sound that freely moves between hip-hop and rock.
Life is wonderfulRickie-G
A reggae singer who captivates with rich musicality and a warm, soulful voice.
Born in Kanagawa with British and German roots, Rickie-G has built a unique sound world that centers on reggae while blending soul, R&B, and acoustic elements.
He made his major-label debut in July 2007, and his second single, released that October, earned high praise from many listeners.
Since 2010, he has been actively working in the indie scene, and in 2021 he released a collaborative track with Nao Kodama.
In live performances, he celebrates nature and everyday joys with organic, warm instrumentation and an expansive vocal presence.
A skilled artist perfect for listeners seeking feel-good music and positive messages.
Two Red Starskinmokusei
Formed in Sagamihara, the pop-rock band Kinmokusei has long captivated many fans with their melodic sound.
Making their major debut in 2001, they brought a fresh breeze to the music scene with an urban, stylish sensibility and a wistful vocal style reminiscent of Showa-era kayōkyoku.
In 2002, they released a smash-hit single and even performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, marking a series of brilliant achievements.
With frontman Shungo Ito’s literary lyrics and a refined musicality that incorporates elements of city pop, their allure remains undimmed today.
Blending delicate sensitivity with urban sophistication, their songs are recommended for listeners who cherish bittersweet memories of love or who favor adult romance in music.
Haste and WasteKawaei Rina
Rina Kawaei, who made a brilliant transition from AKB48 idol to actress, entered the entertainment industry in 2010 as an 11th-generation member of the group.
She was active on variety shows and ranked 16th in the 6th AKB48 General Election in 2014, making her a popular member.
After graduating in 2015, she devoted herself to acting, and in 2021 her talent was recognized when she was selected as the heroine of an NHK morning drama from among 3,061 candidates.
In 2019, her film performance earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 61st Blue Ribbon Awards.
Her distinctive acting style, which conveys emotions with lightness and ease, has won widespread support from viewers.
Kawaei’s appeal lies in the blend of approachability and solid skill that she has cultivated in her growth from idol to actress.