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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,

It has also produced many popular rock bands, including [Alexandros]! I hope this article inspires you to discover more music and artists you love.

Star Kingdom! Artists and singers from Kanagawa Prefecture (11–20)

Momoiro Clover Z

stay goldSasaki Ayaka, Takagi Reni, Tamai Shiori

Shiori Tamai is loved by fans and members as everyone’s little sister.

She’s also known for having a big appetite that you wouldn’t expect from her slender figure.

Ayaka Sasaki is the youngest in Momoclo, yet she’s sexy and cute, and her strong professionalism has earned her the nickname “Sasaki Pro.” Reni Takagi is the oldest in Momoclo and has versatile talents, able to handle anything from variety shows to more.

You can’t help but fall for the gap between her playful side and the way she sings.

Forever with youKayama Yūzō

The superstar of our grandparents’ generation, Yuzo Kayama, is nicknamed “Wakadaisho” (the Young Boss).

With a career spanning over 60 years, it’s amazing that he still has the energy to power through concerts where he performs many songs.

His continued spirited singing inspires many people.

Among his works, ‘Kimi to Itsumademo’ is his signature song—a ballad so enchanting you can’t help but be captivated.

He also performs rock numbers and handles songs with a wide range of moods.

ME:I

ClickKasahara Momona

ME:I (Mee Ai) ⊹ ‘Click’ Official MV
ClickKasahara Momona

In 2016, Momona Kasahara made a dazzling debut in the music world as the youngest member of ANGERME.

After her idol activities, she has emerged as the leader of ME:I.

In 2024, she won the Best New Artist Award at the 66th Japan Record Awards and even performed the ending theme for a Disney animation, expanding her range of activities.

With outstanding vocal and dance skills, and expressive power that skillfully controls facial expressions and tone of voice, she has the abilities worthy of a core member of the group.

As part of ME:I, she won “FAVORITE NEW ASIAN ARTIST” at the 2024 MAMA AWARDS, asserting her presence across Asia.

With distinctive performances and solid ability, Momona Kasahara is leading the new generation of the idol scene—must-see for J-POP fans.

I want to see you.yuzu

The two members of Yuzu are from Isogo Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and this was released in 2009 as their 27th single.

It was used as the theme song for the NHK drama “Ghost Friends,” and the song expresses Kitagawa’s feelings for his father, who passed away in 2008.

With this song, they made their first appearance in five years at the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.

Dream-colored fine weatherBENI(Arashiro Beni)

Singer-songwriter BENI was born in Okinawa, later moved back and forth between Okinawa and the United States, and spent her years from sixth grade in Yokosuka.

The charm of the artist behind numerous popular songs is, above all, her beautiful voice.

Her vocals, which feature clear, straight-reaching high notes while still conveying power, have captivated many listeners.

Also, when it comes to BENI, she not only performs her own original songs but also covers many classic hits—be sure to give those a listen as well!

BaNe BaNe feat. DOTAMA#KT-chan

KT-chan – BaNe BaNe feat. DOTAMA (Official Video)
BaNe BaNe feat. DOTAMA#KT-chan

#KT-chan, a rapper and artist from Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, is attracting attention.

Spurred by competing in the High School RAP Championship, she established her own style of “non-dissing rap.” Her lyrics, dubbed the “KT Theater” for their fantasy elements, have garnered strong support from Gen Z women.

In March 2023, she made a record-fast appearance in an MC battle at Ryogoku Kokugikan and won the Yahoo! Search Award in the Next Break category.

Drawing on her experience as a child actor, her expressive performances have been highly praised across the board.

Her EP “Oneder” features collaborations with DOTAMA and DJ CHARI.

Guided by the belief of “entertaining people” through rap, her continued delivery of positive messages suggests new possibilities for music.

Star Kingdom! Artists/Singers from Kanagawa Prefecture (ages 21–30)

WATWING

YO MA SUNSHINEHachimura Rintarō

WATWING 「YO MA SUNSHINE」Music Video
YO MA SUNSHINEHachimura Rintarō

Rintaro Hachimura, who took flight from Yokosuka City in Kanagawa Prefecture, is active as a member of the dance and vocal group WATWING.

He boasts strong academic credentials, having completed a major in English and American Literature at Keio University’s Faculty of Letters, and was discovered in 2019 through the “Star Boys Audition” hosted by Horipro.

Since the group’s digital debut single in January 2020, he has stood out as a core member, captivating audiences with vocals spanning a wide range from low to high notes and dynamic dancing that makes full use of his tall stature.

He made his acting debut in the TV drama “Homera Retai Boku no Mousou Gohan” (“I Want to Be Praised: My Delusional Meals”) and has since appeared in numerous works.

While juggling both music and acting, he has also blossomed as a multitalented performer by serving as a radio DJ on FM Yokohama.

His deep passion for music—evident in hobbies like krump dancing and composing—translates into a broad expressive range that captivates audiences.