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 (11–20)
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.
PerfumeEito
Known as a singer-songwriter from Yokohama, Eito has drawn attention for his J-pop foundation, gentle vocals, and down-to-earth lyrics.
Before starting his music career, he taught himself guitar while working part-time in his hometown, and after a period of groundwork, his 2020 release “Kousui” became a massive hit.
His appeal lies in a sound that incorporates diverse elements such as R&B, soul, and acoustic styles, and he has achieved remarkable milestones including performing at the 71st NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year and receiving a Special Award at the Japan Record Awards.
Eito’s music, characterized by simple melodies and sincere lyrics that resonate with the heart, is recommended for music fans seeking moments of emotion and joy in everyday life.
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.
migratory bird[Alexandros]
![migratory bird[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/O_DLtVuiqhI/sddefault.jpg)
Everyone except bassist Isobe is from Kanagawa Prefecture.
They’re a band that has released many buzzworthy songs such as “Wataridori” and “Senko.” Their tracks are often used in commercials, and their fast-paced sound really gets you pumped up.
Their steady coolness, easy-to-listen melodies, and lyrics with a strong message are all part of their appeal.
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!
The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT
The vocalist Yusuke Chiba is from Fujisawa City.
I happened to be listening to a radio show where a certain artist was DJing, and when they played this song—saying it was by a band that debuted from the same record label—I was honestly blown away.
This as a debut? It was way too cool.
I went to their shows many times, and I remember Abe on guitar shouting angrily at rowdy audience members from the stage when people got carried away.
Since Abe is gone now, a reunion is absolutely impossible, isn’t it…
Star Kingdom! Artists/Singers from Kanagawa Prefecture (ages 21–30)
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.