Band, musician, and singer from Gunma Prefecture
When people think of Gunma Prefecture, many might picture hot springs and nature-rich sightseeing spots, but in fact, it has produced a large number of musicians.
From up-and-coming talents to seasoned veterans, skilled artists active across a wide range of genres have taken flight from Gunma.
In this article, we’ll introduce singers, artists, and bands from Gunma Prefecture, digging into the appeal of their distinctive musical styles and expressive power.
You might make some surprising discoveries—or find a new favorite!
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Band/Musician/Singer from Gunma Prefecture (1–10)
meltpopoq
popoq is a three-piece rock band formed by peers from Gunma Prefecture.
Since launching in October 2013, they have pursued an original sound that blends elements of dream pop and shoegaze on a rock foundation.
Their hallmarks are delicate high-tone vocals and arrangements aiming for the coexistence of beauty and intensity.
Gaining traction with tracks like “delight” and “canvas,” they released the album “00” in 2021.
Although they went on an indefinite hiatus as of September 2022, the sonic world they create—where floating ambience intertwines with roaring noise—grabs your heart the moment you hear it.
An unattainable dreamHideyoshi
Formed in Gunma Prefecture in 2004 mainly by classmates since elementary school, Hideyoshi is a rock band.
Their sound, rooted in alternative rock, and the powerful vocals of frontman Hideyoshi Kakizawa resonate deeply.
They debuted in November 2008 with the mini-album “Hesono,” which was selected for Tower Records’ ‘Tawarekomen.’ Their music also gained attention when a song was chosen as an insert track for the 2010 film “Solanin.” Even as they celebrate their 20th anniversary, they continue to operate with an indie spirit—definitely a band to watch.
Incidentally, fellow Gunma native Shimizu Iyori of back number once remarked, “We can’t beat these guys.”
Tokyo CallingKANON
KANON, a member of New School Leaders active on the global stage, is from Gunma Prefecture.
The group’s appeal lies in their musicality, which is rooted in J-pop while absorbing diverse genres such as rock and jazz.
Their expression is also supported by KANON’s supple performance, honed through studying classical dance from a young age.
They made their debut in 2017 with the single “Dokubana,” and with their signature song “Otona Blue,” they appeared for the first time on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2023.
In 2024, they performed on the stage of the world-renowned music festival Coachella, showing no signs of slowing down.
Bands, musicians, and singers from Gunma Prefecture (11–20)
Future Century eZ zooSakura,Yukaren
Linda the Third is a girls’ unit formed by Japanese Brazilians who grew up in Japan.
Members included Sakura from Oizumi Town and Yukaren from Ota City.
Under the banner of “B-POP” Brazilian pop, they brilliantly fused Brazilian music such as samba and bossa nova with Japanese idol songs.
They made their debut in April 2013 with the DVD single “Future Century eZ zoo.” Starting their activities on stages in their home base of Gunma, they also performed at major events like SUMMER SONIC 2013.
Their performances, combining cheerful rhythms with sparkling idol charm, truly shone with a one-of-a-kind brilliance!
Oath of the EyesImori Miyuki
Miyuki Imori is well known for her cheerful persona on variety shows, but her career began as an idol singer from Shimonita, Gunma Prefecture.
In 1984, she won the Grand Prix at the 9th HoriPro Talent Scout Caravan, which had about 120,000 participants—a true Cinderella story! She made her debut in April 1985 and helped color the idol pop scene of the 1980s.
One of her signature songs is Hitomi no Chikai, for which she received a commendation in the Newcomer Emerald Award.
For those who only know her as a TV personality, I hope you’ll experience the fresh charm of Miyuki Imori, the singer!
NO WAYmori, chomo
Dongurizu is a childhood-friend duo from Kiryu City, Gunma, whose family homes are just seconds apart on foot.
They effortlessly traverse a wide range of genres—from techno to hip-hop—and self-produce everything from artwork to audio.
They made their major debut in 2020; their release “Mind Tamashii” that same year was selected for Apple Music’s Top 100 Songs of the Year.
In 2021, they earned high praise from Enon Kawatani and Koichi Tsutaya on the TV program “Kanjam Kanzennen SHOW,” rapidly boosting their profile.
Highly recommended for those seeking exciting music that defies convention.
Fish _ FishHosoi Tokutarō
Tokutaro Hosoi is a guitarist and singer-songwriter from Isesaki, Gunma Prefecture.
Known for his diverse musicality that spans from jazz as a foundation to rock and soul, he moved to Tokyo after graduating from university and built his career through live performances.
As a solo artist, he released the EP “Sukāto ni Natte” in September 2021, and in 2023 he produced his first album, “Sakana _ Sakana.” He is also active as a member of SMTK led by Shun Ishiwaka, with his improvisational guitar playing being a particular draw.
Incidentally, he reportedly started singing at the recommendation of singer-songwriter Oozora Kimishima.