A roundup of artists from Ibaraki Prefecture: rock bands, singers, and rappers too!
If you hear “an artist from Ibaraki,” does anyone immediately come to mind?
You might be thinking, “No one!!” — and you wouldn’t be alone.
But among artists from Ibaraki Prefecture, there are surely some you already know.
While Ibaraki is often associated with a strong lineup of rock bands and other niche acts, the prefecture has produced a wide range of artists—from veteran household names to idols.
I hope this article helps you discover new music and artists to love.
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Artists from Ibaraki Prefecture: A roundup. Rock bands, singers, and rappers too! (51–60)
Angel’s paintIijima Mari
As the singer of the theme song for the anime Macross, Mari Iijima enjoyed pioneering popularity that foreshadowed today’s voice actor boom, and she is from Tsuchiura City.
She currently lives in Los Angeles, USA, but regularly works in Japan on music and anime-related projects.
SmileMai Mizuhashi
They may not be very well-known to the general public, but they are a famous figure in the world of anime songs.
Since they are from Ibaraki Prefecture, they have ties to the area and are active locally as well—for example, singing the ending theme for the regional information program “Discovery! Ibaraki Continent.”
Ballad of the RainYubara Masayuki
Masayuki Yuhara is a singer from Ushiku City who made his solo debut in 1970.
He had been active since 1964 as the vocalist of the band Swing West.
“Ame no Ballad” is his second solo single, released in 1971.
It became a massive hit, selling a total of 1.2 million copies.
ProceedAkiyama Kumi
Kumi Akiyama is a singer and voice actress from Ibaraki Prefecture who made her CD debut in 1996.
She performed songs such as PERSONA, the ending theme of the TV anime Magical Girl Pretty Sammy.
Proceed is Kumi Akiyama’s third single, released in 1996.
A roundup of artists from Ibaraki Prefecture: rock bands, singers, and rappers too! (61–70)
PartingSaijō Keiko
Keiko Saijo, originally from Shimotsuma City in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Japanese singer active in the genres of jazz and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs).
She began her singing career in 1958 and drew attention as the resident singer at the Akasaka club New Latin Quarter.
A major turning point came when she had the opportunity to sing before Nat King Cole and his wife, who recognized her talent.
She has released albums such as Kiss Me Keiko and Ballad, and has also performed commercial songs for France Bed and Kao Soap.
In 1985, she was invited to a party at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence, among many other activities.
Still active on the front lines today, Keiko Saijo’s voice is one that fans of jazz and kayōkyoku should definitely hear.
Were you stopped?Lunch Time Speax
Formed in 1993 in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, Lunch Time Speax is a three-member hip-hop unit known for hard-hitting, street-savvy lyrics and heavyweight beats.
Consisting of GOCCI, TAD’S A.C., and DJ DENKA, they were discovered in 1998 by DEV LARGE of BUDDHA BRAND and made their major-label debut with Sony Music Entertainment in 2001.
Through releases like the albums “BLUE PRINT MANEUVER” and “B:COMPOSE,” they cemented their place in Japan’s hip-hop scene, and in 2003 they launched their own label, PARANOEAR SOUND.
For over 30 years they have remained highly active, consistently broadcasting their music from the regions to the entire country.
Their stance transcends the boundaries of hip-hop and has impacted the broader music industry, making them a must-listen for music fans seeking uncompromising, hard-edged hip-hop.
MEMoRIES (feat. MoNa)Mr. Low-D
Hip-hop artist Mr.
Low-D, who began his career in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is known for his distinctive style heavily influenced by West Coast hip-hop and lowrider culture.
He started performing in 1998, worked through the groups 5X-LARGE and BWH, and made his solo debut in 2007 with the mini-album “Sanctuary.” In 2011, he released the album “800DAYZ,” drawing a total audience of over 6,000 across a 30-date national tour.
He has also made his mark in sports by creating entrance theme songs for pitcher Norihito Kaneba of the Yomiuri Giants and outfielder Hitoshi Tamura of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks.
Often dubbed the “King of Ringtone Downloads,” his music offers a perfect world for car enthusiasts and fans of lowrider culture.