Artists from Ishikawa Prefecture (bands, idols, singer-songwriters, musicians)
When you hear “an artist from Ishikawa Prefecture,” what kind of artist comes to mind?
It’s always a little exciting when you discover that a band or singer-songwriter you love is from your hometown, isn’t it?
Ishikawa is famous for its scenic spots and seafood, and through this research I also felt there are many artists who shine behind the scenes, playing supportive roles like unsung heroes.
I’d be happy if this helps you discover the charms of Ishikawa as well as new favorite music and artists you’ll love.
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Artists from Ishikawa Prefecture <Bands・Idols・Singer-Songwriters・Musicians> (11–20)
Love is EverywhereMASAKI（moumoon）
moumoon is a male-female duo best known for Sunshine Girl, which was featured in the commercial song for Shiseido’s ANESSA.
MASAKI, the composer of the group, is from Ishikawa Prefecture and often introduces himself as being more on the “sound” side.
Since 2019, he has taken on a supporting role to focus on songwriting.
moumoon’s refined sound stems from MASAKI’s relentless curiosity—ranging from the softly textured tones that reflect the group’s name concept to cool, “hard-edged” tracks—delivering versatile, stylish, and delightful music.
In 2021, he married his partner and the group’s vocalist, YUKA.
His fluffy hairstyle and mustache could be considered his charming features.
While MASAKI has a sharp look and a sophisticated air, his playful side that comes out during talks is also very appealing.
Woman in CrimsonShimazu Etsuko
From the land of Ishikawa, delivering melodies that resonate in the hearts of the Japanese people is the shining jewel of the enka world, Etsuko Shimazu.
Her voice, which evokes beautiful scenery, has radiated the same timeless charm since her 1988 debut single “Shinobi Yado.” Captivating listeners, this work imparts a pristine sense of emotion, like the clear streams of Ishikawa.
While garnering numerous honors—including the Wired Music Award at the Japan Cable Awards for “Kami no Fune” in 1991—she continues to warmly connect with listeners’ hearts.
Her musicality will always bring a fresh sense of wonder whenever you listen.
lapsTatamino Ayaka (Homecomings)
Ayaka Tateno is the central figure of Homecomings, a band known for its retro, pleasantly resonant guitar pop.
Formed in Kyoto in 2012, Tateno mainly handles the lush vocals and songwriting that shape the band’s appeal.
Before moving to Kyoto for university, she spent much of her life in Ishikawa Prefecture, where she honed her artistic sensibilities during her student years through exposure to film and literature.
She captivated many listeners with early standout tracks like “HURTS” and “PAPER TOWN,” the latter a song about Kyoto.
Her music reflects her gentle individuality as well as the influence of Ishikawa’s rich nature and culture.
Anemone flaccida (nirinsō; literally “two-flowered anemone”)kawanaka miyuki
Speaking of Miyuki Kawanaka, her voice, rich with deep emotion, never fails to captivate countless listeners.
She began her singing career in 1973 under the name Harumi Kasuga, changed her stage name to Miyuki Kawanaka in 1977, and had a major breakthrough in 1980 with Futari-zake, a classic of popular song.
The track became a million-seller and continues to be loved by many to this day.
With an impressive track record—including the Best Vocal Performance at the Japan Record Awards in 1994—her musicality has gained even greater depth, harmonizing with the rich culture born of Ishikawa Prefecture’s natural and social climate.
Miyuki Kawanaka’s singing voice is a source of pride for Ishikawa, and her presence will continue to shine upon the world of popular music without fading.
1.5 (mini album)CHEETA (myuuRy, Nakanomori BAND, Symmetriez)
CHEETA, a native of Ishikawa Prefecture, was active as the drummer for the girls’ band Nakanomori BAND.
The band was formed in 2004 and made its major debut in 2005 with the single “Raspberry Pie.” In the same year Nakanomori BAND was formed, she also joined the pop-rock band myuuRy.
She left myuuRy in 2007, and Nakanomori BAND disbanded in 2008.
From 2010, she began pursuing a full-fledged solo career, performing with her own band, Symmetriez.
In addition to drumming, she also handles vocals and songwriting/composition.
Planet of the BearsKatō Shin’ichi (Fujifaburikku)
Shinichi Kato, the bassist of Fujifabric, is from Kanazawa City in Ishikawa Prefecture.
He started playing bass in junior high school and, after graduating from high school, joined Tsuyoshi Tsuru’s band, Floater.
In 2002, when Fujifabric’s then-bassist left the band, Kato joined as a supporting member.
The following year, he became an official member, and in February 2004 they released their pre-debut album Alamode, followed by their major-label debut with the single Sakura no Kisetsu in April.
He also writes lyrics and composes music, not only for Fujifabric but has also provided songs for groups and artists such as Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku and Megumi Nakajima.
Artists from Ishikawa Prefecture <bands, idols, singer-songwriters, musicians> (ages 21–30)
sparklerYamamoto Sayaka (Dream, E-girls)
Sayaka Yamamoto, who was active as a member of the dance and vocal groups E-girls and Dream.
Known for her clear, straight-ahead singing voice, she joined dream in 2002 and, under the name Sayaka Yamamoto, released the album “Sekishun” in 2005, beginning her solo career.
She also started performing as a member of E-girls in 2011, but left the group the following year.
After that, she worked as an actress under her real name, appearing in numerous commercials as well as in the musical Hakuoki and the TV drama Yamikin Ushijima-kun Season 3.