Bands, artists, and singers from the Kansai region
How familiar are you with bands and artists from the Kansai region?
In this article, we’ll be introducing lots of bands and musicians from Kansai!
Some artists proudly announce their hometown during live shows, while others usually speak standard Japanese and don’t bring up where they’re from—but are actually from Kansai!
You might also find yourself searching for Kansai bands because you want to support local artists.
From household-name musicians to up-and-coming bands we’re excited to see break out, we’ve handpicked recommended artists for you to check out.
Be sure to take a look!
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Bands, artists, and singers from the Kansai region (121–130)
experienceHenmi Mari
Mari Henmi was born in Zushi, Kanagawa Prefecture, and spent many of her early years in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.
She is of mixed heritage, with a Spanish-American father and a Japanese mother.
She studied ballet in childhood and reportedly dreamed of becoming a ballerina while in elementary school.
She made her singing debut in 1960 and drew attention as a sexy kayō (pop) singer with her second single, “Keiken” (Experience).
scenario.Buzz cut sheep
Buzz cut sheep is a rock band whose members have performed together since high school, all hailing from Wakayama Prefecture.
They’re a formidable act, honed in Osaka’s live house scene.
In 2017 they released “Mei-Mei,” followed by “Memory’s Surface” in 2018.
Their appeal lies in an emotional sound that carries on the lineage of guitar rock.
Their live performances are highly regarded as well—among other achievements, they won the audition for MIKROCK, one of the largest free festivals in the Kansai region.
Vocalist Kosuke Sekiguchi’s crafted lyrics and the band’s dramatic song structures are must-hear.
Their music will especially resonate with listeners of a generation grappling with everyday conflicts and a sense of restlessness.
Dying countryDRAW INTO DISORDER
DRAW INTO DISORDER is a grunge rock band based in Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture.
Formed in 2006, they captivate listeners with a heavy, straight-from-the-’90s sound reminiscent of bands like NIRVANA.
Their music is defined by an extreme contrast between roaring guitars and silence, stirring the listener’s emotions.
In January 2024, they released the mini-album “SIGH” in conjunction with their local live venue, underscoring their deep commitment to the live scene.
They’ve also toured overseas, bringing a worldwide perspective to their sound—be sure to experience it for yourself.
MagnoliaHEAD SPEAKER
HEAD SPEAKER, a band that lit up the mid-2000s girls’ rock scene, is a four-piece punk rock group from Wakayama Prefecture formed when the members met at a SHAKALABBITS concert in their high school days.
In March 2009, they released the mini-album “KNOCK OUT!”.
They went on to draw attention with the ikoman-produced mini-album “∞COLORS” and the album “ARDENT MOMENT,” hailed as their finest work.
With vocalist KANA’s cute yet powerful voice and their exhilarating, high-velocity songs, their music is sure to lift your spirits just by listening.
Bands, artists, and singers from the Kansai region (131–140)
sharing an umbrellaKawahara Koki
Singer-songwriter Koki Kawahara, known for songs that blend J-pop and R&B centered around acoustic guitar and vocals, hails from Wakayama Prefecture.
He ramped up his solo career in 2016, and his representative works include the theme song for a TikTok short drama, “Ai mo Kawarazu,” and the single “Mistral,” released in November 2024.
In the 2023 ARTISTS LEAGUE, he was selected as one of the top four from over 2,000 acts.
Showcasing his multifaceted talent, he also produces music videos under the name “mitsutaka” as an illustrator.
His gentle voice and highly relatable lyrics are likely to resonate with those seeking comfort in their everyday lives.
As plannedchaacha
The enigmatic, mask-wearing rapper Chaochao hails from Wakayama Prefecture.
Honing his craft with peers at a local studio, he established a melodic style that makes skillful use of Auto-Tune.
His 2023 track “Night Dream” went viral on TikTok, catapulting him into the spotlight.
In February 2025, his first full-length album, “RED TAPE II,” was released on streaming platforms, earning high praise for the world he built alongside a team of producers including Lion melo.
With lyrics that lay bare pain and inner conflict set against a wistful sound, his music is sure to resonate with anyone seeking emotional hip-hop.
people of olden timesTanabe Daizō
Daizo Tanabe, a native of Tanabe City in Wakayama Prefecture, switched careers to become a singer after working for more than ten years as a local government employee.
He’s a vocalist with remarkable range, adept at everything from enka and kayōkyoku to pop and even narrative ballads, making his expressive versatility a key draw.
He debuted in 2007 with the single “Koyoi mo Omoi-zake ~Kyoto~,” and garnered attention with releases like “Inishie no Hito,” which entered the Oricon charts at No.
7.
In August 2025, he will be appointed “Special Publicity Chief” for Tanabe City, a testament to his deep love for his hometown.
He’s an irresistible artist for those who want to savor a moving, heartfelt voice and for anyone who resonates with community-rooted activities.