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 (11–20)
Woman ~from “W’s Tragedy”Kawashima Keiji
Singer-songwriter Keiji Kawashima, known as the “Enchanting 3D Voice,” hails from Minabe in Hidaka District, Wakayama Prefecture.
Centered on rock while incorporating elements of jazz and soul, he excels at mature, richly layered pop music.
He made his major-label debut in 2016 with the mini-album “KEIJI.” His signature songs include “Shiroyohira,” which reached No.
1 on streaming platforms, and “Imabito,” a prayer for peace.
In 2024, he received the Wakayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, reflecting growing recognition in his hometown.
With distinctive activities such as performing concerts at World Heritage sites like Mount Koya, his vocals are highly recommended for anyone seeking authentic music that resonates with the heart.
Dive in Your FaithFear, and Loathing in Las Vegas
Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas is a band known for post-hardcore and electronicore.
Their recent songs primarily feature electronicore with heavy use of effects, incorporating elements of heavy metal in parts of the tracks.
They also have songs with the refreshing vibe of artcore, so if you enjoy high-energy tracks, you’ll probably like their music.
Many of the members of Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas are from Hyogo Prefecture.
That summer is becoming an addiction.kukkī! (Jenīhai)
Known as a genius comedian, Cookie! hails from Moriyama City in Shiga Prefecture.
The band in which he plays bass, Genie High, launched in 2017.
You may already know it’s a supergroup bringing together talents from different fields: Enon Kawatani, Ikkyu Nakajima, Takashi Niigaki, and Kazuhiro Kokubu.
Their 2018 mini-album “Genie High” topped the digital charts, proving their credentials.
Beyond comedy, he’s also demonstrated his versatility by successfully mounting an art exhibition that drew over 550,000 visitors.
In the band, his bass lines—praised for being “thick and singing”—are a major draw!
I did not exist.Kuramaru Riko
This is Riko Kuramaru, who was active as a member of the digital voice actress idol group 22/7.
While the group’s musical style centered on idol pop, she showcased a wide expressive range by performing enka-style songs in her character’s solo tracks.
They made their major debut in September 2017.
Affectionately known as “Mizuhan,” she was a mood-maker with her friendly Kansai dialect talk.
Many people may also know her under the name Mizuba Kuraoka.
I wonder why.Tetsu (Tetsu and Tomo)
Familiar in his red tracksuit, Tetsu of the duo Tetsu and Tomo hails from Otsu City in Shiga Prefecture.
He originally aspired to be a singer and actor, studied acting at university, and is known for his clear, resonant singing voice and sharp physical expression.
After forming the duo in 1998, they sparked a social phenomenon in 2003 with their song that sings about everyday questions, “Nandearo,” winning the Grand Prize at the New Words and Buzzwords Awards.
In the world of performing arts, their prowess is unquestioned, with accolades such as the Gold Prize at the Hanagata Performing Arts Awards in 2002.
Their stage, where music and comedy become one, is perfect for anyone looking for music the whole family can enjoy!
Hello HelloSebu Hiroko
Composer Hiroko Sebu, who grew up in Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture.
She is a musician with two sides: a composer of film and visual music, and an artist who performs under the name sébuhiroko.
Since her 2008 debut with the album “Ouchi wa Doko?” (Where Is Home?), she has scored numerous films and TV dramas.
Many may have heard her delicate melodies in the NHK morning drama “Beppin-san.” For her music for the film “Karaoke Iko!” (Let’s Go Karaoke!), she won the Best Music Award at the 48th Japan Academy Prize.
She has also arranged for and supported Mr.Children, demonstrating talent that transcends genres.
Her narrative, classically rooted music is perfect for those who love films and the beautiful sound of the piano.
Bands, artists, and singers from the Kansai region (21–30)
Pour the oil!Takemoto Yui (Sakurazaka46)
Yui Takemoto, who is active in Sakurazaka46, joined the group after the Sakamichi Joint Audition in 2018.
Within the group, she has taken part in songs such as “Start over!” and, since the group was renamed Sakurazaka46, she has steadily raised her profile, being selected for the senbatsu as many as seven times.
Beyond music, she has also expanded her activities by leveraging her bright personality—since 2023, she has been a regular on a radio program.
Her energetic performances and approachable demeanor are sure to win your heart.