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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!

Bands, Artists, and Singers from the Kansai Region (201–210)

The Way of ManMori Kohei

Shinsengumi Lien 'Otoko-michi' (The Way of Men)
The Way of ManMori Kohei

Shinsengumi Lien is an idol music group that originated from the Nippon TV variety show “Jinsei ga Kawaru 1-punkan no Fukaii Hanashi.” The first leader, Kohei Mori, was born in Shiga Prefecture and raised in Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture.

Their debut single, “Otoko-michi,” reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart.

The Summer I Spent With Youtachibana yurika

NEO from Idoling!!! / Summer I Spent With You MV Dance Version
The Summer I Spent With Youtachibana yurika

Yurika Tachibana, who belonged to NEO from Idoling!!!, is from Yokaichi City in Shiga Prefecture.

“Kimi to Ita Natsu” was released in 2014 as their third single overall.

It was the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Sakigake! Ongaku Banzuke ~Eight~” in September 2014.

make upgekijou metaricce

With the concept of “gap moe,” they drew attention for death growls and intense performances that you wouldn’t expect from their idol-like appearance.

They made their major debut in just under two years after forming, but disbanded in a short span of about a year after debut.

Fuki and the chickMaiko

Maiko is a singer-songwriter from Shiga Prefecture.

In 2013, her song “Fuki to Hiyo” was featured on NHK’s Minna no Uta and aired from April to May.

Maiko believes that the origin of her music lies in Shiga Prefecture, and many of her works are themed around nature.

Future Saint Fighter Ω? Saint Evolution?Anazawa Jun

Nagareda Project / Saint Seiya Omega ~Saint Evolution~
Future Saint Fighter Ω? Saint Evolution?Anazawa Jun

Atsushi Anazawa, a member of the four-piece band Nagareda Project, is from Hikone City in Shiga Prefecture.

Nagareda Project’s debut single, “Mirai Saint Seiya Ω ~Saint Evolution~,” was selected as the opening theme for the New Cloth arc of the TV anime Saint Seiya Ω.

A world without youto shiki

Toshiki “A World Without You” Official Music Video
A world without youto shiki

Toshiki is a singer-songwriter from Hyogo Prefecture who is active on social media and through street performances.

While rooted in J-pop, he stands out with a distinctive voice and vocal style, making him an artist to watch.

A song he posted on social media in 2022 resonated especially with teens, reaching No.

1 on Spotify’s Viral Chart and No.

2 on LINE MUSIC’s real-time ranking.

It also sparked a huge response on social platforms, with over 4,000 related videos created.

On June 22, 2024, he held his solo concert “YOAKE,” captivating many fans.

With lyrics that vividly portray everyday emotions and experiences and melodies that strike a chord, he’s a recommended artist for anyone who wants to feel the subtleties of love and youth.

empty; hollow; desertedKaneki Kazuya

Kazuya Kaneki is a singer-songwriter from Shiga Prefecture.

Back when he was the band’s vocalist and guitarist, he made it to the finals of Senkou Riot in 2011.

The appeal of his songs lies in their relatable lyrics and irresistibly catchy melodies.

His work spans everything from band-style arrangements to tracks that feature programmed beats, and each showcases those strengths.

His singing voice is also highly appealing, effortlessly handling everything from gentle ballads to up-tempo rock numbers.