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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 (21–30)

BEYOOOOONDS

Hero: Smile, Senior Chopin!Eguchi Saya

BEYOOOOONDS “Hero ~Smile! Chopin-senpai~” Promotion Edit
Hero: Smile, Senior Chopin!Eguchi Saya

Saya Eguchi, an artist from Hyogo Prefecture, rose to prominence after going through the Hello! Project trainee program and made her debut in 2018 as a member of BEYOOOOONDS.

Transcending the traditional boundaries of idol groups, the group’s appeal lies in its distinctive performances that, while rooted in pop, incorporate a diverse musicality spanning rock and electronica along with theatrical elements.

In 2019, they won the Best New Artist Award at the 61st Japan Record Awards, cementing their presence in the music scene.

Her bright, forward-looking personality and unique turns of phrase have earned strong support from fans, making her popular on social media and at fan events.

In addition to her dancing and vocal skills, Eguchi excels at MC talk, and her expressive performances are perfect for anyone looking to feel a fresh breeze in idol music.

space pilot

Raze MeChinozo、Yoru

Space Pilot “Raze Me” Official Music Video
Raze MeChinozo、Yoru

Chinozo and Yoru, two standout artists from the Kansai music scene, have launched a new unit called “Uchū Pilot” (Space Pilot).

Chinozo rose to popularity as a Vocaloid producer, captivating listeners with a unique sound that fuses electropop and city pop.

Meanwhile, Yoru is active as a vocalist known for delicate melodies and poetic expression.

Both made their debuts between 2019 and 2020, earning high ratings on streaming platforms and praise from music media.

Their experimental sound-making, weaving together acoustic and electronic elements, hints at new possibilities in music.

They are artists that music fans seeking a fresh breeze in pop music should definitely check out.

morning sunaimyon

Aimyon – Morning Sun [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
morning sunaimyon

Aimyon is a singer-songwriter from Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture.

Her straightforward vocals have struck a chord with younger generations, and her popularity has grown.

With “Marigold,” she rose to national stardom, and her melodies, which evoke a sense of nostalgia, are loved by a wide range of people—not just the youth, but listeners of all ages.

At times, her edgy lyrics are part of the appeal as well!

Doki itnaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – Doki it [Official Music Video]
Doki itnaniwa danshi

Formed in 2018 from members of Kansai Johnny’s Jr., they made their CD debut in November 2021.

With bright, catchy melodies and dynamic dance performances as their strengths, they’ve been drawing attention on the J-pop scene.

In 2021, they won the HOPE category at the anan AWARD, and in 2022 they garnered multiple accolades including at the 110th Television Drama Academy Awards.

Beyond music, they are active on variety shows, in dramas, and in films.

Leveraging the fact that all members are from the Kansai region, their YouTube channel showcases a distinctly Kansai-style warmth and humor.

They’re the perfect group for fans seeking energetic live performances and the unique charm of Kansai.

word sellerāban gyarudo

Urbangarde – Kotobauri (Word Seller)
word sellerāban gyarudo

Debuting in 2011, URBANGARDE features male–female twin vocals.

Even their band name hints at their distinctive worldview.

They describe their music as “trauma technopop,” and their lyrics incorporate many negative words.

Matching their 80s-inspired sound, their live shows blend elements like poetry readings and VJ visuals into unique performances that have been attracting attention.

Summer is ending soon.Hamabata Youhei

Yohei Hamabata “Summer Is Almost Over” Music Video (Full ver.)
Summer is ending soon.Hamabata Youhei

Yohei Hamahata is a singer-songwriter who debuted in 2019.

He made his debut from Office Augusta, home to artists like Masayoshi Yamazaki, Chitose Hajime, and Sukima Switch.

Originally, he balanced a job while making music, but in 2013 he resigned to focus entirely on his musical career, eventually making his major-label debut.

He is known for his clear enunciation and beautiful, slightly high-pitched voice.

For his debut songs, Yohito Teraoka—the bassist of JUN SKY WALKER(S)—handled the composition, and the nostalgic, moving numbers are wonderfully pleasing.

I did not exist.Kuramaru Riko

22/7 1st single 'I Wasn't There' music video
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.