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 (271–280)
non
Non, formerly known as Rena Nōnen, who starred in the drama “Amachan” and became a hugely popular actress, is from Kamikawa Town in Kanzaki District, Hyogo Prefecture.
The song in the video is included on her first album, “Super Heroes,” released in 2018.
Since music was originally her hobby, her sense really shines through.
The Promised Placefukui mai
Yakusoku no Basho (The Promised Place) is the theme song of the game Final Fantasy XIII-2.
Released in 2011, it is her fifth single.
Mai Fukui’s gentle yet beautiful vocals are captivating.
She is also from Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City.
Troubleminobe arisa
Arisa Minobe is a female singer-songwriter whose catchy, pop-driven sound has won her a loyal following.
Influenced by Western music in junior high, she began writing songs and now performs mainly in the Kansai area.
She’s very active live, so some of you may have seen her at events.
She also works as a radio DJ on FM Hashimoto in Wakayama Prefecture.
When you’re feeling down or wrestling with something, her voice just might be what saves you.
Dancing All Nightmonta yoshinori
Yoshinori Monta was born in Hiroshima Prefecture, but he grew up in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture.
He moved to Tokyo and experienced a setback once, but then formed Monta & Brothers and found success.
It seems he’s still energetically performing live even now.
His hot, husky voice is distinctive, and when you listen to “Dancing All Night,” you feel a slow burn rising from deep within your body! He’s so cool!
Tanabatayanase nana
Nana Yanase is a singer-songwriter from Nara Prefecture who made her debut in 2004.
This song was released in 2007 and was used as the ending theme for the Nintendo DS game Tokyo Majin Gakuen: Kenpuu-chou.
Known for her gentle vocals, she has created many songs that draw on her experience of overcoming cervical cancer at age 30 and her perspective as a Buddhist monk who was born and raised in a temple.
Not enough abnormality.Arukara
Alcala was formed in Kobe in 2002.
They call themselves “the eccentric masters of the rock scene,” with guitar sounds flying freely all over the place—truly danceable! Their musical style might be somewhat close to bands like KEYTALK and THE ORAL CIGARETTES.
The vocalist, Inamura, shows a multifaceted side by also playing the violin.
They’ve been based in Tokyo since 2010, but since 2013 they’ve been energizing their hometown of Kobe by hosting the live circuit event “Neko Fes.” If you like danceable rock, be sure to check them out!
An Ruisu
Ann Lewis, a songstress born in Kobe and one of Japan’s most iconic singers.
She debuted in 1971 with “Shiroi Shūmatsu” (White Weekend), and in 1974 scored a massive hit with “Good Bye My Love.” She went on to release numerous hits, including “La Saison” and “Roppongi Shinju.” With an American father and a Japanese mother, she is praised for breaking down the barriers between rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese pop of the era).
She calls her own style “Kayo-Rock,” characterized by pop, melodious vocals and hard-edged guitar sounds.
In 2005, she released the self-cover album “REBIRTH,” marking a return to music activities.
Highly recommended for those who want to be captivated by her powerful voice and singular artistic world.