RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

Bands, artists, and singers from the Kanto region

This is a playlist of artists from the Kanto region.

I don’t think artists from the Greater Tokyo area are usually conscious of their birthplace, but there are cases where you assume a band is from Kansai, only to find out the members are actually from Kanto and came to Kansai for university.

There were also some surprising cases where people turned out to be from unexpected places.

Bands, artists, and singers from the Kanto region (41–50)

Life is wonderfulRickie-G

A reggae singer who captivates with rich musicality and a warm, soulful voice.

Born in Kanagawa with British and German roots, Rickie-G has built a unique sound world that centers on reggae while blending soul, R&B, and acoustic elements.

He made his major-label debut in July 2007, and his second single, released that October, earned high praise from many listeners.

Since 2010, he has been actively working in the indie scene, and in 2021 he released a collaborative track with Nao Kodama.

In live performances, he celebrates nature and everyday joys with organic, warm instrumentation and an expansive vocal presence.

A skilled artist perfect for listeners seeking feel-good music and positive messages.

Two Red Starskinmokusei

Osmanthus fragrans 'Two Red Stars' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
Two Red Starskinmokusei

Formed in Sagamihara, the pop-rock band Kinmokusei has long captivated many fans with their melodic sound.

Making their major debut in 2001, they brought a fresh breeze to the music scene with an urban, stylish sensibility and a wistful vocal style reminiscent of Showa-era kayōkyoku.

In 2002, they released a smash-hit single and even performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, marking a series of brilliant achievements.

With frontman Shungo Ito’s literary lyrics and a refined musicality that incorporates elements of city pop, their allure remains undimmed today.

Blending delicate sensitivity with urban sophistication, their songs are recommended for listeners who cherish bittersweet memories of love or who favor adult romance in music.

Flash backTegoshi Yūya

Yuya Tegoshi / Flash back [ Music Video ]
Flash backTegoshi Yūya

Yuya Tegoshi had drawn attention since his Johnny & Associates days for his exceptional vocal ability.

He debuted in 2003 as a member of NEWS and has captivated many fans with his strong personality and performance skills.

In June 2020, he went independent and launched a full-fledged solo career, opening up new horizons as an artist.

While rooted in J-POP, he showcases his talent across a wide range of genres, including rock and ballads.

Since his solo debut in July 2021, he has actively taken on nationwide tours and festival appearances, and has continued to pursue musical challenges such as writing and composing his own songs.

Starting in 2012, he also served as the main host for the FIFA Club World Cup for seven years, demonstrating his multifaceted talent.

With an open, free-spirited musicality influenced by his Yokohama, Kanagawa roots and solid skill, he continues to win over new audiences.

I like you. That’s what it means.Itano Tomomi

"Like. — The Meaning (MUSIC VIDEO) / Tomomi Itano"
I like you. That's what it means.Itano Tomomi

Tomomi Itano has emerged as a standout, powerhouse artist representing Kanagawa Prefecture.

In 2005, at age 14, she became an original member of AKB48 and was active on Team A.

She blossomed across a wide range of genres, from J-pop to dance music to ballads.

Her 2011 solo debut single topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, showcasing her undeniable ability.

During her AKB48 years, she earned prestigious honors such as the Japan Record Awards, and after graduating in 2013, she continued to build her career as a solo artist.

With her distinctive fashion sense and cool image, she keeps captivating many fans.

Evolving from idol to accomplished artist, her music resonates with everyone pursuing their dreams.

PerfumeEito

Perfume / Eito (Official Music Video)
PerfumeEito

Known as a singer-songwriter from Yokohama, Eito has drawn attention for his J-pop foundation, gentle vocals, and down-to-earth lyrics.

Before starting his music career, he taught himself guitar while working part-time in his hometown, and after a period of groundwork, his 2020 release “Kousui” became a massive hit.

His appeal lies in a sound that incorporates diverse elements such as R&B, soul, and acoustic styles, and he has achieved remarkable milestones including performing at the 71st NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year and receiving a Special Award at the Japan Record Awards.

Eito’s music, characterized by simple melodies and sincere lyrics that resonate with the heart, is recommended for music fans seeking moments of emotion and joy in everyday life.

Kawasaki Drift

BAD HOP

BAD HOP – Kawasaki Drift / THE FIRST TAKE
BAD HOP

BAD HOP, a hip-hop crew born in Ikegami-cho, an industrial district of Kawasaki, Kanagawa, is an eight-member group whose story is a miraculous success tale.

Formed in 2014 around twin brothers T-Pablow and YZERR, they chose a self-produced path without relying on a major label.

Following their first nationwide release, the 2017 album “Mobb Life,” their fame quickly spread across Japan.

In 2019, they went to Los Angeles and created the EP “Lift Off” with world-renowned producers like Murda Beatz and Metro Boomin, bringing a fresh breeze to Japan’s hip-hop scene.

Up to their final concert at Tokyo Dome in February 2024, BAD HOP remained a beacon of hope for young people.

Their music, rooted in real-life experiences and powerful messages, continues to move the hearts of many listeners.

Shonan no Kaze

HAN-KUN、SHOCK EYE、RED RICE

Shonan no Kaze – Junrenka / THE FIRST TAKE
HAN-KUN、SHOCK EYE、RED RICE

Shonan no Kaze is a reggae group formed by four members, three of whom are from Kamakura City in Kanagawa Prefecture.

Their distinctive members weave together a unique musicality that leads the reggae scene.

Since their debut in 2003 with the album “Shonan no Kaze ~Real Riders~,” their songs—rooted in reggae while blending a wide range of genres such as J-POP and rock—have gained widespread popularity.

Each member has also achieved notable success individually: HAN-KUN won MTV’s Best Reggae Video Award in 2010 for a solo track; SHOCK EYE published the book “The Small Habits I Cherish as Someone Called a Walking Power Spot,” drawing media attention; and RED RICE is active beyond music, sharing golf content on his YouTube channel “Red Rice TV.” Experience the sound nurtured by the sea breeze of Shonan for yourself.