Bands, artists, and singers from the Kanto region

YO MA SUNSHINEHachimura Rintarō

WATWING 「YO MA SUNSHINE」Music Video

Rintaro Hachimura, who took flight from Yokosuka City in Kanagawa Prefecture, is active as a member of the dance and vocal group WATWING.

He boasts strong academic credentials, having completed a major in English and American Literature at Keio University’s Faculty of Letters, and was discovered in 2019 through the “Star Boys Audition” hosted by Horipro.

Since the group’s digital debut single in January 2020, he has stood out as a core member, captivating audiences with vocals spanning a wide range from low to high notes and dynamic dancing that makes full use of his tall stature.

He made his acting debut in the TV drama “Homera Retai Boku no Mousou Gohan” (“I Want to Be Praised: My Delusional Meals”) and has since appeared in numerous works.

While juggling both music and acting, he has also blossomed as a multitalented performer by serving as a radio DJ on FM Yokohama.

His deep passion for music—evident in hobbies like krump dancing and composing—translates into a broad expressive range that captivates audiences.

Haste and WasteKawaei Rina

[MV Full] Haste to Waste / AKB48 [Official]

Rina Kawaei, who made a brilliant transition from AKB48 idol to actress, entered the entertainment industry in 2010 as an 11th-generation member of the group.

She was active on variety shows and ranked 16th in the 6th AKB48 General Election in 2014, making her a popular member.

After graduating in 2015, she devoted herself to acting, and in 2021 her talent was recognized when she was selected as the heroine of an NHK morning drama from among 3,061 candidates.

In 2019, her film performance earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 61st Blue Ribbon Awards.

Her distinctive acting style, which conveys emotions with lightness and ease, has won widespread support from viewers.

Kawaei’s appeal lies in the blend of approachability and solid skill that she has cultivated in her growth from idol to actress.

Wish You Could Come feat. SaticaYaffle

Yaffle – Wish You Could Come feat. Satica (Official Music Video)

Yaffle began playing piano at the age of six and expanded his musical activities during high school.

While studying at Kunitachi College of Music, he launched his career as a composer and arranger, and in 2018 he started the “Yaffle” project.

His appeal lies in a flexible musicality that moves freely across a wide range of genres, including pop, R&B, jazz, and classical.

In 2020, he realized collaborations with European artists on the album “Lost, Never Gone.” He also took part in the compilation album commemorating Pokémon’s 25th anniversary as the only Japanese artist featured.

In 2023, he produced the album “After the chaos” in Iceland, opening up a new post-classical frontier.

With his inventive sound and innovative arrangements, his pursuit of genre-transcending musical possibilities is perfect for listeners seeking fresh musical experiences.

rayBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「ray」

This band began with the unusual lineup of all childhood friends born in 1979.

Often classified as alternative rock or J-rock, they debuted in 1999 with the indie album “FLAME VEIN.” They made their major-label debut in 2000 and have since been active while providing numerous theme songs for anime and films.

Motoharu Fujiwara, the central figure of the band, writes and composes nearly all of their songs.

With profound lyrics and melodious sound, they continue to captivate many fans.

In 2007, they achieved a rare triple crown in the same year at the SPACE SHOWER Music Video Awards 2008, a testament to their highly regarded talent.

BUMP OF CHICKEN also produces tracks that incorporate techno-inspired approaches into their band sound, taking on a wide range of musical styles, making them a perfect fit for music fans who love melodic songs.

Brand-New Myself? What I Can DoCharcoal Filter

Charcoal Filter – Brand-New Myself

Yuki Yasui, who played bass in the four-piece rock band CHARCOAL FILTER, is from Gunma Prefecture.

Their song was used in the Otsuka Beverage “MATCH” commercial.

The tune is very pop, and it’s a track you can groove to even on the first listen.

Elastic GIrlKahimi Karie

Kahimi Karie – Elastic Girl

A musician from Utsunomiya City.

Her husband is tap dancer Kazunori Kumagai.

She currently lives in New York.

A singer known for her whisper-like voice and innocent sexiness.

She also has experience performing the opening theme for Chibi Maruko-chan.

ComedyHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Comedy (Official Video)

While demonstrating diverse talents as a singer-songwriter, actor, and novelist, he continues to thrive as a global artist.

In 2000, he formed the instrumental band SAKEROCK, and in 2010 he made his solo debut with the album “Baka no Uta.” His unique sound—blending J-pop, dance music, and Black music—has captivated fans in Japan and abroad.

After a miraculous comeback from a subarachnoid hemorrhage, he won the Japan Gold Disc Award with the album “YELLOW DANCER.” A signature song born as a TV drama theme sparked dance videos across social media worldwide, becoming a major catalyst for Gen Hoshino’s growing support overseas.

Masterfully navigating music, film, and writing, he continues to move our hearts across borders.