Bands, artists, and singers from the Kanto region

Ikkyu-sankomuai

Wednesday Campanella “Ikkyu-san”

A one-of-a-kind artist nurtured by Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture.

Kom_I, who has taken the music scene by storm with her unique worldview and overwhelming performance skills, began her career in 2012 as the vocalist of the music unit Wednesday Campanella.

She drew attention with innovative sounds that nimbly leap over genre boundaries—J-POP, EDM, hip-hop—and with original lyrics inspired by historical figures and mythology.

In 2016, she performed at SXSW in the United States, and in 2017 she headlined a successful solo concert at Nippon Budokan, earning high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.

With the album “SUPERMAN,” she further broadened her musical range, and through contributions such as providing songs for NHK’s “Nihongo de Asobo,” she has garnered support from a wide audience.

Highly recommended for music fans seeking unfettered expression and high-art performances that defy conventional frameworks.

YO MA SUNSHINEHachimura Rintarō

WATWING 「YO MA SUNSHINE」Music Video

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

He boasts an impressive academic background, having completed a major in English and American literature at Keio University’s Faculty of Letters, and was discovered in 2019 through Horipro’s “Star Boys Audition.” Since the group’s debut digital single in January 2020, he has been a central member, captivating audiences with a vocal range that spans from low to high tones and dynamic dance performances that leverage his tall stature.

He made his acting debut in the TV drama “I Want to Be Praised: My Delusional Meal,” and has appeared in numerous works since.

While balancing music activities and acting, he has also showcased his diverse talents by serving as a radio DJ on FM Yokohama.

His deep passion for music—evident in hobbies like krump dance and composing—translates into a broad expressive power that fascinates 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.