RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

Bands, artists, and singers from Kumamoto Prefecture

Do you know any artists from Kumamoto Prefecture?

When people talk about Kyushu, Fukuoka tends to get most of the attention, and it’s true that Fukuoka has produced many popular artists—but Kumamoto holds its own too!

In recent years, there have been plenty of artists from Kumamoto who enjoy widespread popularity and name recognition across all ages, including nationally beloved rock bands, singer-songwriters, and veteran enka singers.

In this article, we’ll introduce a whole lineup of artists from Kumamoto Prefecture, so take this opportunity to check them out!

Bands, artists, and singers from Kumamoto Prefecture (31–40)

Tokyo’s WinterA Natsume

Tokyo Winter – A Natsume (Official Music Video)
Tokyo's WinterA Natsume

A Natsume, a rapper and singer-songwriter from Kumamoto Prefecture, has been gaining attention for a unique musical style that blends hip-hop with a variety of genres.

Their popularity rose following a performance on a TV program in 2020, leading to the release of the album “Carry Case” in 2022 and the EP “Winter Candle” in 2023.

In April 2024, they are set to release their long-awaited major-label debut album “Gum” via Victor Entertainment.

Their songs, which convey down-to-earth messages about themes like parent-child bonds and self-affirmation, resonate with many young listeners.

Beyond music, they also create their own artwork, showcasing multifaceted talent.

With a gentle, delicate voice, lyrics that capture everyday life, and chill-out sounds, their works offer a soothing listening experience—highly recommended for those seeking calm, peaceful moments.

friendNakamura Chihiro

Chihiro Nakamura / Friends (Short Version)
friendNakamura Chihiro

A female singer-songwriter from Yatsushiro City in Kumamoto Prefecture.

She is also part of the unit “Higosatsuma” with Wakamatsu Go from the rock band Boyakeruzu, which was formed in Kagoshima Prefecture.

She has been attracting attention for her cute looks and clear, translucent singing voice.

Sakura Kimi ni Emuyozuka*

Yozuca*, who works as a singer-songwriter, is from Kumamoto Prefecture.

She is also active as part of the music units “yozurino*” and “GLS.” Her 14th single, “Sakura Kimi ni Emu,” ranks fourth in total sales among her releases, but it achieved her personal best of 14th place on the Oricon weekly chart.

Eddie’s SongChārī Nagatani

Charlie Nagatani “Eddie’s Song” — Hang in there, Kumamoto!
Eddie's SongChārī Nagatani

A country singer born in Kumamoto City.

He performs with the country band “Charlie Nagatani and the Western Cannonballs.” He serves as the executive producer of one of Japan’s largest country music festivals, held at the outdoor theater ASPECTA in Minamiaso Village, Kumamoto.

One of the twoNanjo Koji

Koji Nanjo (performed by himself) - One of Two
One of the twoNanjo Koji

Koji Nanjo is a singer and actor from Kumamoto City who debuted in 1973.

As an actor, he appeared in numerous works such as Mito Komon and Abarenbo Shogun.

Futatsu ni Hitotsu is the second single released by the singer Koji Nanjo in 1981.

Bands, artists, and singers from Kumamoto Prefecture (41–50)

Snow FireflyTsukahara Teppei

Snow Fireflies — Teppei Tsukahara
Snow FireflyTsukahara Teppei

Teppei Tsukahara is an enka singer from Hitoyoshi City who made his major debut in 2008.

From his amateur days, he was active in karaoke and singing contests and set his sights on becoming a professional.

“Yuki Hotaru” is a single released by Holiday Japan in 2015.

Flowers Nestled TogetherNishikawa Hitomi

Hitomi Nishikawa is an enka singer from Yatsushiro who debuted in 1994.

Born the daughter of a rōkyoku performer, she possesses excellent vocal ability.

She is also skilled in storytelling and hosts a regular program on TV Saitama.

“Yorisoi-bana” is a single released in 2008.