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Bands, artists, and singers from Mie Prefecture

When it comes to artists from Mie Prefecture, there are many across different generations—from Kana Nishino to Shizue Abe.

Still, some people might find it hard to immediately think of artists from Mie.

So in this article, we’ll introduce a whole lineup of artists from Mie Prefecture!

We’ve picked a wide range spanning singer-songwriters, bands, saxophonists, and more, regardless of genre or era, so try finding a new favorite.

Bands, artists, and singers from Mie Prefecture (1–10)

LifeMs. OOJA

Singer-songwriter Ms.OOJA, known for her soothing vocals that have become a hot topic, hails from Yokkaichi City in Mie Prefecture.

Her voice drew attention for exhibiting 1/f fluctuation.

This refers to a specific type of frequency fluctuation, and it’s said that seeing movements or hearing sounds with 1/f fluctuation instinctively brings a sense of calm.

In addition to her original songs, she has actively produced cover albums, and her works let you fully savor her exquisite voice and overwhelming vocal prowess.

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Ken Hirai 'Close Your Eyes' MUSIC VIDEO
Close your eyesHirai Ken

Ken Hirai, who has produced numerous hit ballads led by “Hitomi wo Tojite,” hails from Nabari City in Mie Prefecture.

Born in Osaka, he spent his years up through high school in Kikyogaoka, Nabari.

He won the “Sony Music Entertainment Audition -Breath-” and made his debut as a singer.

Although his early releases didn’t sell well, his 8th single “Rakuen” became a long-running hit through cable radio and other channels, earning him growing support.

Grounded in Black music that reflects the influence of his beloved Donny Hathaway, his strength is an all-around singing style that can handle any genre.

The catchy appeal of “POP STAR” makes him approachable, while the humorous and unique side shown in songs like “Soredemoshitai” is astonishing.

Above all, his R&B direction overflowing with sensuality—as in “style”—is incredibly cool.

From the bar-themed live series “Ken’s Bar” to his relentless pursuit as a true “uta-baka” (song fanatic), his one-of-a-kind style is something you won’t want to take your eyes off!

LINDBERG

Kiss me right nowWatarase Maki

Maki Watase, who delivers a powerful vocal performance as the singer of LINDBERG, hails from Toba City in Mie Prefecture.

In 1986, she won the Grand Prix in the Young Jump Queen contest and began her entertainment career under her real name.

She made her debut as an idol singer in 1987 with Pearlmond Kiss.

Later, she formed LINDBERG in 1988 and made a major debut in 1989 with the single “ROUTE 246.” After the band disbanded in 2002 and until its reunion in 2014, she launched a children’s clothing brand and continued musical activities alongside LINDBERG’s guitarist Tatsuya Hirakawa.

She has also written songs for artists such as TOKIO and Hitomi Shimatani, and has participated in tracks by groups like Inazuma Sentai.

Bands, Artists, and Singers from Mie Prefecture (11–20)

Nagareda Project

Future Saint Fighter Ω? Saint Evolution?Nagareda Yutaka

Nagareda Project / Saint Seiya Omega ~Saint Evolution~
Future Saint Fighter Ω? Saint Evolution?Nagareda Yutaka

Nagareda Project is a masked band that made its debut after gaining attention with “I tried playing” performance videos.

The band’s guitarist-vocalist, Yutaka Nagareda, hails from Tsu City in Mie Prefecture.

As the frontman, he often handles the MC role and is known for his engaging talk, including lively banter in Kansai dialect.

While the band is strongly associated with being an anime song cover band, Yutaka Nagareda is also a devoted Beatles fan and has even held Beatles cover live shows.

His solid musicianship as a bandman and his approachable personality are major parts of his appeal.

SEX MACHINEGUNS

There, you…PANTHER

SEX MACHINEGUNS – There, You…
There, you...PANTHER

PANTHER, who for a time played guitar for SEX MACHINEGUNS under the name CIRCUIT.V.PANTHER, is from Tsu City in Mie Prefecture.

He first joined in 2001 as a support guitarist, but became an official member that same year.

When the band temporarily disbanded in 2003, he began solo activities and released the album “Sexy Finger.” He rejoined when the band reunited in 2004, but left in 2006.

That same year he launched activities with the band CYCLE, and in 2011 he also held a solo one-man live show.

He is an avid user of ESP guitars and has conducted clinics at schools within the ESP group.

Treasure ~Until This Voice Fades Away~Naoto Intiraymi

Naoto Inti Raymi “Takaramono ~Until This Voice Disappears~” Music Video
Treasure ~Until This Voice Fades Away~Naoto Intiraymi

Singer-songwriter Naoto Inti Raymi hails from Kameyama City in Mie Prefecture.

True to the meaning of his name Inti Raymi—“Festival of the Sun”—his distinctive singing voice warmly embraces listeners.

He made his major debut in 2001 under the name Naoto with the release of “Growing up !!.” After traveling the world, he debuted a second time in 2005 under the name NAOTO INTI RAYMI, and then made a third debut in 2010 under the name Naoto Inti Raymi with the single “Carnival↑?” He is also highly skilled at soccer, having played for the Kashiwa Reysol junior youth team, and has participated in futsal tournaments and appeared frequently on soccer-related TV programs.

Koto no Hasutēpurā

Stapler [KOTONOHA] Music Video
Koto no Hasutēpurā

Stapler is a band formed in Iga, Mie Prefecture, known for their strikingly refreshing sound.

They initially began performing under the name SAME.

In 2015, they released their first nationwide mini-album, “Image,” and continued to actively release music and play live shows.

Despite lineup changes, the band turned over a new leaf in 2020 when bassist Kaito Kurano joined, changing their name to Stapler.

That same year, they released the mini-album “Realize” and finally made their major-label debut.