Deep dive into popular bands and artists from Nagano
When you hear “artists from Nagano,” which bands or singers come to mind? Even if there’s an artist you’re curious about or a favorite song you love, many people might think, “Come to think of it, I don’t actually know where they’re from…” In this article, we’re spotlighting bands, musicians, and singer-songwriters with roots in Nagano Prefecture! From veteran singers everyone knows, to massively popular bands essential to the J-pop scene, idols, and musicians who enjoy passionate local support—we invite you to enjoy the journeys and signature songs of artists closely connected to Nagano right to the very end.
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Deep Dive into Popular Bands & Artists from Nagano (61–70)
BOYS&GIRLSLM.C
LM.C was formed by Aiji, formerly of PIERROT, and maya, who has performed with various bands, brought together by their shared roots in Nagano Prefecture.
Their signature appeal lies in their music style, a bold fusion of rock and digital sounds they call “New Century Electorock”! They made their major debut in October 2006, and their song “88,” selected as a theme for the anime Reborn! (Katekyo Hitman Reborn!), is one of their defining tracks.
Its poppy, catchy melodies and the energetic sound that creates a sense of unity at live shows are truly wonderful.
If you’re looking for upbeat music that goes beyond the boundaries of visual kei, definitely give them a listen!
Before the snow meltsSHE’ll SLEEP
This is a three-piece rock band formed in 2018 and based in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture.
Their straightforward band sound and fresh melodies, which evoke the sparkle and bittersweetness of youth, are truly wonderful! Musically, they lean toward melodic hardcore with Japanese lyrics full of speed and drive—perfect for anyone who loves straight-ahead rock.
One of their signature works, the 2022 album “NINE,” was selected for Tower Records’ “Tawarekomen” recommendations chosen by CD shop staff nationwide.
There’s also a heartwarming, almost cinematic story: one of their songs was used in a commercial for a local logistics company where the drummer had turned down a job offer.
Shariraiarukutoofuu
Arukutoofu is a band based in Kamisuwa, Nagano Prefecture.
They describe their music as an “aggressive pop band,” and the blend of vocalist Rikako’s light, captivating voice with their edgy band sound is truly compelling.
The band began in their high school light music club, and in 2019 they proved their talent by being selected as finalists in the teens-only music festival “Mikakunin Festival.” In November 2021, they released the story-rich mini-album “Cypher Room.” If you crave music that’s more than just pop, be sure to give them a listen!
Boyhood seasonSetsuna Buru Sutā
Setsuna Blue Star is a three-piece rock band formed in Nagano Prefecture.
Centered on guitar rock, their appeal lies in a worldview that powerfully yet poignantly portrays the inner lives of young people.
Remarkably, they performed at the Fuji Rock Festival in July 2001 as the “youngest ever” act.
They made their major-label debut in June 2002 with the single “Shonenki,” and captured the hearts of many listeners with releases such as the album “Kiseki.” Their music can gouge your chest with impulsive sound one moment, then seep in with unexpectedly sentimental melodies the next—the breadth of that range is wonderful.
If you enjoy guitar rock that blends ferocity with delicacy, or lyrics that sketch inner landscapes, be sure to experience their sonic world.
lamplightbigguedii
A four-piece rock band based in Ueda, Nagano, rapidly gaining momentum.
Their greatest appeal is, without a doubt, their exhilarating, fast-paced guitar rock sound! The shouted, soaring vocals and straightforward lyrics seize listeners’ hearts.
Formed in December 2022, they released the single “Kokouto Shiroku” in February 2023.
They’ve kept the momentum going with releases like the EP “EDDY,” and they’re not to be missed.
If you’re looking for a band with raw edges yet irresistibly catchy melodies that stick after a single listen, you’re sure to get hooked on their music!
planetwatashitachi
A three-piece rock band based in Ueda, Nagano Prefecture.
Formed in February 2024, they play rock that cherishes strong, song-centric melodies.
The twin vocals by Mr.
Ibe and Mr.
Mamunida intertwine with Ms.
Tsubaki Fujii’s backing vocals to create a captivating three-part harmony.
Their mini-album “From Us” was released for streaming in September 2025, and with it they embarked on a 16-date tour, including a hometown show in Ueda—activity you won’t want to miss.
They’re the perfect band for anyone seeking words and melodies that resonate with everyday life, or for those who want to support a new talent from Nagano that’s ready to take flight.
SPEED STARTerada Takeshi (Quarter Century)
Singer-songwriter Takeshi Terada from Nagano City captivates with catchy melodies that fuse pop and rock.
His career traces back to his former band Joe Harp, with a legendary story of drawing over 300 people to a street performance in front of Nagano Station.
In 2003, he made his major-label debut with the band Harebare, gaining nationwide recognition with songs featured as opening themes for the popular anime SD Gundam Force and TBS’s CDTV.
He is currently part of Quarter Century with LINDBERG’s Masanori “CHERRY” Koyanagi, pursuing pop music that transcends generations—a truly inspiring endeavor.