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 and artists from Nagano (11–20)
spring hazehappīsetto
Happy Set is a band based in Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture.
Formed out of their light music club activities, they have a charming, down-to-earth motto: “We want to be the side menu to your life.” They made their presence known with Hanagumori, released in 2024, and have been expanding their following with songs like “Declaration of Determination” and “Marginal Man.” In 2025, they were selected as finalists for Mynavi Senkou Riot, a gateway for teenage artists, and took the stage at Zepp DiverCity (TOKYO) in August of the same year.
With clear twin guitars, a driving, high-velocity sound, and straightforward vocals, their music brims with the sparkle and bittersweetness of youth—hallmarks of this compelling guitar band.
BODY TO BODYFujii Masaki (SOFT BALLET)
Masaki Fujii is a musician from Iiyama City.
He was a member of the band SOFT BALLET, whose distinctive members created a one-of-a-kind style, and later reunited with fellow member Ken Morioka to form minus(-).
He plays synthesizer and guitar.
After a talk session, he married Mari Hamada, of whom he had been a huge fan.
Fujii is known for many striking anecdotes—such as disliking live performances and chewing on rubber—but he excels at supporting his bandmates and working behind the scenes, leveraging his disciplined nature.
End the worldKan Daichi (Harukamirai)
Daichi Seki, the guitarist of the rock band Harukamirai—known for songs reminiscent of early-2000s youth punk bands—is from Nagano Prefecture.
While Harukamirai formed in 2012, Seki joined the band in 2016 after the previous guitarist left.
Surprisingly, before joining Harukamirai, he was a member of a loud rock band.
DreamingReiRay
A twin-vocal duo formed by ReI Yajima and Rei Kessner from Ina City, Nagano Prefecture.
After their previous band FAITH, they began full-fledged activities in October 2021.
While rooted in Western pop, their sound richly incorporates elements of hip-hop and funk.
In August 2022, they released Typhoon, a track symbolizing their fresh start, followed by songs like Skate Girl that shine with uplifting messages.
Their soaring vocals layered with sweet rap create harmonies that are incredibly pleasant to listen to.
If you like breezy pop, you’re sure to be hooked.
Nitta Emi
Emi Nitta, who is active as a voice actress and singer, is from Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture.
She made her major debut as a singer with her first single, “Egao to Egao de Hajimaru yo!” This single reached 12th place on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
In 2015, she appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen as a member of the idol group μ’s.
Toshiya（DIR EN GREY）
Toshiya, the bassist of the visual kei rock band Dir en grey, is from Nagano Prefecture.
He reportedly started out playing guitar when he first got into bands, but after struggling with it, he switched to bass.
Since Dir en grey’s major debut, his distinctive playing style has continued to influence many bassists.
Deep dive into popular bands and artists from Nagano (21–30)
my rulesMhiro（Full Of Harmony）
Hailing from Nagano Prefecture and raised in a family of musicians, Mhiro fell deeply in love with soul music from an early age.
Rooted in R&B and hip-hop, his compelling style shines in the way he sings with heartfelt, human emotion.
He made his major debut in 1999 as the lead singer of Full Of Harmony.
Since 2009, he has also pursued an active solo career, with “Kimi Iro Biyori” topping digital charts consecutively.
He has proven his talent as a producer as well—one of the songs he provided to TEE became a massive hit, surpassing 4 million downloads in total.
Keep an ear out for his sweet, soaring voice and impeccable melodic sensibility!