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 (21–30)
kamijou chihiro (9mm Parabellum Bullet)
Chihiro Kamijo, the drummer for the rock band 9mm Parabellum Bullet, is from Tatsuno Town in Kamiina District, Nagano Prefecture.
Known for his visually striking performances—such as intense drumming and stick tricks—he has influenced many drummers.
Recently, he has also been active in instructional videos and similar projects.
Hymn to the Four SeasonsHiito Aka
Singer-songwriter Akari Hiiragi, who has roots in Nagano where she spent her elementary school years, began her career in 2017 while still in college and released her first full album, “The Labeling,” in May 2022.
A song she created as the theme for a novel also drew attention.
Her appeal lies in her multifaceted talent—handling everything from songwriting to video editing.
In March 2024, she won the grand prize in an audition for a singer-songwriter festival and performed on the stage of Ryogoku Kokugikan, underscoring her prowess.
Her songs, which gently stand by listeners’ everyday anxieties and worries, are sure to resonate with those who feel the same way.
Shin (ViViD)
Shin, who was the vocalist for the rock band ViViD, is from Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture.
They made their major debut with the first single “Yume ~Mugen no Kanata~.” The title track was used as the ending theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Level E,” marking their first anime tie-in.
CASANOVA FISH
This song is by CASANOVA FISH, a rock band based in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture.
The members are a young band in their teens, and their songs that portray themselves as they are have been gaining popularity.
Wouldn’t you say they’re a rock band from Nagano to watch in the future?
AttitudeFujisawa Ryoga (Mrs. GREEN APPLE)
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE is a band especially popular among younger generations.
They’re a five-piece group riding high right now, known for many refreshing youth anthems and powerful tracks that lift your spirits.
One of the five members, keyboardist Ryosuke “Ryo-chan” Fujisawa, is from Nagano Prefecture.
He attended Komoro High School, which is known for its brass band.
In addition to keyboards, Fujisawa plays a range of keyboard instruments such as piano and organ, and he also plays the flute.
OGRE YOU ASSHOLE
The members of the rock band OGRE YOU ASSHOLE are from Nagano Prefecture.
They made their major-label debut in 2009 with the single “Pinhole.” In 2010, they toured 18 cities across the United States and Canada together with Montreal-based Wolf Parade.
Last LetterAiji, Jun (PIERROT)
Aiji and Jun, who were active as members of the rock band PIERROT, are from Nagano Prefecture.
“Last Letter,” released as their 4th single, achieved the highest sales in PIERROT’s history.
This song was the last work released under the name Pierrot, and from the next release onward, they were released under the name PIERROT.