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.
- A classic song about Nagano. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
- Bands, artists, and singers from Okinawa Prefecture
- [Ones to Watch in 2026!] Recommended Female Singers & Recent Female Artists
- Masterpieces by male artists known for their captivating high notes. Recommended popular songs.
- Masterpieces and popular songs by Gen Hoshino
- Songs by male artists known for their captivating deep voices. Classic Japanese hits and recommended popular tracks.
- An artist who thrives on social media! What are YUIKA’s popular songs?
- A lineup of buzzworthy artists! Ranking of MAISONdes' popular songs
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among People in Their 20s [2026]
- Hidden gems and lesser-known songs by popular Japanese rock bands
- [So touching it makes you cry] A heartbreakingly wistful and sad song that tightens your chest
- Breakup songs by female artists recommended for the yutori generation
- Recommended songs by King Gnu: a carefully selected list of masterpieces that will get you hooked once you listen.
Deep dive into popular bands and artists from Nagano (21–30)
Little BoyJirō Yamaoka
Singer-songwriter Jiro Yamaoka, who is active mainly in Nagano Prefecture.
Rooted in blues and folk, he distills those influences into his songs with a unique sensibility.
His greatest appeal is, above all, that husky singing voice that leaves a strong impression the instant you hear it.
I’m sure many people love singers with husky voices, and if you’re one of them, you should definitely give his vocals a listen.
They’re easy on the ears and will make you want to go to a show and experience them right in front of you.
Itou Kanae
Kanae Ito, who is active as a voice actress and singer, is from Nagano City in Nagano Prefecture.
She released her first single, “Yume Miru Kokoro,” and the title track was used as the ending theme for the TBS anime Taisho Baseball Girls, in which she voiced the main character.
Deep dive into popular bands and artists from Nagano (31–40)
Love for SaleDenda Mao
Mao Denda celebrates her 20th anniversary since debut.
She is known for her clear yet powerful voice and melodies that fuse ballad style with a pop sensibility.
She temporarily paused her activities in 2002 but resumed in 2006.
At the time of her comeback, she was active under the name MAO/D.
If you know that she handled a segment on Ryota Yamasato’s radio show Yanpeace, you’re quite the radio enthusiast.
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.
SUNDAYFurukawa Yuta
Actor Yudai Furukawa, who is active not only in television and film but also on stage, is also from Nagano Prefecture.
Many of you may know him for playing the fourth-generation Shusuke Fuji in the musical The Prince of Tennis, one of the highlights of his career.
He also pursues a singing career, making use of the vocal skills he honed in musicals—his clear, transparent voice is wonderfully refreshing and charming!
Unite As Onemāmu (Q’ulle)
Q’ulle is a unit formed by five members who launched the “Odottemita” dance movement from within Niconico.
Riding on an emotional rock sound, they are actively working as a rock dance unit to serve as a bridge between the online and real worlds.
Beyond their dance, their bright, crystalline vocals are also a major draw.
This song sings about the importance of companions and the strength to move forward—how there are places you can’t reach alone, but can go together with you.
Fujimori Shingo (RADIO FISH)
Shingo Fujimori, who performs as part of the comedy duo Oriental Radio, is from Suwa City in Nagano Prefecture.
He is also active as a member of the dance and vocal unit RADIO FISH, centered around Oriental Radio.
Their digital-only single PERFECT HUMAN became a hot topic and sparked a resurgence in their popularity, as many of you may know.