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
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- 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
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- 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 (41–50)
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.
Deep dive into popular bands and artists from Nagano (51–60)
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.
ASIAN2
The members of the mixture band ASIAN2 are from Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture.
Their first single, “Honey The Mountain,” broke out in Nagano with support from local media.
It also reached No.
1 nationwide on the cable request rankings.
440nanase
Nanase is a rising singer-songwriter from Nagano City.
When she was in elementary school, she was a Morning Musume fan who especially supported Sayumi Michishige, and she even dreamed of being an idol herself.
Her soothing, leisurely vocals over gentle melodies are deeply comforting.
At the same time, she can be strikingly emotional, piercing your heart with powerful, intense words.
In any case, there’s a delicate brilliance that shines through.
Her voice may sound sweet, yet it also carries a cool, mature edge—listen for how those qualities overlap.
