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 (51–60)
Tanaka Takahisa (THE Toraba-ryu)
Takahisa Tanaka, who plays bass guitar for the rock band THE Torabaru (THE Tora Buryu), is from Ueda City in Nagano Prefecture.
“Road” is THE Torabaru’s signature song; it ranked 3rd on Oricon’s annual chart for 1993 and became a million seller.
A total of 13 chapters of “Road” were produced.
Tanaka Akihito (Za Beibīsutāzu)
Akihito Tanaka, the vocalist of the two-member band The Babystars, is from Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture.
They made their major debut with their first single, “Hikari e,” and the title track was used as the opening theme for the Fuji TV anime One Piece.
MY Mai☆TONIGHTFurihata Ai (Aqours)
Voice actress Ai Furihata, a member of the idol group Aqours from Love Live! Sunshine!!, is also from Nagano Prefecture.
She performs songs featured in the series, and there are tracks where she serves as the center! Known among the members for her exceptional love for her role, she has been active across a wide range of works beyond Love Live!, including the Pretty Cure series and popular video games.
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!
Deep Dive into Popular Bands & Artists from Nagano (61–70)
searchlightkotonoha
kOTOnoha is a rock band from Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, formed in 2014.
True to their name, which evokes “words,” they place great value on expression in Japanese, crafting lyrics that turn the resonance of language and candid feelings into words.
Their style includes rap-like delivery and shouts, conveying their message in various ways that don’t fit into a single mold.
Sonically, there’s a strong sense of emotion.
Since 2019, they have been active under the Niigata City–based label KIZUNA RECORDS.
Toy Cha-Cha-ChaNakano Keiko
Keiko Nakano, who served as the very first “Uta no Onee-san” (lead singing sister) on the popular NHK Educational TV program Okāsan to Issho, belonged to the NHK Matsumoto Children’s Choir.
After graduating from high school, she entered NHK’s acting training school and began her full-fledged career in entertainment.
Today, she is active not only as a singer but also as a producer, appearing at children’s music events and the like.
Kokoro koko karaALLaNHiLLZ
A music duo from Saku City, Nagano Prefecture, known for their unique slogan: “Twins! Curly hair! Left-handed!” Their sound is described as “folky mixture pop,” blending rock, funk, and more into songs crafted with a distinctive sensibility.
The older brother, Takumi Ide, delivers piercing high tones, while the younger brother, Tadashi Ide, weaves in guitar and rap for a perfect interplay.
They made their major debut in February 2009, and one of their songs gained attention when it was selected as a TV show ending theme.
If you enjoy genre-defying music and sibling harmonies, give them a listen!