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 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.
CamelliaEuphoric Album
Based in Ueda City, Euphoric Album is a band whose appeal lies in a sound rooted in UK rock, infused with elements of soul and pop.
They began performing in 2018 out of a high school light music community, and released their EP “Daydreamer” in May 2020.
Their talent was recognized early on, winning first place at the Chubu District High School Light Music Club Battle of the Bands in December 2019 while they were still in school.
The vocalist’s fluent English lyrics and the rich, full-bodied sound—where twin guitars are beautifully colored by keyboards—are absolutely wonderful!
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.
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.
Deep Dive into Popular Bands & Artists from Nagano (61–70)
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.
Sasaki Hidemi
Hidemi Sasaki, who is active as a chanson singer, is from the Sugadaira Highlands in Nagano Prefecture.
“Parlez-moi d’amour” was used in 2007 as an insert song in the NHK morning drama series “Chiritotechin,” and because it was well received, it was later released as a single.
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!