Bands, artists, and singers from Nagasaki Prefecture
Nagasaki Prefecture is a city in Kyushu with a distinctly exotic atmosphere.
When it comes to artists from Kyushu, attention tends to focus on those from Fukuoka, but many musicians have also emerged from Nagasaki!
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of artists from Nagasaki all at once.
From beloved national singer-songwriters to members of popular rock bands, we’ve picked artists across genres.
If you find a favorite, be sure to take your time and listen to their songs!
Bands, artists, and singers from Nagasaki Prefecture (1–10)
SteadySHANK
When you think of artists from Nagasaki Prefecture, SHANK is probably the first name that comes to mind for rock band fans.
Formed in 2004, all the members are from Nagasaki.
Their songs are appealing for their classic fast, exhilarating melodic hardcore approach, combined with songwriting that incorporates ska elements.
They also host their own annual music festival, BLAZE UP NAGASAKI, and are one of the rock bands that proudly represent and continue to support their hometown.
innocenceLamp in terren
Formed in 2006 in Nagasaki Prefecture by classmates who were then in their second year of junior high, LAMP IN TERREN is a band whose name is a coined term derived from the Latin word “terra,” meaning stars and earth, and is said to carry the meaning “a faint light in this world.” They made their major debut in 2014 and, while performing live energetically, went through member departures and are now active as a trio.
True to the meaning embedded in their name, they are a rock band that adds color to everyday life.
It’s not me unless it’s meKawatani Enon (Gesu no Kiwami Otome.)
Enon Kawatani showcases his multifaceted musical talents as a vocalist, guitarist, keyboardist, songwriter, and producer, performing not only in five bands—including indigo la End, Gesu no Kiwami Otome, and Genie High—but also as a solo artist.
He hails from Matsuura City in Nagasaki Prefecture.
Possessing a delicate, singular sensibility and exceptional musical taste, his works—reflecting his unique worldview—captivate listeners.
Beyond music, he has also made his acting debut, and we can look forward to even greater achievements from him in the future!
HELLOFukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama, who continues to be at the forefront both as an actor and as a singer, is from Nagasaki City in Nagasaki Prefecture.
He debuted in 1990 with “In the Remains of the Rain,” and has since released numerous masterpieces such as “Good night,” “Sakurazaka,” and “Squall.” His popularity as a singer is a given, but the contrast between his rigorous dedication to roles as an actor and his friendly personality on the radio is truly irresistible! He also holds tours regularly, so be sure to experience his charm live if you can!
An endlessly continuing storyMISIA
MISIA, a songstress who has become not only a Japanese star but a global artist, also hails from Nagasaki Prefecture.
Blessed with an overwhelming vocal ability spanning five octaves, MISIA spent her childhood on nature-rich Tsushima in Nagasaki and was familiar with gospel from a young age.
She rose to prominence as a pioneer of Japanese female R&B.
Her signature song “Everything,” released in 2000, holds the highest sales among singles by female artists in the 2000s.
We hope she will continue to sing out for love and peace.
sea glassHorie Atsushi, Nakayama Shinpei (Sutoreitenā)
Atsushi Horie, who serves as guitarist and vocalist for the alternative rock band Straightener, and Shinpei Nakayama, who plays drums, are both from Nagasaki Prefecture.
Centered around the two of them, Straightener was formed in 1998.
While continuously updating their sound, the band has remained true to its core.
They have appeared at many events held in Nagasaki, and in 2018 both were appointed as tourism ambassadors for Nagasaki City, reflecting their dedication to and love for their hometown.
If you ever visit Nagasaki, be sure to give them a listen as your travel companion!
Nameless PoemNakagawa Keisuke (Mr.Children)
Keisuke Nakagawa, the bassist of Mr.Children—one of Japan’s most iconic bands—was born in Nagasaki Prefecture.
Fans affectionately call him “Nakakē.” He often favors Fender Jazz Basses, and his supportive, song-centric bass playing is widely appreciated.
On stage, his aggressive expressions and intense performance style are incredibly compelling.
His changing hairstyles also draw attention, and his good looks have earned him an especially dedicated fan base.
In his private life, he’s known as a baseball enthusiast and Hanshin Tigers fan, and his connections through baseball—such as with Hanshin alumnus Shinjiro Hiyama—are also well known.
