Recommended bands, singers, and artists from Osaka Prefecture
What kind of artists come to mind when you hear “artists from Osaka”? Not only those who speak in the Osaka dialect—there are actually many artists from Osaka who usually speak standard Japanese as well.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of bands and singer-songwriters from Osaka all at once.
We’ve picked artists across genres and generations—from those whose Osaka roots are widely known to those whose hometown isn’t as well recognized—so please take a look.
- Bands, artists, and singers from the Kansai region
- [Song of Osaka] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes
- Kansai-dialect Songs | A Kansai-born writer thoroughly explains their charm!
- Masculine Allure: Artists and Bands with Husky Voices
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- [2026] Recommended Breakout Artists: A Roundup of Era-Defining Singers and Groups
- A must-see for Gen Z men! Easy-to-sing songs by male artists for karaoke
- From cute to cool: iconic and recommended songs from uniquely individual girl bands
- [2026] A roundup of artists, singers, and bands from Hyogo Prefecture
- Nothing but masterpieces! Love songs by male artists recommended for Gen Z
- Songs by Yoshimi Tendo, the songstress born in Osaka, that are easy to sing
- Ranking of Popular Songs by Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Songs by Japanese Male Singers from the 1990s [2026]
Recommended Bands, Singers, and Artists from Osaka Prefecture (101–110)
This is my way of life.Yoshimura Yumi
PUFFY made their debut in 1996 with “Asia no Junshin.” One of the duo, Yumi Yoshimura, is from Neyagawa City in Osaka Prefecture.
With their natural, unpretentious music, they’ve been beloved as representative female artists from the 1990s through the 2000s.
Even more than 25 years after their debut, their catalog is full of stylish, timeless classics that still sound current! If you’ve never listened to PUFFY’s songs, they’re available on video sites and streaming services—give them a listen!
Odoru Pompoko RinTsubokura Yui
Yuko Tsubokura of the music group B.B.
Queens is from Osaka.
The group’s name is said to be derived from the American blues singer B.B.
King.
Their song “Odoru Pompokolin” from the anime Chibi Maruko-chan is extremely famous.
YOKAZEHentai Shinshi Kurabu
Did you know that the buzzworthy genre-defying trio, Hentai Shinshi Club, are also from Kansai? The members hail from Osaka and Hyogo.
By bringing out each member’s strengths to the fullest, their down-to-earth, free-spirited vibe really grabs today’s youth and keeps delivering smash hits.
Their snappy live pacing and laugh-inducing MCs showcase that unmistakable Kansai energy, making their shows a blast! They’ve also put out plenty of videos, so if you’ve been curious, be sure to check them out!
Merry Christmas, Mr. LawrenceOshio Kotaro
Kotaro Oshio, an acoustic guitarist from Osaka, captivates many fans with his distinctive fingerstyle.
Influenced by a wide range of genres—including jazz, fusion, and pop—his music is characterized by beautiful acoustic guitar melodies and intricate techniques.
He debuted in 1996 and is known for signature pieces such as “Kaze no Uta” (Poem of the Wind) and “HEART BEAT!”.
In 2008, he became the first Japanese artist to be nominated for a Grammy Award, earning international recognition for his talent.
His live performances brim with appeal that draws dedicated fans.
He’s a recommended artist not only for guitar enthusiasts but also for anyone seeking soothing, comforting music.
ake-kazeHayashi Asuka
Asuka Hayashi, a talented singer from Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, made her debut in 2003 with “ake-kaze.” Thanks to the song’s long-running success, she won New Artist of the Year at the 18th Japan Gold Disc Awards.
She has loved singing since childhood and is said to be influenced by Whitney Houston.
In 2005, she also began working as a singer-songwriter, performing not only on piano but also on guitar.
In 2006, she provided an insert song for an NHK morning drama series and even appeared in the show.
She has earned high praise from notable figures such as Shizuka Ijuin and Shinji Tanimura.
Wishing to convey messages about anti-war and peace, Hayashi’s songs, together with her moving vocals, have captured the hearts of many.
List of recommended bands, singers, and artists from Osaka Prefecture (111–120)
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki
Singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara, who has released numerous classic hits, hails from Takatsuki City in Osaka.
He’s affectionately known as “Macky.” He debuted in 1990 and has had many million-selling hits, including “Donna Toki mo.” He also drew attention as the composer of SMAP’s iconic 2003 song “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana.” His words, sung over fragile yet warming melodies, really resonate with the heart.
His third album, “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” which includes “Tōku Tōku,” is an especially outstanding masterpiece—be sure to give it a listen.
A Beautiful Burning ForestOki Yuuichi
Yuichi Oki, a keyboard player from Osaka, is known as a member of Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra.
Formed in 1985, the band has gained popularity for its musical style that centers on ska while fusing a wide range of genres such as jazz and rock.
Since their major-label debut in 1990, they have released numerous albums and earned high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.
In 2000, they successfully toured Europe and expanded their international activities, even receiving an invitation from the ska pioneers The Skatalites to join a U.S.
tour.
Oki’s intense keyboard playing is one of the highlights of their live performances.
Their collaborations with various artists, including Tamio Okuda and Kazutoshi Sakurai, have also garnered attention.
This band is highly recommended for anyone who wants to fully experience the appeal of ska.