Artists from Toyama Prefecture (bands, idols, singer-songwriters, musicians)
When you hear “an artist from Toyama,” who comes to mind?
It’s exciting to discover musicians from your hometown—whether they’re singers active in the J-pop scene, singer-songwriters, rock bands, and more!
And beyond music, Toyama has produced many distinctive figures, such as manga artist Fujiko F.
Fujio and YouTuber Hajime Syacho.
While researching, I also came across some surprising discoveries that made me think, “Oh, really?!”
I’d be thrilled if this could be a chance for you to discover the charm of Toyama, as well as new favorite music and artists you’ll love.
Artists from Toyama Prefecture <bands, idols, singer-songwriters, musicians> (1–10)
colorsmayuko（Aqua Timez、88flovors）
Mayuko, who handled keyboards for the rock band Aqua Timez and is currently active under the solo project name 88flavors, is from Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture.
She studied piano from a young age.
She joined Aqua Timez in 2003 and made her major debut in 2006.
After the band disbanded in 2018, she launched a solo project and released new music.
In 2021, she released the album “Many TEARS Later.” Her unadorned singing voice is particularly captivating.
Kokiriko-bushiRindō Miyuki
This is Miyuki Rindō, a folk singer from Nanto City in Toyama Prefecture.
She has studied folk music since childhood and has won numerous folk song competitions.
She is very active in live performances and frequently visits facilities and appears at events.
She made her CD debut in 2009 and has continued to release new works.
Some of you may know her as a tourism ambassador for Nanto City.
She has also been involved in hotel commercial songs.
Her appeal lies in a warm, gently heartwarming voice that is very pleasant to listen to.
Summertime LoveIkeda Tomoko (Shiggy Jr.)
Many of you may know “Summertime Love,” which was featured in commercials and in heavy rotation on the radio.
Tomoko Ikeda, who was active as the vocalist of the rock band Shiggy Jr., is from Toyama Prefecture.
The band made its major-label debut with that song in 2015 and, to much regret, disbanded in 2019.
Since then, Ikeda has launched an independent label called tiny_mou and has been working as a solo musician.
If you like gentle, soft vocals, she’s a must-listen.
Explosive Instinct GirlEbata Ikuko
Ikuko Ebata is a singer-songwriter from Toyama Prefecture.
On March 28, 2021, she made a unique VTuber debut as the ultrasonic monster Evacon.
Her musical style is highly valued in the cultural scenes of games and anime.
She has especially sung numerous game theme songs, and her beautiful voice continues to captivate many fans.
She also serves as the vocalist for the technopop unit Manicure-dan and performs as part of the music unit Alaska Smile, making her a truly multi-talented artist.
Her talent radiates from Toyama across the nation like a twinkling star.
JUST DO ITHikaru（Kalafina、H-el-ical//）
Singer Hikaru, who has performed numerous anime theme songs, is from Toyama Prefecture.
If you’re an anime fan, you’ve probably heard her sing at least once.
After passing an audition in 2007, she debuted as a member of the female music group Kalafina.
Since 2020, she has been active under her solo project name H-el-ical//.
She has an incredible voice that overwhelms with power and depth.
Songs like “JUST DO IT” will leave you thrilled by how cool they are!
I’m home; welcome back.Chiba Hana (Yomō to Ohana)
Hana Chiba, who served as the vocalist of the acoustic duo Wool and Ohana, is from Toyama Prefecture.
Wool and Ohana performed songs such as the opening theme for the anime Ikoku Meiro no Croisée the Animation and the theme song for the drama Kuu Neru Futari Sumu Futari.
Chiba’s solid, distinctive voice radiated a singular presence.
She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, suspended her activities in 2014, and passed away in 2015.
When you want to feel uplifted, please listen to her songs.
spin, spinNishijima Kozue (NANAMUZIKA)
Kozue Nishijima, who served as the vocalist of the female duo music unit Nanamusica, is from Nyuzen, Toyama Prefecture.
As Nanamusica, they made their major debut in 2005 with “Ta-lila ~Boku wo Mitsukete~.” The following year, “Kururi Kururi,” released in 2006, was selected as the theme song for the drama Kobayakawa Nobuki no Koi and became a hit, bringing them wide recognition.
In 2007, Nanamusica announced a hiatus.
Later, in 2016, Nishijima restarted her career as a solo singer-songwriter with the release of the mini-album “Tsuchi no Kaori Sora no Kaori Kimi no Kaori.” She also works as a vocal coach.