RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

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> (11–20)

Sakura-uchi Taihei (SANABAGUN, Suchmos, Sai)

Sai (SAI) – THE LIVE SHOW at NEW GRAND HOTEL [Trailer]
Sakura-uchi Taihei (SANABAGUN, Suchmos, Sai)

Tahei Sakura-uchi, who performs as the keyboardist Sai for the band Suchmos, is from Himi City in Toyama Prefecture.

He was also a member of the jazz hip-hop group SANABAGUN.

Influenced by his mother, a music teacher, he began playing the piano, got into Western music in junior high school, and delved even deeper into music from there.

As a pianist, he is active in participating in other artists’ works and performing live.

If you want to hear delicate, emotionally rich piano, be sure to follow his activities!

Lens in LoveHayato Kaori

Hayato Kaori, a multi-talented singer who also works as a designer and photographer and appears in commercials and gives lectures, is from Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture.

She began her singing career in 2001 under the name ORHA, and in 2008 she switched to her real name and released her major debut album, “pluma.” In 2013, she performed the opening theme “Koisuru Lens” for the anime Photo Kano.

She is also a radio DJ, truly active across many fields.

Gaze SniperNICO(WHITE SCORPION)

NICO captivates many fans with her sweet smile and passionate performances.

Born in May 2004, she was active as A-Anzupia, a member of the idol group WAgg, but left in October 2022.

She is now drawing attention as a member of WHITE SCORPION, produced by Yasushi Akimoto.

Expectations are rising for what this young talent from Toyama will achieve next.

You won’t want to take your eyes off NICO as she brings a fresh breeze to the idol scene!

Light blue starYoshida Mari

Mari Yoshida / Light Blue Star (1976)
Light blue starYoshida Mari

Mari Yoshida is a Japanese female idol singer who was active from 1976 to 1978.

Since her 1976 debut, hits like “Modoribashi” and “Mizuiro no Hoshi” showcased her clear, transparent voice, captivating many listeners.

The warm, gentle lyrics she sings nestle deep in the listener’s heart, at times stirring nostalgic memories.

Her talent was highly regarded, earning her newcomer awards and other accolades.

Although her career as an idol was brief, the impact she left in that era endures.

Her songs continue to offer fresh discoveries to those who listen, and she is remembered with pride in Toyama Prefecture.

A Question Of HonourTakano Yurie

Japan national soccer team theme song 'A Question Of Honour' Yurie Takano (Yurie Takano)
A Question Of HonourTakano Yurie

Yurie Takano has made a name for herself in the classical music world as a soprano singer whom Toyama Prefecture is proud to claim.

Her portrayal of Dorabella in Così fan tutte at the 2018 NISSAY OPERA overwhelmed the audience the moment the curtain rose.

She graduated at the top of her class from Tokyo College of Music and also studied abroad in Boston.

That rich education surely lends depth to her music.

In particular, her title role in Carmen in 2021 was a performance that showcased the power and passion of Takano’s voice.

With a realism and delicacy that made it feel as if the story had leapt into real life, she captivated us.

Afro BlueCHIKO

CHIKO 「Afro Blue」(New Album)
Afro BlueCHIKO

Strictly speaking, she was born in Chiba Prefecture, but since she has lived in Toyama Prefecture from the age of three to the present, we’ll introduce her here.

This is CHIKO, a singer with a father from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and a Japanese mother.

She captivates with a soulful voice that resonates with the heart.

After studying vocals at a music school, she began performing as a singer-songwriter accompanying herself.

If you live in Toyama Prefecture, you’ve probably heard her on the radio—she’s a multi-talented figure who also serves as an MC on various programs.

Artists from Toyama Prefecture <bands, idols, singer-songwriters, musicians> (ages 21–30)

A flawless rock ’n’ rollerGurēto Kōgen, Rabitto Ōmori (Arajin)

The rock band Aladdin, which sparked a huge boom with their hit “Perfectly Flawless Rock ’n’ Roller,” has two members from Toyama City in Toyama Prefecture: vocalist Great Takahara and bassist Rabbit Omori.

Formed in a university folk song club, Aladdin debuted in 1981 and disbanded in 1983.

Afterward, Great Takahara returned home, ran a company, and, under the name Ani Takahara, worked as a local celebrity and composer.

He also produced works such as “Shuchishin,” born from the variety show Quiz! Hexagon II.

Rabbit Omori is likewise active in Toyama Prefecture as a radio personality and musician.