Bands and Singers from Yamaguchi Prefecture | From Superstars to Rising New Artists, All in One Go
Yamaguchi Prefecture, which also serves as the gateway between Honshu and Kyushu, is a land rich in nature, home to sights like the Kintai Bridge and the giant limestone cavern Akiyoshido.
Its cuisine is also in the spotlight, featuring seafood such as fugu (pufferfish) and hamo (conger pike), as well as specialties like kawara soba.
In this article, we’ll introduce bands, singers, and artists from Yamaguchi! Yamaguchi has also produced several prime ministers, including Hirobumi Ito and Aritomo Yamagata.
The lineup of artists is truly diverse.
Enjoy discovering new facts as you read—“Wait, they’re from Yamaguchi too?!”
Bands and singers from Yamaguchi Prefecture | From mega-popular artists to rising newcomers, a comprehensive showcase (1–10)
Someday…Shunsuke Kiyokiba
Shunsuke Kiyokiba, who works as a singer-songwriter, is from Ube City in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
He served as a vocalist under the name SHUN in the dance and vocal group EXILE.
He made his solo debut with his first single, “Itsuka…”
celeryYamazaki Masayoshi
Masayoshi Yamazaki, who is active as a singer-songwriter and actor, was born in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, but he is originally from Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture.
His third single, “Celery,” became widely known and one of his signature songs after it was covered by SMAP the following year.
SHOCK!Ayase（YOASOBI）
Ayase, best known as the composer for YOASOBI, hails from Ube City in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
He learned piano from his grandmother as a child, later became the vocalist of a rock band, and then rose to prominence as a Vocaloid producer.
In 2019, he formed YOASOBI with ikura, and their debut track “Racing into the Night” became a huge hit.
Their song “Idol,” used as an anime theme, went on to win the Best Composition Award at the 2023 Japan Record Awards, among numerous other honors.
Centered on J-pop while blending rock and electronic elements, his music is characterized by dramatic developments inspired by stories.
Keep an eye on the tracks he releases under his solo name, Ayase, as well!
We are!kitadani hiroshi
Hiroshi Kitadani, who is active as a singer, is from Susa Town in Yamaguchi Prefecture, which is now part of Hagi City.
He has been appointed a tourism ambassador for Susa Town, Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, his hometown.
“We Are!” was used as the first opening theme for the TV anime One Piece, and it’s a song that could be called the very face of One Piece.
GoodbyeGAO
GAO, who is active as a singer-songwriter, is from Tokuyama, Yamaguchi Prefecture, now Shunan City.
The second single, Sayonara, became a million seller.
GAO also performed Sayonara in their first appearance at the 43rd NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
seamUeno Daiki
Singer-songwriter Daiki Ueno, known for his down-to-earth lyrics and lyrical melodies, hails from Ube City in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
Though he devoted himself to soccer during his school years, he had to give it up due to injury and turned to music.
His talent drew early attention, winning the Grand Prix at a Yamaha audition in his senior year of high school.
He made his major-label debut in 2023 with the album “Shinryoku.” “Love Song,” created during his indie period, spread through social media and has surpassed 100 million total streams.
His music, which delicately portrays everyday scenes and subtle emotions, is recommended for anyone seeking songs that can accompany their daily life.
mellowYamane Koukai
A rising star born in 2001 from Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Koki Yamane is pursuing his own form of expression as a solo singer rooted in J-POP.
His biggest draw is his richly expressive, dance-honed vocals riding on catchy melodies.
He’s rapidly gaining attention—partly due to buzz around the recruitment of new members for timelesz.
He’s also set for his first solo show in Tokyo in October 2025, proving his momentum is real.
He’s the perfect artist for those—especially Gen Z—who want to witness the birth of a new star.