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[Admiration] Cute! A roundup of popular Japanese music singers and artists

There’s that classic route to becoming a fan: you hear a song by chance, fall in love with it, and then start liking the artist who sings it.

And once you become a fan, no matter what they do, you can’t help but think they’re cute… I totally get that feeling!

I guess that’s what we call having an “oshi,” right?

In this article, I’m going to introduce lots of Japanese singers who are incredibly cute and full of charm.

And of course—though this hardly needs saying—every one of them is also highly skilled as a vocalist!

[Admiration] Cute! A roundup of popular Japanese music singers and artists (11–20)

forget-me-notPORIN(Awesome City Club)

Awesome City Club / Wasurena (MUSIC VIDEO)
forget-me-notPORIN(Awesome City Club)

Singer PORIN captivates listeners with her coquettish vocals.

As the vocalist of the three-piece band Awesome City Club, she is one of the defining artists of city pop in the 2010s and 2020s.

In their smash hit “Wasurena,” her supple and beautiful flow resonated with many people.

She also pursues solo work, showcasing her versatility by appearing as a guest vocalist on GLAY’s track “BETTY BLUE.” Her unique fashion, which makes the most of her cute looks, is also worth noting!

Eaten loveaiko

aiko - “Eaten Love” music video
Eaten loveaiko

Singer-songwriter aiko is known for her cute looks and approachable vibe, often sporting a casual jeans-and-T-shirt style.

With numerous hit songs like “Hanabi,” “Kabutomushi,” and “Boyfriend,” chances are you’ve sung one of her tracks at karaoke at least once.

While her music feels friendly and accessible, she’s said to have an uncompromising commitment to her sound production.

If you’re looking for songs to listen to when you’re in love or as a couple, be sure to check her out!

Snow BlossomNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima – Snow Flower / THE FIRST TAKE
Snow BlossomNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima is hugely popular with people of all genders for her mysterious aura and charisma.

She made her acting debut in the Fuji TV drama “A Love Song Full of Scars,” while simultaneously performing the show’s theme song “STARS,” which thrust her into the spotlight.

Her signature ballad “Yuki no Hana,” in which she delivers soaring high notes with heartfelt precision, was recently adapted into a film of the same title and became a hot topic.

While she’s renowned for her ballads, her rock-tinged tracks—like “GLAMOROUS SKY,” the theme song for the anime/manga NANA by Ai Yazawa—are just as compelling, so be sure to give them a listen!

cInoue Sonoko

Sonoko Inoue – I Love You.
cInoue Sonoko

Singer-songwriter Sonoko Inoue, who is also active as an actress in dramas and films, has won popularity especially among teens with her charming smile and delightful vocals.

Having performed in live houses since childhood, she is known for her strong singing ability and guitar technique.

One of her appeals is her wide musical range, from acoustic tracks to colorful pop.

Why not let yourself be soothed by the sight of her singing with her clear, radiant looks?

an open secretShiina Ringo

Shiina Ringo – Public Secret
an open secretShiina Ringo

Ringo Sheena, who pursues a singular musical expression and enjoys a charismatic following.

With literary lyrics, a distinctive rolled-r singing style, and a unique aesthetic—like cosplay-inspired outfits—she has established the Ringo Sheena brand through her unmistakable style and musical sensibility.

Songs like “Koufukuron (A View of Happiness),” “Koko de Kiss Shite,” and “Honnō” feature lyrics and melodies that stick in your head after just one listen—an irresistible part of her appeal.

Since 2004, she has also been active as the vocalist of the rock band Tokyo Jihen.

Highly recommended for those who want music unbound by trends and sound you can truly immerse yourself in!

Gum-Gum Girlkyarī pamyu pamyu

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu – GUM GUM GIRL Official Music Video
Gum-Gum Girlkyarī pamyu pamyu

Singer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is known for styling Harajuku’s aomojis (blue-magazine) fashion in her own unique way.

Active as both a singer and a model, she’s characterized by her doll-like cuteness.

With colorful tracks that incorporate elements of electronica and pop—such as Tsukematsukeru and Fashion Monster—she has won fans all over the world.

Beyond her work as an artist, she’s active across commercials, TV dramas, and films—you won’t be able to take your eyes off her! You’ll surely be captivated by her girly vibe, as if she stepped right out of a 2D world.

[Admiration] Cute! A roundup of popular Japanese music singers and artists (21–30)

Sentimental KissShio Reira

Reira Shio - Sentimental Kiss [Official Music Video]
Sentimental KissShio Reira

Reira Ushio is a rising singer-songwriter known for her distinctive worldbuilding and clear, crystalline vocals.

Drawing on her literary training at university, she’s gaining attention for meticulous word choice and rich musicality.

She debuted with a digital single in September 2021 and has continued to release melodic tracks.

In August 2023, she achieved her long-awaited major debut with Sony Music Labels.

A song used as BGM on an ABEMA dating show reached No.

1 on Spotify’s Viral Chart.

In August 2024, she released her first EP on CD, and in the fall she captivated fans nationwide with a Tokyo-Nagoya-Osaka tour and an acoustic tour.

A true all-rounder who handles everything from writing and composing to arranging and producing, she actively engages with fans on social media.

Her lyrics vividly capture the delicate emotions of youth, and her ear-catching melodies are sure to resonate with listeners.