Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists.
When you hear the word “funk,” what kind of music comes to mind?
It’s hard to explain in just a word, isn’t it?
Originally a form of African American Black music, it traces back to the 1960s, with the music pioneered by James Brown, renowned as the “Godfather of Funk,” serving as the blueprint.
Its hallmarks include repeated rhythmic patterns and the subtle groove of 16-beat feel.
Funk made its way to Japan in the late ’70s.
Musicians who were shocked and inspired by the sound began to incorporate it, and over time it was absorbed into pop music as well.
When you hear the word “funky,” you might think of something unconventional, or of someone who sticks to their individuality—that’s cool! Perhaps it also conveys that way of life and attitude.
Enjoy the deep, multifaceted world of Japanese funk, where many elements intertwine!
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Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists (61–70)
THE Wicked SchemeMABOROSHI
MABOROSHI is a unit formed by Mummy-D of RHYMESTER—who leads Japan’s hip-hop scene—and Tomoyasu Takeuchi, the former guitarist of the legendary funk band SUPER BUTTER DOG.
Their concept blends hip-hop with funk and rock into “cool rap with cool guitar riffs,” the kind of idea that gets you excited even before you press play.
Their single “SLOW DOWN!”, released in October 2004, sent shockwaves through the scene at the time.
They went on to create acclaimed works like the classic album Warudakumi.
While they haven’t racked up major awards, their musical influence is immeasurable.
The groove born from the duo’s “warudakumi” (mischief/plotting) might just smash right through genre barriers.
If you love gritty, funky music, this is a unit you absolutely can’t miss.
Come to the Forest of FunkFankuzaurusu
Shikao Suga, whose soulful vocals have captivated fans for years, has unleashed his funk spirit in a band called Funksaurus! Since his debut in 1997, he’s steadily built his career, winning over many hearts with songs for documentary programs that delve into professional work styles.
Launched in February 2023 on the anniversary of his debut, this band is defined by the fiercely powerful groove created with its battle-tested members.
The funky sound you hear on their album “Funksaurus” crackles like sparks flying right before your eyes.
Many listeners can’t help but feel thrilled by Suga’s latest evolution.
F-L-YSPECTRUM
SPECTRUM is a band you’ll never forget once you’ve seen them, staging flamboyant performances in armor or Viking outfits.
Their outlandish appearance often leads people to dismiss them as a novelty act, but it’s surprising to learn they were actually a virtuoso group that even included former members of the backing band for the pop trio Candies.
Debuting in 1979 with “Tomato Ippatsu,” they shocked the music scene with a heavy brass-rock sound reminiscent of Earth, Wind & Fire.
Their active period lasted only about two years, but their talent was the real deal—member Keiichi Oku later won a JASRAC Award as a composer.
The gap between their look and their sound might just make you grin.
Take Me HigherCro-magnon
cro-magnon is an instrumental trio that unleashes floor-shaking grooves, swirling with the heat of live performance.
Their style freely traverses jazz, funk, and hip-hop, nurtured by members who met in Boston, USA, in 1996.
They launched their current lineup in 2004, and their 2006 album CRO-MAGNON garnered fervent support in the club scene.
Even without major awards, the overwhelming energy of their live improvisations is the real deal.
If you’re looking for a raw, funky, no-excuses sound that makes you want to dance till dawn, this is the band for you.
Monkey MagicGodaigo
It’s like listening to the soundtrack of an epic tale! Skillfully weaving in progressive rock and fusion, Godiego opened up new horizons in Japan’s music scene.
After their 1975 debut, the theme song for the TV drama “Saiyuki” became a massive hit.
The ending theme, “Gandhara,” released in 1978, sparked a social phenomenon, staying in the Top 10 of the music charts for seven consecutive weeks.
They went on to perform the theme for the animated film “Galaxy Express 999,” cementing their popularity.
With lyrics that mix English and a groove on par with Western music, they must have been a shock to music fans of the time.
They’re the perfect band for anyone who wants to experience a grand, timeless sound that still shines across the ages.
Please, Time MachineSadisutikku Mika Bando
It’s the legendary band formed by Kazuhiko Kato—central figure of The Folk Crusaders—together with virtuoso musicians like Masayoshi Takanaka and Yukihiro Takahashi.
Their sound, embracing everything from glam rock to funk and fusion, could truly be called cutting-edge.
They debuted with Cycling Boogie in May 1973, and their highly acclaimed album Kurofune ranked 9th in the “100 Greatest Japanese Rock Albums.” They’re also known for Boys & Girls from their reunion featuring Karen Kirishima on vocals, and for their collaboration with Kaela Kimura on a song used in a Kirin Lager Beer commercial.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the authentic sound that laid the foundation of Japanese rock.
NEW ERANulbarich
The refined groove will have your body swaying before you know it! Centered around vocalist JQ, Nulbarich is a captivating band that freely blends soul and funk.
With “New Era” and “Hometown” from their 2016 debut album “Guess Who?”, they quickly won over music fans.
In 2018, their single “Kiss You Back” caused a big stir, earning a prize at the 10th CD Shop Awards and winning Best New Artist Video at the MTV VMAJ.
Their Black music–inspired, feel-good beats and melodies are guaranteed to lift your mood—perfect for a nighttime drive in the city or when you want to create a stylish atmosphere!