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 (’71–’80)
Horn Love ~Big Brother, Try Harderfumidō
Formed in Fukuoka in 2000, they made their major-label debut in 2004.
The following year, their song “Nakimushi no Uta” was selected for heavy rotation on radio stations and became a smash hit, spreading their name.
They have many melodic, warm tracks.
While their music often has a mellow vibe, playful wordplay like in “Klaxon Love” is funky and fun! The vocalist Wata, known for his trademark hat, writes the lyrics and music and serves as the band’s leader.
Since 2011, Wata has also been active as a solo artist, including serving as a support member for Rekishi.
Dance at Nightfurenzu
Friends is a five-member band formed in 2015, based in the Shinsen area.
Built on a foundation of pop, they’ve drawn attention for a distinctive sound that fuses funk, disco, R&B, and more.
They’ve released numerous works including the albums “Baby Tanjou!,” “Con-Paach!,” and “SOLAR,” captivating many listeners with bright, catchy melodies and playful lyrics.
Originally planned as a one-off project for keyboardist Hirose Hirose’s birthday, the group launched full-scale activities thanks to the members’ strong chemistry.
Their live performances, which prioritize a sense of unity with the audience, embody the pure joy of music and are entertainment in its truest form.
This is a band especially recommended for those who want to share energy and smiles through music.
LOVE COMES AND GOESSAL
SAL is a rock band that was active mainly in the Kansai region from around 2008.
They cite influences like Led Zeppelin, Happy End, and Kirinji, and you can feel a certain stylish vibe within their rock sound.
They performed mainly at clubs and live houses, releasing two albums and one single.
Unfortunately, it seems they disbanded after their July 2016 show, but judging from their website, it’s possible they’re still selling their releases by mail order.
If you’re interested, why not get in touch?
How about two of them?Miyao Susumu to Nihon no Shachō
Miyao Susumu and the Presidents of Japan is a funk band formed in 1986 in a Waseda University music club.
They became the 10th Ikaten King on Miyake Yūji’s Ikasu Band Tengoku and later made their major-label debut on what is now Ki/oon Records.
Their signature song, “Nimai de Dōda,” is a mid-tempo funk track with a bouncy, rolling groove, known for its unique lyrics and lively stage performances.
The members still keep the band going alongside their day jobs, so if you’re interested, why not check out one of their live shows?
NEKO(Remix) feat.Ryohu/MUDOKAMOTO’S
OKAMOTO’S is a rock band captivating fans with a sound that explodes with ’90s-born sensibilities.
The four members, who formed the band as middle school classmates, freely blend a wide range of styles—rooted in rock but spanning funk, garage, and more.
They made their major debut in 2010, and it’s well known that in March of the same year they performed at SXSW in the U.S., becoming the youngest Japanese male act to do so.
Their song chosen as the opening theme for a popular anime became a catalyst that rapidly spread their groovy appeal.
Their curiosity knows no bounds, as seen in narrative-driven works like the album “OPERA.” If you’re after a muscular band sound and grooves that make you want to dance, you should experience them at least once!
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.
TarirariraAWAYOKUBA
AWAYOKUBA is a four-piece funk band from Osaka and a highly skilled group that won the Grand Prix at FM802’s “MUSIC CHALLENGE 2009” in 2010.
Their sound, which makes you want to start dancing, is performed in an orthodox funk style, yet it also carries the heat and power of punks.
In 2011, they released their first album, “AWAYOKUBA,” and went on to perform at Fuji Rock and RUSH BALL.
Unfortunately, the band disbanded in 2012 after their keyboardist Ando left, but if you want to feel some fiery funk, they’re a band you should definitely check out!