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)
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!
Galaxy Express 999 Melomelo Punch Round 11Merome
Yamagata is a band based around Yonezawa that hosts an annual local outdoor festival called “Meromero Punch.” Influenced by groups like Kome Kome Club, they often perform songs with a pop-funk flavor.
In this video, they cover Kome Kome Club’s classic “Galaxy Express 999,” collaborating with traditional local dances—Hanagasa Odori and Suzume Odori—to add flair to Yamagata’s nighttime outdoor festival.
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?
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.
INCREDIBLEDENIMS
DENIMS is a four-piece band from Osaka that lays down feel-good sounds! Their music is rooted in funk and blues, yet it’s characterized by a delightful mash-up that pulls in hip-hop and city pop as well.
Since releasing their first nationally distributed mini-album “Daily use” in 2015, they’ve been on a remarkable roll.
In 2020, their track “I’m” was chosen for FM802’s heavy rotation, and in 2019 they provided a song for Coming Century—proof of their solid credentials.
They’ve even drawn 800 people to their own festival, ODD SAFARI.
Their sound somehow feels loose and earthy yet stylish, and it might be perfect if you’re looking for music that gently fits into your everyday life.
AMBITIOUSHOUND DOG
With vocals that feel like a cry from the soul and an energetic stage presence, HOUND DOG set listeners’ hearts ablaze! Formed in 1976 around Kohei Otomo, they’re an indispensable band in the history of Japan’s rock scene.
While rooted in rock, their music spans a wide range, from heartfelt pop to moving ballads.
They debuted in 1980 with the single “Arashi no Kinyobi,” and in 1985 they catapulted to nationwide fame with their signature song “ff (Fortissimo),” which was featured in a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial.
Their true essence is in their live performances! In 1989, they even set a legend by playing 15 consecutive days at Nippon Budokan.
When you need the courage to face adversity, their music will surely be a powerful source of support.
Dancing All Nightmonta & burazāzu
Their husky, soulful vocals will send shivers down your spine! Monta & Brothers is a legendary band that took Japan by storm in the 1980s, led by frontman Yoshinori Monta.
Their sound, rooted in rock and R&B while embracing the catchiness of kayōkyoku (Japanese pop), is seriously cool.
Their 1980 smash hit “Dancing All Night” won the Gold Prize at the 22nd Japan Record Awards and earned them a spot on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Their duet with Junko Ohashi, “Natsu Onna Sonia,” also made waves as a cosmetics commercial song, showcasing their wide-ranging impact.
If you want to feel the fiery vocals and tight band groove that embody Japan’s funky soul, this is a band you absolutely must hear!