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)
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?
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.
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.
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!
quick sandŌsaka=Monorēru
They’re like the raw heat of 1970s America carried straight into the present! Formed in 1992, Osaka Monaurail is a funk orchestra Japan proudly presents to the world, inheriting the soul of James Brown for modern times.
Since their 2000 debut album, “What It Is… What It Was,” they’ve consistently delivered tight, heavyweight grooves.
Their prowess crosses borders—since 2006 they’ve performed in over 15 countries, especially across Europe.
Their recent role handling music for the stage production “The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui,” starring Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, is still fresh in memory.
If you want to move your body without overthinking it, why not dive into the vortex of sound they create?