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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
