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 (1–10)
Soulmate tonighttsuru
When you think of a funk band, you probably picture a large outfit with a horn section, right? But the band Tsurun is actually a so-called three-piece: just guitar, bass, and drums.
It’s no exaggeration to say that there’s no other band besides Tsurun that can make you dance this much with such a simple setup.
Their hallmark is a free-spirited approach and catchy melodies that aren’t confined to the traditional funk format.
AwayScoobie Do
If you’re into old-school sounds, I highly recommend a band called Scoobie Do.
They’re a four-piece funk band that has even collaborated with hip-hop artists.
They study funk from a variety of angles, and have established a new side of funk that not only makes you want to dance but also draws you in as a deep listening experience.
Be sure to check out their gritty, no-sequencer, purely live-performed tracks.
Shake Hip!kome kome CLUB
They were pioneers of Japanese funk, and for many people this band was likely the first to make them aware of “funk.” With hot, groovy, and sexy songs, a unique persona, and unmatched musicianship, they’re a truly one-of-a-kind, great Japanese funk band.
Their live performances were also breathtaking—I really wish I could have experienced that party-like atmosphere at least once.
Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists (11–20)
Sayonara ColorSUPER BUTTER DOG
SUPER BUTTER DOG is the band that Takashi Nagazumi, known as Hanaregumi, and Takafumi Ikeda, known as Rekishi, belonged to.
It was formed in 1994 by Nagazumi and guitarist Tomoyasu Takeuchi, and they made their major-label debut in 1997 with the album “FREEWAY.” The 2001 release “Sayonara COLOR” is a poignant, ballad-like masterpiece, and its duet version with Kiyoshiro Imawano also drew attention.
As one of Japan’s leading funk bands, they’re a must-listen!
STAY TUNESuchmos
Suchmos became popular as a band that sparked the city pop boom in Japan around 2016.
In addition to city pop, they also incorporate elements of acid jazz and funk jazz, and many people are likely drawn to their funky rhythms that exude a mature allure.
Recently, they’ve been venturing not only into city pop but also into more psychedelic genres, so be sure to check them out.
fake!fake!Karasu wa masshiro
Karasu wa Masshiro desu was a band that forged a new generation of funk, armed with an adorable singing voice and an energetic sound.
Once you hear them, their musicality and unique world seize your ears and won’t let go.
Their pop melodies are sure to resonate especially with younger listeners.
The song in the video is from their 2014 mini-album Onso-ku Merry-Go-Round.
Sadly, they disbanded in 2017.
I think, therefore I amFLYING KIDS
FLYING KIDS, who made their debut from the show “Miyake Yūji’s Ikasu Band Heaven,” which sparked the second band boom, are one of Japan’s leading funk bands.
They also played a key role in bringing funk—still relatively unknown at the time—to a wider mainstream audience.
The band name “FLYING KIDS” was taken from Tatsuro Yamashita’s song of the same title.
Their drum-and-bass ensemble, the very essence of funk, generates a solid, heavy groove that feels great to listen to.
Although they disbanded once in 1998, they reunited in 2007 and have continued performing as a veteran band—so be sure to give them a listen!