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!
- Recommended Japanese soul bands. Popular bands in Japan.
- Zainichi Funk Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- A masterpiece of Japanese black music. A noteworthy work embodying the soul of black music.
- Funky Vibes: The Past and Present of Funk Music
- A band group that colors Japan’s R&B scene
- [Japanese R&B] Notable Classics & New Tracks, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- FUNKY MONKEY BABYS (Fanmon) greatest and popular songs
- A compilation of cool Japanese rock band songs. Recommended tracks for cover bands.
- [J-Pop] Japanese dance music that makes you want to start dancing
- [Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Tracks of Japanese Rap
- Recommended Japanese punk bands: the punks who represent Japan.
- Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists (11–20)
Mercari FUNKFankuzaurusu
Suga Shikao is one of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters and a music producer.
The funk unit he leads is called Funkzaurus.
The members are Bosszaurus handled by Suga Shikao, Guitarzaurus by Yoshito Tanaka, Basszaurus by Ryuta Sakamoto, and Synthzaurus by Gakushi.
It’s humorous yet easy to grasp, which is great.
I hope you’ll listen while paying attention to their slightly dark, black-humored lyrics—the group’s trademark.
（A BOWL OF）RICEodoru! disuko muromachi
I imagine a lot of people like disco-style funk.
If that sounds like you, I highly recommend a band called Odoru! Disco Muromachi.
They’re a group that constantly turns out danceable, party-like tracks—perfect for when you want to pump up the energy.
While they’ve got the carefree vibe of school days, their arrangements are well-crafted, giving them both a gritty earthiness and a refined sparkle.
Dr.slitHakuchū dōdō Odore Jinrui
Hakuchuudoudou Odore Jinrui is a unit based in Tokyo and Yokohama.
Their theme is “broadcast-prohibited rakugo,” which they use as the basis for their songwriting.
You’ll get it as soon as you listen: the lyrics are rakugo, the musical style is funk, and the vocals are soul.
It’s a style unlike any other, so I think you’ll be shocked—in a good way—when you hear it.
By the way, “broadcast-prohibited rakugo” literally refers to rakugo that can’t be aired on television, and they express that essence without using extreme language.
THE WOMANBimBamBoom
BimBamBoom captivates funk fans with their robust sound.
They are an instrumental band formed mainly by music producer s-ken and drummer Miyoko Yamaguchi.
The lineup features highly skilled artists such as Ayumu Tanaka, Maryne, Aiko Oka, and Misaki Yamoto.
Their performances are as cool as their tracks, so be sure to check out their music videos too.
All the love I haveTHEATRE BROOK
Formed in 1986 around Taiji Sato, this funk band also drew attention when Japan’s top-tier funk drummer Takashi Numazawa joined.
Their sound—born from funky rhythms and slightly rock-leaning guitar—is rough yet groovy.
They’ve frequently appeared at festivals like Fuji Rock and Rising Sun, and are known as a live band with an excellent stage presence.
They marked their 20th debut anniversary in 2015 and are still active today—definitely one to watch!
Time is deadMOUNTAIN MOCHA KILIMANJARO
Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro is an instrumental funk band active on live stages across all music genres, both in Japan and abroad.
While rooted in Black music such as soul and jazz, they deliver the breezy, upbeat sound that is quintessentially funk.
Their unique performance style featuring trumpet and tenor sax is another hallmark, with each instrument blending beautifully.
You can enjoy the accented, repetitive groove that defines funk.
They’re a band packed with the charm of music that feels both nostalgic and new.
Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists (21–30)
Lady BluesLUCKY TAPES
LUCKY TAPES have become popular as a band that plays music mixing genres that symbolize the contemporary Japanese music scene—not only funk, but also city pop and R&B.
At its core, a groove rooted in Black music keeps flowing, and layering Japanese-style melodies on top creates a unique sonic world.
They’re a band you’ll definitely want to listen to when you’re spending a relaxed, unhurried time.