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 (41–50)
I am super starKodama Sentoraru Suteshon
Kodama Central Station was formed around Kodamax, a former member of the visual-kei band Kneuklid Romance.
Kodamax’s sweet, maturely alluring vocals are wonderful, and the band’s sound—reminiscent of J-pop from the ’80s and ’90s—is really cool.
The song in the video is their debut single, released in 2007.
ENDLESS SUMMER NUDEMagokoro Burazāzu
Magokoro Brothers is a band formed by YO-KING and Hidetoshi Sakurai in 1988 within a music club at Waseda University.
Their signature song “Summer Nude” blends pop and funk to perfection, with a refreshing sound and tight rhythm that evokes the feeling of summer.
Although they went on hiatus after their 2001 concert at Nippon Budokan, they resumed activities in 2005.
Both members also perform as solo artists, so be sure to give them a listen!
KazaanaFutarime no Jaina
The second Jaina from a band that overwhelms listeners with a big ensemble sound, complete with horn section and keyboards.
Despite the catchy band name, their adult-oriented funk sound and cool fashion create a striking contrast.
This fast-paced track combines powerfully played horns with a sleek groove, making it a superb, feel-good tune you can dance to.
party people2gMONKEYZ
2gMONKEYZ is a funky band from Hokkaido.
Lead vocalist Yuguchi’s straightforward voice dances along with the light, nimble instrumentation.
The song in the video is from their first album, “MONKEY WORKS,” released in 2013.
Their uplifting sound—reminiscent of SUPER BUTTER DOG—is especially appealing.
Listening to the energetic vocals is infectious and puts you in a good mood.
MUSICThe Gypsies
Formed in 2009 in Wakayama with vocalist BIG Matsumoto as the frontman.
They’ve got mood to spare, but it’s the supremely comfortable groove that makes them ultra-funky! BIG Matsumoto’s powerful, soulful, and slightly wet vocal tone has shades of Tortoise Matsumoto, so they come recommended for fans of Ulfuls as well.
They even have a fun track where they shout “xiaolongbao,” and you can really feel that they’re enjoying the music—it’s a great vibe! Centered in their hometown of Wakayama, they’re active across the Kansai region, aiming to be a bridge to funk—a genre still relatively unfamiliar in Japan.
It’s kinda funky.THE NEW BEADS
A long-established funk band from Fukui Prefecture.
Guitarist Tomoyasu Takeuchi, formerly of SUPER BUTTER DOG, has supported numerous artists including Tsuyoshi Domoto’s solo project ENDRECHERI and Ringo Sheena, and he’s active in various other bands in parallel as well.
Their style leans into disco and a danceable kind of funk that makes your body move before you know it, with a touch of adult sophistication and exotic flair.
The hot, passionate performances of vocalist Kaoru Ueda—who is also a wind ensemble instructor—create an even more electrifying atmosphere!
In time for the danceOmoide Yarō A Chīmu
A soul band that brings a laid-back groove to funk up your everyday life! Omoide Yaro A Team was formed in 2009 by a group of art school friends.
Centered on soul and funk while weaving in a variety of genres, they steadily built a following and released their first album, “WEEKEND SOUL BAND,” in 2015.
In 2019, they gained widespread recognition after creating the opening theme for a popular TV drama.
They also make their shows welcoming for everyone by incorporating sign language interpreters—another part of their appeal.
Their warm, feel-good music naturally gets your heart and body moving, making it perfect for anyone looking for a gentle soundtrack to accompany everyday life.