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)
Devil’s Manner FunkadelicFunk Discussion Brothers
Ryoichi Yamada, the vocalist of the band Hamanun—formed in 2004 and known for its heavy sound—went on to form Buzz Mothers after Hamanun disbanded.
This new band was created together with Shin Shigematsu, the bassist who belongs to Buzz Mothers.
The Funk Discussion Brothers reportedly don’t have a fixed lineup, embracing a playful, free-spirited style.
They combine a solid edge reminiscent of their previous bands with a one-of-a-kind funkiness.
Morissy, the guitarist and keyboardist from Awesome City Club, sometimes joins as well!
Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists (51–60)
69 (six-nine)Kyonyū Mandara Ōkoku
Kyonyu Mandala Kingdom is a rock band from Osaka Prefecture, formed in 1999 by Noriyuki Ikoma, who calls himself the Guru.
Vocalist and self-styled Guru Noriyuki Ikoma draws influence from every genre—metal, funk, pop, techno, punk, and heavy rock—and their distinctive sound features elements like poppy synths layered over heavy guitar and bass.
Most of the lyrics don’t carry specific meaning, and the way the songs are enjoyed through rhythm and performance might be similar to funk!
mirror ballMasaru & Piichipai
Masaru & Peach Pie, led by Masaru☆Vibes, is a funk band based in Sendai known for its powerful performances by an 11-member lineup.
In 2017, they celebrated their 10th anniversary and released the commemorative single “Sayonara Urara.” Their sound blends danceable rhythms with mellow tones, often described as jazz-funk or acid jazz.
They’re also renowned for their live performances and are supported by fans across a wide range of ages.
Highly recommended for fans of Jamiroquai and Incognito—give them a listen!
Grave of MusicSekaiichi
Sekaiichi is a trio renowned for each member’s exceptional musicianship.
They deliver warm songs to listeners, singing about everyday happiness and familiar scenes.
Their work spans a wide range—from rock that leans into their signature sound to polished pop.
At the core of their groovy ensemble playing lies a distinctly funk-driven sensibility.
The brisk guitar and pulsing, undulating bass lines will have your body swaying before you know it.
It’s a funk band whose stylish sound also channels the passionate appeal of rock.
Probably Maybe Meiji feat. Ah, Tagirentarōrekishi
Rekishi is a music project that delivers top-tier funk with Japanese history as its theme.
It’s the solo moniker of Takafumi Ikeda, also known as the former keyboardist of SUPER BUTTER DOG, and his groovy musicianship is second to none.
The project began in 2007 with the album “Rekishi,” and the tracks—featuring star guests like Ringo Sheena and Daichi Miura performing under playful “Rekishi names”—are brimming with a sense of fun.
Ikeda’s entertainer spirit is astounding, too: for the first pressing, he hand-drew the cover art for 10,000 CDs.
Even if history isn’t your strong suit, once you experience Rekishi’s music, those tricky figures and events will start to feel endearing.
It’s a project that will make you want to dive into the world of history.
TruthICE
ICE is a group formed by guitarist Kazuyuki Miyauchi and vocalist Mayumi Kunioka.
Miyauchi, originally a studio musician, drew attention for his exceptional guitar technique, while Kunioka became a sensation for her sensual, powerhouse vocals.
Their music is characterized by a foundation in soul and funk, arranged with a more danceable edge and blended with a distinctly ’90s sound.
If you’re looking for danceable ’90s funk, ICE is highly recommended!
hurricaneShaneruzu
The vocal group “Shanels,” famous for their blackface look adopted to convey Black music to Japanese audiences.
This track has a surf and oldies vibe, and the balance of that style with Japanese lyrics is intriguing—it sparked a huge boom at the time.
While their appearance tends to draw the attention, their true appeal lies in the beauty of their solid choral work and their vocal prowess.
