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 (51–60)
Oh Happy DayEscalators
The band that singer-songwriter ZOOCO belonged to is Escalators.
They made their debut in the UK in 1994 and, in the same year, made their domestic debut on Columbia Triad—an internationally minded funk band.
ZOOCO’s powerful vocals and Hiroyuki Kawanishi’s tight, groovy bass create a funky sound that feels anything but typically Japanese.
Their mini-album “Winter Melody,” released under the production of the British acid jazz band Incognito, is a funky yet mellow classic!
The theme of The OwlsThe Owls
They’re a large ensemble that mainly plays jazz-funk, performing in jazz cities like Yokohama.
The drums and percussion lay down a lively groove, with the horn section riding on top—fun to listen to and to watch.
The husky, masculine vocals are cool, too! It’s upbeat, feel-good funk music that makes you want to clap along.
VIPRega
Rega is a four-piece instrumental band formed by Ryuji Ide, Akira Yotsumoto, Akinobu Aoki, and Takafumi Miyake.
Akira Yotsumoto has since left the band.
Despite having no vocals, their hallmark is a pleasant, song-like melody that feels as if you can hear a voice.
They’ve performed at festivals such as RUSH BALL and even headlined the pre-festival event at Fuji Rock, showcasing their skill.
With live performances that seem to express overflowing emotion, they captivate fans as a much-talked-about instrumental band.
NEKO(Remix) feat.Ryohu/MUDOKAMOTO’S
OKAMOTO’S is a rock band captivating fans with a sound that explodes with ’90s-born sensibilities.
The four members, who formed the band as middle school classmates, freely blend a wide range of styles—rooted in rock but spanning funk, garage, and more.
They made their major debut in 2010, and it’s well known that in March of the same year they performed at SXSW in the U.S., becoming the youngest Japanese male act to do so.
Their song chosen as the opening theme for a popular anime became a catalyst that rapidly spread their groovy appeal.
Their curiosity knows no bounds, as seen in narrative-driven works like the album “OPERA.” If you’re after a muscular band sound and grooves that make you want to dance, you should experience them at least once!
Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists (61–70)
Yellow Soul ForceMOUNTAIN MOCHA KILIMANJARO
A track by the sophisticated, adult funk band Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro.
I’m blown away by their musicianship, which effortlessly delivers a humorous, playful tune.
Every instrument is top-tier—this band serves up a jazz-funk number with a level that feels beyond typical Japanese acts.
Sink in and let yourself be swept away by the waves of sound.
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?
Horn Love ~Big Brother, Try Harderfumidō
Formed in Fukuoka in 2000, they made their major-label debut in 2004.
The following year, their song “Nakimushi no Uta” was selected for heavy rotation on radio stations and became a smash hit, spreading their name.
They have many melodic, warm tracks.
While their music often has a mellow vibe, playful wordplay like in “Klaxon Love” is funky and fun! The vocalist Wata, known for his trademark hat, writes the lyrics and music and serves as the band’s leader.
Since 2011, Wata has also been active as a solo artist, including serving as a support member for Rekishi.
