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)
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!
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.
INCREDIBLEDENIMS
DENIMS is a four-piece band from Osaka that lays down feel-good sounds! Their music is rooted in funk and blues, yet it’s characterized by a delightful mash-up that pulls in hip-hop and city pop as well.
Since releasing their first nationally distributed mini-album “Daily use” in 2015, they’ve been on a remarkable roll.
In 2020, their track “I’m” was chosen for FM802’s heavy rotation, and in 2019 they provided a song for Coming Century—proof of their solid credentials.
They’ve even drawn 800 people to their own festival, ODD SAFARI.
Their sound somehow feels loose and earthy yet stylish, and it might be perfect if you’re looking for music that gently fits into your everyday life.
Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists (61–70)
THE Wicked SchemeMABOROSHI
MABOROSHI is a unit formed by Mummy-D of RHYMESTER—who leads Japan’s hip-hop scene—and Tomoyasu Takeuchi, the former guitarist of the legendary funk band SUPER BUTTER DOG.
Their concept blends hip-hop with funk and rock into “cool rap with cool guitar riffs,” the kind of idea that gets you excited even before you press play.
Their single “SLOW DOWN!”, released in October 2004, sent shockwaves through the scene at the time.
They went on to create acclaimed works like the classic album Warudakumi.
While they haven’t racked up major awards, their musical influence is immeasurable.
The groove born from the duo’s “warudakumi” (mischief/plotting) might just smash right through genre barriers.
If you love gritty, funky music, this is a unit you absolutely can’t miss.
Take Me HigherCro-magnon
cro-magnon is an instrumental trio that unleashes floor-shaking grooves, swirling with the heat of live performance.
Their style freely traverses jazz, funk, and hip-hop, nurtured by members who met in Boston, USA, in 1996.
They launched their current lineup in 2004, and their 2006 album CRO-MAGNON garnered fervent support in the club scene.
Even without major awards, the overwhelming energy of their live improvisations is the real deal.
If you’re looking for a raw, funky, no-excuses sound that makes you want to dance till dawn, this is the band for you.
NEW ERANulbarich
The refined groove will have your body swaying before you know it! Centered around vocalist JQ, Nulbarich is a captivating band that freely blends soul and funk.
With “New Era” and “Hometown” from their 2016 debut album “Guess Who?”, they quickly won over music fans.
In 2018, their single “Kiss You Back” caused a big stir, earning a prize at the 10th CD Shop Awards and winning Best New Artist Video at the MTV VMAJ.
Their Black music–inspired, feel-good beats and melodies are guaranteed to lift your mood—perfect for a nighttime drive in the city or when you want to create a stylish atmosphere!