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 (1–10)
Highwayyasagure
Yasagure is a band formed in 1990 with a long and storied career.
They originally started as a trio from Sapporo, but Muku joined on djembe in 2000, and in 2009 the drummer and bassist left, leading to a lineup change.
Their appeal lies in a genreless style that isn’t limited to funk, blending elements of R&B and psychedelia and refusing to be boxed in.
Officially, they describe their sound as an original “Drip Rock.” It’s the kind of music that makes you want to get up and dance.
Goggles, put them on.JAGATARA
Led by Akemi Edo, JAGATARA is a funk rock band that began activities in 1979.
Blending punk, funk, reggae, and afrobeat, they boast a unique sound and a standout presence.
In 1989, they made their major-label debut with the album “Sorekara” on BMG Victor.
Although the band disbanded following the sudden death of Akemi Edo, they resumed activities in 2020—30 years after his passing—under the name Jagatara2020.
They’re a cult favorite in the funk scene, so if you haven’t heard them yet, definitely give them a listen!
Golden LiarBRADIO
BRADIO is a band that’s drawing attention for their look, as if the classic funk scene—passed down continuously since the era of James Brown—has been revived.
Their signature track “Golden Liar” is captivating not so much as straight-up orthodox funk, but as a sound that elevates funk grooves into Japanese rock.
The music video quality is outstanding, and there aren’t many bands you can enjoy so much beyond just the music itself.
Won’t Be LongBaburugamu Burazāzu
Especially in the ’80s, when it comes to the acts that energized Japan’s funk scene, the Bubblegum Brothers come to mind.
Brother Tom and Brother Corn are both active as TV personalities, so some of you may have discovered them that way.
They debuted in 1985, and their 1990 release “WON’T BE LONG” was a massive hit—a classic that remains in the history of Japanese pop music.
I hold a grudge.Zainichi Fanku
Zainichi Funk is a funk band led by Kenta “Hamaken” Hamano—formerly of SAKEROCK, which also included Gen Hoshino, and now active as an actor as well.
They revere James Brown, often called the originator of funk, and convey a gritty, outstanding funk culture from right here in Japan.
In their early days, many of their songs closely replicated Western funk, but lately they’ve been releasing more tracks that shine with distinctly Japanese originality—definitely worth keeping an eye on.
“ENDRECHERI TSUYOSHI DOMOTO” Live Digest MovieENDRECHERI
ENDRECHERI is the solo project of Tsuyoshi Domoto, who is also active as a member of the idol duo KinKi Kids.
He is an artist who delivers a unique funk sound infused with J-pop and blues.
Ranging from neo-soul tracks with an urban vibe to pieces that showcase a full band sound, he writes both lyrics and music himself.
It reveals a different kind of charm from his work as an idol.
You also can’t take your eyes off his one-of-a-kind performances that capitalize on the freedom of funk, one of the most flexible genres in music.
my juiceZuttodzureteruzu
Zutto Zureteruzu rose to popularity as a band that fused Japanese rap with funk.
The lineup brought together a star-studded cast: Dokat Kat, the eldest son of actor Masao Kusakari; the rapper Ryofu (Lu Bu); and the bearded, bespectacled Hama Okamoto.
Although the members were high school students when the band was formed, they delivered a gritty, down-to-earth funk sound that belied their age.