Singers, bands, and artists known for their groove. Killer tunes that make your body move.
There are those songs that make your body start swaying before you even realize it, right?
The groove created by the rhythm of the instruments and vocals gives you such a fun experience!
In this article, I’ll take a close look at artists known for that infectious sense of groove.
From knockout-level, hard-hitting grooves to comfortably mellow vibes, I’ve picked tracks that lean toward Black music and city pop flavors.
Find the groove-driven artists that match your taste!
- Packed with slap groove vibes! A collection of songs with cool bass
- Male singers with great voices: a collection of cool, seductive vocals
- A masterpiece of Japanese black music. A noteworthy work embodying the soul of black music.
- A male singer with exceptional vocal skills: a powerhouse performer who captivates with volume, technique, and expressiveness.
- Hype to the max! Party songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- A Japanese female singer with excellent singing ability; an outstanding vocalist.
- A high-energy band number! A hype, crowd-pleasing track with male vocals.
- [Gets you grooving] Upbeat Japanese songs. Tracks that make you feel happy.
- [Crystal Voice] An artist with a clear, translucent singing voice.
- [Overwhelming Vocal Ability] A Compilation of Popular Female Singers
- [Japanese R&B] Notable Classics & New Tracks, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B
- Recommended love songs sung by male artists for the yutori generation
- Hype songs sung by male artists that are recommended for Gen Z
Singers, bands, and artists known for their groove. Body-moving killer tunes (21–30)
Like a Flourishing Flower -Neo Visualizm-MIYAVI
The “Samurai Guitarist,” who’s gaining worldwide attention for his unique slap technique played with fingers instead of a pick.
In fact, his vocal expressiveness is equally outstanding—whatever he sings carries a sensual allure.
Influenced by his slap style, his singing has a powerful sense of rhythm, creating a seamless fusion that almost feels odd without a guitar in hand.
His English pronunciation is natural and world-class, and he’s the passionate type who captivates with groove.
While he has many songs in English, during his long-hair era most of his tracks were in Japanese, so if you’re thinking “I want to try singing one,” you’re sure to find a favorite.
In any case, he’s incredibly cool and stylish!
relivetoconoma
Since their formation in 2008, toconoma—a four-piece instrumental band—has made a striking impression with their performances at major festivals.
They operate as a “weekend band,” with all members holding full-time jobs.
Their genre-free dance music, which blends each member’s sensibilities, is irresistibly cool.
You’ll be captivated by their technical playing that makes the instruments feel as if they’re singing.
The richly groovy ensemble will get your heart dancing—tracks like “relive,” with its crisp, cool chopping guitar and funky, tightly notched bass lines, will have your head nodding before you know it.
tropical nightRIP SLYME
RIP SLYME is a cheerful, feel-good group that brought Japanese hip-hop into living rooms across the country.
Building on hip-hop and blending in funk and soul, they made their major debut in 2001 and quickly shot to stardom with hits like “Rakuen Baby.” Their classic album TOKYO CLASSIC is famous for being the first Japanese hip-hop album to sell over one million copies.
With multiple MCs trading light, playful wordplay over a DJ’s funky tracks, they weave together an exquisite groove.
Even listeners unfamiliar with hip-hop will find themselves effortlessly swaying to this irresistible vibe.
Amber-Hued City, Morning of Shanghai Crabskururi
Quruli is a band that has relentlessly pursued the possibilities of music since forming in Kyoto in 1996.
Rooted in rock, their ever-shifting sound incorporates diverse genres such as jazz, classical, and electronica.
They made their major-label debut in 1998 with the single “Tokyo,” and cemented their popularity with songs like “Bara no Hana,” which was also the theme song for the film Josee, the Tiger and the Fish.
The poetic vocals of Shigeru Kishida and the supple bass lines woven by Masashi Sato create a truly one-of-a-kind groove—at times gently swaying the body, at times offering an intellectually thrilling excitement.
Since 2007, they have also hosted their annual festival, Kyoto Ongaku Hakurankai (Kyoto Music Expo), among many other activities.
They’re the perfect band for listeners who want both the mellow sway reminiscent of city pop and Black music and the pleasures of experimental sound.
A slight fever in springKubota Kai
Singer-songwriter/rapper Kubota Kai emerged from the freestyle rap world and burst onto the scene.
Grounded in hip-hop while blending in R&B and rock, his literary word choices shine.
After formally launching his career with the 2019 EP “Myōjō,” he drew attention as songs released on YouTube surpassed 3 million views, and in 2021 he completed the album “Raikō.” He’s also known for the anecdote of winning an NHK show’s competition with only three months of rap experience.
He has many tie-ins, including “Tonari,” the theme song for the film Side by Side: The Person Next to Me, and “gear5,” the opening theme for the drama Hakobiya.
His mellow groove, woven from words and sound, is truly one of a kind—perfect for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in emotionally rich music.
Life is wonderfulRickie-G
Singer-songwriter Rickie-G captivates with a sun-like warmth and an organic groove that naturally makes your body sway.
While rooted in reggae, his sound blends elements of soul and R&B from Black music.
He made his major debut in July 2007 with the single “Tobihikō,” followed by his first full album “am 08:59” in 2008.
The groove woven from performance skills honed on the streets since age 15 and his warm, soaring vocals is truly one of a kind.
His positive messages—singing about the beauty of life and the joys of everyday living—continue to draw many fans.
He’s an artist we recommend for anyone who wants to surrender to a comfortable rhythm and soak in a peaceful vibe!
Every One MinuteMononkuru
Mononkul is a songwriting duo consisting of vocalist Sara Yoshida and bassist Ryuta Tsunoda, whose uncle is the legendary H☆RO TSUNODA.
Formed in 2011 while they were active as jazz musicians, they fuse jazz with R&B and other influences to create a stylish, pop-leaning sound—highly recommended if you’re looking for something chic.
Their tie-in work has been growing year by year, including Every One Minute for Citizen xC, Higher for the SONY Xperia 1 IV, and 2022’s salvation, drawing increasing attention.
The groove born from tight, rhythmic bass and a cute vocal is truly one of a kind.
Their pleasing sonorities, fashionable beats, and masterful balance of stillness and motion are irresistibly cool!