[2026] Half-Japanese Singers/Vocalists: Artists with Overseas Heritage [Active and Notable in Japan]
When you think of half-Japanese or quarter-Japanese singers active in Japan’s music scene, which artists come to mind? Artists with diverse roots are showcasing their talents across genres like rock, pop, and hip-hop.
Their unique sensibilities and expressive power enrich the hearts of listeners.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of artists with overseas heritage, regardless of genre.
We’re also featuring many Gen Z artists, so whether you already have favorites or are looking to discover new talent, you’re sure to enjoy the journey.
Find someone who can add color to your musical life.
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[2026] Half-Japanese Singers: Artists with Overseas Roots Active and Trending in Japan (11–20)
MAYDAY (feat. Ryo from Crystal Lake)Masato
Masato is a singer of Japanese-American heritage who thrives on the global stage, wielding his bilingual sensibilities as a powerful asset.
Hailing from Nagoya, he made his major debut in 2008 with the single “Fiction” as the frontman of the loud rock band coldrain.
He has stuck to an all-English-lyrics style and shown his versatility by contributing to the soundtrack of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen.
In October 2022, he celebrated the band’s 15th anniversary with a triumphant show at Yokohama Arena, captivating the audience with an overwhelming performance.
He also serves as a director for a fashion brand, showcasing outstanding taste beyond music.
Masato masterfully moves between fierce shouts and sweet melodies—an irresistible artist for fans of Western rock and anyone who wants to feel the heat of a live show!
MinestroneWez Atlas
Wez Atlas is a bilingual artist with both Japanese and American backgrounds, born in Oita Prefecture and raised from childhood through his youth in Colorado, USA.
Born in 1998, his hallmark is a style that moves freely between hip-hop, R&B, and pop.
He kicked off his full-fledged career with the 2019 EP “Saturday,” proving his solid skills by winning avex’s UNIRAP competition.
His signature track “Pink Lemonade” and the EP “ABOUT TIME,” released in November 2024, showcase lyrics that blend English and Japanese with a melodic flow.
He’s also known for his storytelling that carefully depicts everyday emotions, and he has an active side—he plans to run the Osaka Marathon in 2026.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking stylish, feel-good sounds.
Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki
Angela Aki, who was born to a Japanese mother and an Italian-American father, started learning piano at the age of three.
It’s surprising that when she moved to Hawaii at fifteen, she was influenced by bands like Green Day and Nirvana, isn’t it? After she began her full-fledged music career, she steadily built experience by performing at live houses and making demo tapes.
Her song “Tegami: Haikei Jugo no Kimi e” has become beloved across Japan by people of all ages.
19Akari Dorichurā
Akari Dritschel, the lead vocalist of the pop-rock band FAITH from Ina City in Nagano Prefecture, is half Japanese and half American.
She also works as a model.
With a background in classical music from her student days and roots in listening to Western music, her vocal ability compellingly conveys the band’s brisk groove under their banner “Gang of Pop.” She writes high-quality, 90s-style Western-influenced pop lyrics in English, filled with a warm, supportive tenderness and strength.
Alongside her cute, stylish look, her undeniable talent is drawing attention, and there’s no doubt she’ll continue to thrive even more from here on out!
CRAZY FOR YOUKylee
Kylee is a mixed-race singer with an American father and a Japanese mother.
She hails from Arizona in the United States and has pursued a singing career in both Japan and the U.S.
In 2005, at the age of 11, she drew attention by performing the national anthem at an official NBA game, and three years later, in 2008, she released her indie debut single “VACANCY” across the U.S.
In 2012, she performed in front of former U.S.
President Barack Obama.
In Japan, she has handled theme songs for films and anime, becoming known for her original track “CRAZY FOR YOU” as well as covers of classic songs.
She announced her marriage in 2017 and is currently active in the United States.
feigned illnessEmily
Emily is a female artist who debuted as the acoustic guitarist for The Coinlockers, a girl band produced by Yasushi Akimoto.
She is of mixed heritage, with an Italian father and a Japanese mother.
Her well-defined features and androgynous vibe drew attention online from the moment of her debut.
In addition to her guitar skills, she was also noted for her linguistic ability, being fluent in five languages.
The band, known for hits like “Kebyo” (Pretending to Be Sick), disbanded in December 2021, and no activities have been announced since 2022.
We look forward to the possibility of her debuting as a solo artist or with another band in the future.
[2026] Half-Japanese singers and vocalists: Artists with overseas roots active and gaining attention in Japan (21–30)
BE TOGETHERSuzuki Ami
Ami Suzuki, known for hits like “BE TOGETHER,” is surprisingly a half-Japanese singer! Some people might not have known that.
She reportedly has a Chinese father and a Japanese mother.
She took first place on the audition show ASAYAN and made her singing debut with “love the island.” Together with the legendary producer Tetsuya Komuro—who also influenced her as a listener—she helped color the history of J-POP from the late 1990s to the early 2000s.
Nicknamed “Ami-go,” she was beloved especially among young people at the time and gained popularity with her clear, cute looks.
After resuming her activities, she has also sung club-oriented tracks produced by Yasutaka Nakata and ☆Taku Takahashi of m-flo.
In 2021, she launched a YouTube channel, where she uploads videos showcasing her spicy-food mania and her cooking skills.