[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 Foreign Roots Active and Gaining Attention in Japan (31–40)
R.Y.U.S.E.I.ELLY
ELLY, a performer from the group Sandaime J Soul Brothers, is a half-Japanese with an American father and a Japanese mother.
He was responsible for all the choreography of the sensational hit “R.Y.U.S.E.I.” He also became well-known for incorporating the popular Running Man into the routine.
WILD WILD WILDNESMITH
NESMITH is a vocalist and performer in the dance and vocal groups EXILE and EXILE THE SECOND.
He is of mixed heritage, with an American father and a Japanese mother.
In 2000, he appeared on the popular audition program ASAYAN and, after making it to the final selection in the male vocal audition, began his full-fledged music career.
After working both in groups and as a solo artist, he transferred to LDH in 2005, where he remains to this day.
Many fans have supported him since the ASAYAN era, and his ever-refined singing voice and powerful performances continue to draw praise.
With all my heartBekkī♪#
Becky is a mixed-heritage TV personality with a Japanese mother and a British father.
Wanting to “step up from being only halfway there,” she began her singing career under the name Becky♪♯, incorporating a musical symbol that signifies a half beat and raising a note by a semitone.
Her clear, composed vocals contrast with the energetic image she projects on variety shows.
In “Kokoro Komete” (“With All My Heart”), she gently sings of a woman’s poignant, aching love.
After giving birth, many fans are surely hoping for her return to musical activities.
Song of the SunAmeoto Kaoru
Erika Sawajiri, also known as Kaoru Amane, is of mixed heritage with a Japanese mother and an Algerian-French father.
She made her singing debut with “Taiyou no Uta,” released under the name Kaoru Amane—the character she played in the drama of the same title.
While steadily building her acting career and winning many awards, she released four singles by 2010.
Although she has been the subject of much controversy and is currently on hiatus, many fans are likely eagerly awaiting her return, captivated by her enduring beauty.
And again, beneath the cherry blossoms…Baby M
This is “Again Under the Cherry Blossoms” by Baby M, a half-Japanese singer with a Japanese father and British mother.
It’s a truly beautiful masterpiece with a moving singing voice and lyrics.
Her exceptional vocal ability draws you in more and more as you listen.
[2026] Half-Japanese Singers/Vocalists: Artists with Overseas Roots [Active and Notable in Japan] (41–50)
Follow Me feat.Sound AroundKagami Seira
Seira Kagami is half Japanese, with a Japanese mother and a French-Canadian father of Polish descent.
She has worked widely as a model, actress, and singer, and has now relocated her base of activities to Hollywood in the United States.
She debuted as a model in 2000 and drew attention as the beautiful girl appearing in commercials for Recruit’s information magazine Zexy.
She temporarily suspended her entertainment activities to focus on her studies and moved to Canada, but returned to Japan in 2007 and made her debut as a singer.
In addition to “Follow Me feat.
Sound Around,” she has participated as a collaborating artist on works with various other musicians.
I just can’t stopYamamoto Rinda
It’s ‘Dōnimo Tomaranai’ by Linda Yamamoto, a half-American (father) and half-Japanese (mother) singer.
Although it’s an oldie, I think it’s a classic that people of all ages have heard at least once.
Its upbeat, catchy rhythm makes it a very memorable song.