[2026] Roundup of Japanese Music Artists and Singers Born in the Year of the Horse
Do you know what year your favorite artist was born? In fact, many artists and singers active in the Japanese music scene were born in the Year of the Horse.
The Year of the Horse, according to the Chinese zodiac, is associated with being energetic, passionate, and naturally charismatic.
You might sense a shared intensity in the music created by artists born in that year.
In this article, we’ve researched widely—from solo singers to members of bands and groups—to spotlight artists born in the Year of the Horse.
Enjoy the surprising discoveries of “Wait, this artist was born in the Year of the Horse too?” and find a new favorite track along the way!
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[2026] Roundup of Japanese Music Artists and Singers Born in the Year of the Horse (1–10)
MHamasaki Ayumi
Ayumi Hamasaki, who defined an era as the diva of the Heisei period and continues to captivate many fans with her overwhelming charisma.
Born in 1978, the Year of the Horse, and hailing from Fukuoka Prefecture, she made a striking debut in 1998 with the single “poker face,” and achieved a major breakthrough the following year with the album “A Song for ××.” Her music is characterized by its incorporation of diverse sounds, including pop, rock, and trance.
In December 2001, she won the 43rd Japan Record Award for “Dearest,” which served as the ending theme for the anime Inuyasha.
Winning both that and the Japan Cable Radio Awards in the same year was a remarkable feat, making her the sixth act in history to do so.
The lyrics she writes herself—portraying loneliness and love—still resonate deeply even today.
Her energetic output continues to inspire listeners across generations.
First LoveMichiēda Shunsuke
Shunsuke Michieda, who is active as a member of Naniwa Danshi, is an artist born in 2002, the Year of the Horse.
He began his career in 2014, and many will remember his CD debut with the 2021 single “Ubu LOVE.” While he has secured his place as a classic idol with his sweet vocals and dazzling dance performances, he has also achieved remarkable success as an actor.
Many of you may know the news that his performance in his first lead film role was highly praised, earning him the Newcomer Award at the 35th Nikkan Sports Film Awards / Ishihara Yujiro Awards.
His wide-ranging activities are also appealing, including his regular modeling role for MEN’S NON-NO.
He’s highly recommended for those who want to experience both the brilliance of an idol and the depth of a true performer.
EverythingMISIA
MISIA is a singer with overwhelming vocal prowess and a five-octave range, active not only in Japan but around the world.
Hailing from Tsushima, Nagasaki Prefecture, she captivates many fans with a musical style rooted in R&B and soul.
She debuted in February 1998 with the single “Tsutsumikomu you ni…,” and her album released the same year, “Mother Father Brother Sister,” sold over 2.5 million copies.
“Everything,” released in 2000 as the theme song for the drama Yamato Nadeshiko, remains a beloved ballad to this day.
In 2018, she won the Japan Record Awards’ Best Vocal Performance, further cementing her reputation.
Her powerful yet embracing voice is highly recommended for anyone seeking healing through music.
[2026] Japanese Music Artists and Singers Born in the Year of the Horse (11–20)
Team friendsChiba Yūki
Originating from Oji in Kita Ward, Tokyo, rapper Yuki Chiba was born in 1990, the Year of the Horse.
After making his mark on the scene with the 2012 mixtape “YELLOW T△PE,” he performed under the name KOHH, spreading his reputation worldwide.
Following a hiatus beginning in 2021, he restarted his activities in February 2024 under his real name.
His single “Team Tomodachi” has gone viral, becoming a social phenomenon.
With a stellar track record that includes contributing to an album by Hikaru Utada and winning Best Hip Hop Artist at the 2016 SPACE SHOWER MUSIC AWARDS, he has an illustrious career.
His unflinching portrayal of his upbringing and the realities of the streets powerfully moves listeners.
He’s also noted for his fashion sense, making him a top recommendation for anyone who wants to experience his unique aesthetics.
Ivan the FoolŌtsuki Kenji
Kenji Ohtsuki is a rock musician who stands out not only as the frontman of Kinniku Shojo Tai and Tokusatsu, but also as a novelist.
Born in 1966, the Year of the Horse, he made his major-label debut in 1988 with the album “Buddha L.” His signature songs, such as “The Plan to Indianize Japan” and “Dancing Useless People,” boast an unforgettable, intense worldview that leaves a lasting impression.
Alongside his music career, his writing has earned high acclaim; the fact that he won the Seiun Award for short fiction two years in a row speaks to his multifaceted talent.
His eloquence at the talk event “Nohohon Gakko” is also captivating, continuously drawing fans from many directions.
His unique style—fusing progressive and hard rock with literary storytelling—will surely resonate deeply with those who love subculture and underground expression.
Make you happyRIKU
Hailing from Kyoto Prefecture and born in 2002, the Year of the Horse, RIKU participated in the joint audition “Nizi Project” by Sony Music and JYP Entertainment, and was selected as a member of NiziU after finishing in second place.
With the official debut in December 2020 through the single “Step and a step,” alongside the pre-debut track “Make you happy,” she sparked a phenomenon across society.
The group has also accumulated remarkable achievements, such as receiving a Special Award at the 62nd Japan Record Awards.
Her dance, powered by the core strength developed through her specialty in karate, and her steady, resonant vocals are major charms.
Her bright personality that brings smiles to those around her is endearing as well, making her an artist especially worth watching for anyone seeking positive energy.
Like tonight’s moonMiyamoto Hiroji
Hiroji Miyamoto, a singer-songwriter born in 1966 who continues to lead Japan’s rock scene with his passionate performances and one-of-a-kind voice.
Since debuting in 1988 as the vocalist of Elephant Kashimashi, he has captivated countless listeners.
The song “Koyoi no Tsuki no Yō ni,” which became familiar to households as the theme for the drama “Tsuki no Kagayaku Yoru Dakara,” is a timeless classic loved across generations.
Beyond the band’s heavy sound, his solo work—brimming with respect for kayōkyoku (traditional Japanese pop)—is also outstanding, radiating an energy that seems to stir the listener’s soul.
If you’re seeking a heartfelt, fiery singing voice, he’s an artist you should definitely check out.