[2026] Roundup of Japanese Music Artists and Singers Born in the Year of the Horse

Shut up.Ado

[Ado] Shut Up

Ado is a singer born in 2002, the Year of the Horse, who began as an online vocalist and shot to stardom in no time.

When her major-label debut single “Usseewa” was released in October 2020, it became a massive hit and a social phenomenon.

Known for her protean vocals and overwhelming expressiveness, she has shown unstoppable momentum, including performing as the singing voice for the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.

In April 2024, she achieved another milestone by becoming the first female solo artist to headline a concert at the National Stadium, among many other accomplishments.

If you want to be moved by an energetic performance befitting someone born in the Year of the Horse, she’s an artist you can’t miss.

instinctShiina Ringo

Ringo Sheena – Instinct

Sheena Ringo captivates listeners with an original musicality unconstrained by genre and a bewitching visual aesthetic.

Born in 1978, the Year of the Horse, her passionate approach to her craft truly embodies the spirit of her zodiac sign.

She made her major debut in 1998 with the single “Kōfukuron” (The Theory of Happiness) and has released numerous hits including “Koko de Kiss Shite.” and “Honnō.” In addition to her solo work, she has been active as the vocalist of the band Tokyo Jihen, whose 2020 restart made big headlines.

Her talent is highly regarded worldwide—she even served as music director for the closing ceremony of the 2016 Rio Olympics.

With accolades such as the Geijutsu Senshō (Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts) to her name, her work is recommended to anyone seeking a jolt of inspiration in their everyday life.

To the Lightmiwa

miwa 'To the Light' Music Video

Singer-songwriter miwa, born in the Year of the Horse in 1990, made her major debut in 2010 with the single “don’t cry anymore.” She has gained wide support with catchy, emotionally resonant songs such as “Hikari e,” a major hit as the theme song for the drama Rich Man, Poor Woman, and the album Delight, which was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

In March 2023, she completed her master’s program, showcasing the vitality to balance both her music career and academics—a major part of her appeal.

Her powerful yet transparent voice, unexpected from her petite frame, is sure to move listeners.

She’s an artist you’ll want to hear if you connect with down-to-earth messages or are looking for positive energy.

LONELY NIGHTStofubeats

tofubeats – LONELY NIGHTS

Born in 1990, the Year of the Horse, tofubeats is a music producer and singer from Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture who has drawn attention since his middle school years by releasing tracks online.

His body of work, grounded in hip-hop and electro, is highly regarded by many listeners.

Starting composition at the age of 14, he has not only pursued his own projects but also actively written songs for a variety of artists.

He’s an artist you’ll want to listen to if you’re looking to relax with sophisticated music or need a companion for a night drive.

SPARKYoshii Kazuya

THE YELLOW MONKEY – SPARK

Born in 1966, rock star Kazuya Yoshii—frontman of THE YELLOW MONKEY who pursues a distinctive aesthetic blending glam rock and Japanese kayōkyoku—made his major debut in 1992 with the single “Romantist Taste.” As a band, they produced era-defining hits like “JAM” and “BURN,” dominating the music scene of the 1990s.

His talent remains unmistakable in his solo work as well, including topping the charts with the album The Apples.

If you want to immerse yourself in a sultry voice and a philosophical lyrical world, be sure to explore his music.

Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Ballad of a Singer (2008 Ver.) [Music Video]

A singer-songwriter from Tochigi Prefecture who moves freely between folk and rock.

Since his 1993 debut with “The Beatles I Saw Were on TV,” he has produced numerous classics such as “Aruite Kaerou” and “Utautai no Ballad.” Songs that strike a chord—like “Ya Mujou,” which won an Excellence Award at the Japan Record Awards in 2008, and “Yasashiku Naritai”—are a big part of his appeal.

In 2011, he formed MANNISH BOYS with drummer Tatsuya Nakamura, actively pursuing band projects as well.

Marking the 30th anniversary of his debut in 2023, he released the album “PINEAPPLE.” With roots in hard rock yet the ability to captivate audiences with just an acoustic guitar, Kazuyoshi Saito’s world is perfect for anyone who wants to feel fiery passion.

Sentimental KissShio Reira

Reira Shio - Sentimental Kiss [Official Music Video]

Reira Shio is a singer-songwriter from Tokyo who captivates listeners with her clear vocals and literary lyrics.

Born in 2002, she’s an artist of the Year of the Horse.

She began her career in September 2021 with “Sayonara CITY” and made her major-label debut in August 2023.

Her signature song, “Sentimental Kiss,” was used as background music for ABEMA’s He and the Wolf-chan Won’t Fool Me and topped Spotify’s Viral Chart.

Her refined word choice—honed in a university literature program—and her lyricism that leaves room for interpretation have won over many listeners.

In August 2024, she released her first CD, the EP No one.

She’s an artist you’ll want to hear if you value the sound of words and seek dramatic storytelling in music.