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Masculine Allure: Artists and Bands with Husky Voices

A lot of people love husky singing voices, don’t they?

In particular, a male artist’s husky voice can feel really alluring and masculine!

Even within husky voices, there are many different styles—cool and edgy, gentle and soothing, and more.

In this article, I’ll introduce artists with a variety of husky voices.

From cool, rock-driven artists with a strong masculine vibe to gentle husky-voiced singers who shine on ballads, we’ve gathered a wide range.

Hopefully you’ll find a new favorite artist!

Masculine Allure: Artists and Bands with Husky Voices (11–20)

lampSakiyama Soshi

Sosuke Sakiyama – Lamp / THE FIRST TAKE
lampSakiyama Soshi

Soshi Sakiyama is a singer-songwriter drawing attention for his husky vocals and profound lyrics.

Born in August 2002, he picked up the guitar at the age of four and played in a band during his middle school years.

He debuted with a digital single in 2018, and the following year gained buzz with tie-in tracks such as “Awa Mitaku Kagayaite.” In 2021, he made his major-label debut with the album find fuse in youth and has since provided theme songs for TV dramas and anime.

With surreal, poetic lyrics and a diverse sound spanning folk, rock, and electronica, he captivates listeners.

His music—marked by a distinctive worldview and a uniquely husky voice—is recommended for those who value introspective emotions and thoughts.

somedaySaucy Dog

Saucy Dog – Someday / THE FIRST TAKE
somedaySaucy Dog

When it comes to bands with a captivating husky voice, Saucy Dog comes to mind.

Centered around vocalist Shinya Ishihara, the trio—also featuring Yuika Seto and Uso Akizawa—formed in 2013.

Their music is characterized by a foundation in pop rock and indie rock, with occasional emotional elements woven in.

In 2021, they successfully held their first concert at the Nippon Budokan, and the following year they made their debut on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

Ishihara’s husky voice, perfectly matched with their nostalgic sound, captivates listeners.

To Us Who Were Once GeniusesCreepy Nuts

[MV] Creepy Nuts – To Us Who Were Once Geniuses
To Us Who Were Once GeniusesCreepy Nuts

Formed in 2007, the hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts consists of DJ Matsunaga and R-Shitei.

They made their major debut in 2016, and their track “How to Get High Legally” became a massive hit.

Known for their unique style that fuses rapping with turntablism, they are also highly regarded for their live performances.

Their 2020 album “Katsute Tensai Datta Oretachi e” (To Us Who Were Once Geniuses) received high praise as a work that reflects their philosophy.

They have won numerous freestyle rap competitions, firmly proving their skills.

R-Shitei is not only a skilled rapper but also a talented singer; his husky vocals are likely one reason listeners are captivated.

They’re the perfect artists for anyone who loves energetic and distinctive music.

The person I lovedŌno Yūdai (from Da-iCE)

Yudai Ohno (from Da-iCE) / "The Person I Loved"
The person I lovedŌno Yūdai (from Da-iCE)

Da-iCE is a dance and vocal group known for its two vocalists with distinct voices.

One of the vocalists, Yudai Ohno, has a husky tone, and his warm singing voice makes rich use of overtones.

He has also showcased his solid vocal ability by appearing to throw the first pitch at professional baseball games and singing the national anthem a cappella.

His vocal prowess shines in cover songs like Kazuyoshi Saito’s “Utautai no Ballad” and Alice’s “Tooi Kideki o Kikinagara,” which he delivers as if they were his own.

The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT

The End of the World / thee michelle gun elephant
The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT

The band thee michelle gun elephant, which whipped countless rock festivals and live houses into a frenzy until they ceased activity in 2003.

Vocalist Yusuke Chiba’s rough, untamed husky voice sears the coolness of their rock into your ears.

They left behind numerous legends and remain a beloved Japanese icon even after their breakup.

I’ve always liked you.Saitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – I’ve Always Loved You [Music Video]
I’ve always liked you.Saitō Kazuyoshi

With a voice brimming with husky charm, Kazuyoshi Saito continues to captivate countless listeners.

Since his 1993 debut, he has thrived across a wide range of genres, including folk, rock, and pop, producing numerous hits such as “Aruite Kaerou” and “Utautai no Ballad.” He won an Excellence Award at the Japan Record Awards in 2008 and made his first appearance on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen in 2012.

His powerful vocals, delivered from his tall 181 cm frame, are overwhelmingly impactful in live performances.

Warm, heartfelt lyrics and a gentle vocal tone are his trademarks, and many of his songs resonate deeply with listeners.

A beloved figure across generations, he is one of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters.

[Masculine Allure] Artists and Bands with Husky Voices (21–30)

Goodbye ElegyIshizaki Hyuui

Huwie Ishizaki – Sayonara Elegy / THE FIRST TAKE
Goodbye ElegyIshizaki Hyuui

Singer-songwriter Huwie Ishizaki.

He’s well known for writing songs for Masaki Suda.

He’s not the type who relies on explosive vocal power, yet he captivates with vocal nuance, breath control, and the way he places words.

That’s why he has an unusually strong persuasiveness in ballads and mid-tempo numbers.

Have you watched Huwie Ishizaki on THE FIRST TAKE? I got goosebumps.

What amazed me was the trembling delicacy, the rasp that borders on a shout—it felt so soulful and hit me right in the heart.

He sings while playing guitar, yet neither his voice nor his guitar wavers at all.

I think he’s the kind of artist who changes the air the moment he steps on stage!