Masterpiece Japanese Blues Albums: Must-Listen Recommendations
Japanese blues with enduring popularity.
It may not be widely known to the general public, but among Japanese music genres, it’s actually one of the highest in overall quality—and there are powerhouse singers with global recognition.
This time, we’ve picked out some classic albums from the world of Japanese blues.
Japanese blues that hardcore music fans especially love…
If you haven’t been interested in Japanese blues until now, you might be surprised by how high the level is!
Of course, we’ve also included some lesser-known masterpieces, so it’s a must-see for hardcore blues aficionados as well!
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Masterpieces of Japanese Blues: Must-Listen Recommended Albums (1–10)
Yokohama Honky-Tonk BluesEdi Han
Eddie Han, known as a guitarist and vocalist from Yokohama, has been active since the Group Sounds boom and is regarded as a skilled artist often called the “Blues King of Yokohama.” His acclaimed masterpiece Blue Jade features numerous highly original tracks that blend genres such as blues, jazz, and rock.
The album serves as a culmination of his work, reflecting Eddie Han’s musical vision and outlook on life.
It’s a highly recommended album for anyone seeking sophisticated blues.
Night Lifebureikudauan
Break Down is a powerhouse blues band that Japan proudly presents to the world.
Their classic album “Live,” featuring members Fusanosuke Kondo and Yoichiro Fukuda, is their second album, released in 1981.
The record covers songs by blues giants like Robert Johnson and John Lee Hooker.
The commitment to English-language vocals pairs beautifully with their traditional blues style.
Produced and arranged by Kondo and Fukuda, the album remains highly acclaimed as a landmark that greatly influenced the Japanese blues scene.
It’s a must-listen not only for blues enthusiasts but also for music fans seeking hidden gems in Japanese music.
Twilight Make-Love CompanyKubota Makoto to Yūyake Gakudan
Makoto Kubota and the Sunset Gang brought a fresh breeze to Japan’s blues scene.
Their album “Sunset Gang” stands out among their work for its distinctly languid vibe.
The sound blends Americana with elements of reggae and Okinawan folk.
The melodies carry no heavy pressure, making it perfect as background music.
With seasoned musicians on board—Haroumi Hosono, for instance, contributes on bass and drums—the result is remarkably polished.
It’s a must-listen not only for blues fans but also for anyone curious about new sounds.
Masterpieces of Japanese Blues: Must-Listen Albums (11–20)
St. Louis BluesYashiro Aki
When you think of Aki Yashiro, you think of a singer who represents Japan, known as the “Queen of Enka.” Having been familiar with rokyoku narrative singing and jazz since childhood, she released her first blues album, “Aika -aiuta-,” in 2015.
Centered on Japanese and American blues covers, the album also includes songs provided by THE BAWDIES and Ken Yokoyama.
Yashiro holds the belief that “rokyoku is Japan’s blues,” and she took on the challenge of expressing the blues’ grief and sorrow in Japanese.
The result is a work that opens up a new horizon by fusing Japan’s kayō-style blues with American blues.
Highly recommended for those who want to feel the universal appeal of the blues.
Cotton BoogieHanashin
Hanashin was a five-piece band that took Osaka’s blues scene by storm in the late 1970s.
Modeled after the James Cotton Band, they were known for powerful vocals and a driving blues rhythm.
Their debut release, Boogie Live, came out in February 1978 and features a live recording from the Seibu Auditorium at Kyoto University.
Centered around covers of James Cotton and Louis Jordan, the album showcases tight, funky performances.
It’s also known as the first production work by Ginji Ito, and it cemented their status as a leading Kansai blues band.
Highly recommended not only for blues fans but also for anyone interested in the Japanese music scene.
Kamona UshakodaUshakoda
Ushakoda, who drew attention with their unique stage performances, are a six-piece band whose roots lie in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture.
In 1978, they won the Grand Prix at a Yamaha contest and released their debut album, “Do Ikki,” the following year.
The album is characterized by a distinctive sound that fuses a variety of genres, including jazz, blues, and country.
Songs like “Kamona Ushakoda” and “Sarakin Blues” garnered attention for their comical lyrics and costumes modeled after Chiba’s farmers.
Incorporating elements of soul and R&B, their music still sounds fresh today.
It’s a recommended pick for those interested in Black music or looking for unique Japanese blues.
Call The Brown Sugar WomanŌki Tōru
Tohru Oki, one of Japan’s leading blues singers.
His album “Soulful” brought a fresh breeze to the Japanese blues scene.
It’s a masterpiece that fully showcases the talent of the man praised across the United States as “Mr.
Yellow Blues.” The track “SWEET SOUL MUSIC” is the very cry of Oki’s soul.
The skills he honed in the home of the blues, America, are beautifully fused with a distinctly Japanese sensibility.
As the only Japanese blues singer performing on the global stage, he’s the perfect starting point—beginners should check him out first.