A band group that colors Japan’s R&B scene
Japan’s R&B scene is now attracting global attention with its diverse musicality.
From Official HIGE DANDism’s Black music-inspired sound and WONK’s mellow soundscapes to Suchmos’s distinctive style reminiscent of Jamiroquai,
and even Nulbarich’s Western-influenced falsetto vocals—the scene offers captivating sounds that transcend genre boundaries.
This time, we’ll introduce a selection of gems that showcase the new possibilities of Japanese R&B.
Bands and groups coloring Japan’s R&B scene (1–10)
Tell Me BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official Hige Dandism is a piano pop band.
The vocalist’s high-tone voice sticks in your ears.
The pitch-warping synth sounds are characteristic of Black music, and the tempo and rhythms are heavily influenced by R&B.
By Your SideFIVE NEW OLD
FIVE NEW OLD is a band from Kobe that presents themselves as genreless.
They make extensive use of techniques often found in Black music, approaching a pop sound.
The distinctive vocals can also be heard as a singing style inspired by R&B.
“808”Suchmos
In 2017, the rock group Suchmos, riding high on the success of their hit “STAY TUNE,” exploded onto the scene.
They incorporate a range of Black music—acid jazz, hip-hop, R&B—then render it in Japanese.
Their style has even been likened to a Japanese Jamiroquai.
This piece isn’t confined to music alone; it’s a multifaceted work created in collaboration with photographers and filmmakers.
It captures the creators’ emotions and scenes with striking clarity.
Adult Hit ParadeBRADIO
A band formed in 2010 that made its major debut in 2017.
With vocalist Takaaki Shingyoji’s commanding voice and harmony-rich sound, one listen is sure to get you hooked.
They’ve appeared at a variety of events, and their one-man live shows are consistently sold out—a testament to their popularity.
A band you won’t want to miss.
Almost ThereNulbarich
It’s a masterpiece featuring a light, airy falsetto that hardly sounds like Japanese, and a catchy song structure that even connects to EDM.
While respecting the manners and rules of soul and acid jazz, it’s been brilliantly distilled into pop.
I think this track goes over well with fans of Western music.