[Japanese R&B] Notable Classics & New Tracks, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B
This playlist is packed with Japanese R&B.
Centered on authentic, high-quality Japanese R&B that lets you feel a refined vibe, it also picks up plenty of newer tracks that reflect recent trends.
With beautiful vocals and grooves, you’ll surely be wrapped in a comfortable wave of sound.
Be sure to enjoy the unique resonance of the Japanese language as you listen.
I’d be happy if this becomes a starting point for exploring and discovering new songs.
Alright then, let’s enjoy it together!
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[Japanese R&B] Notable Masterpieces & New Tracks: Representative Songs of Japanese R&B (61–70)
You are a friend.JASMINE
JASMINE is an R&B singer who made a major impact with her debut single “sad to say,” and even served as the opening act for the world-renowned R&B artist Ne-Yo.
Known for her powerful yet beautiful vocals and cutting, assertive lyrics, she has shifted from her early style to releasing authentic R&B tracks rooted in slow jams.
“Kimi wa Tomodachi” (You Are a Friend) is one of her signature songs, featuring a compelling sound that blends slow jams with 2000s-era R&B.
E-S-C-A-P-ETameoka Sonomi
Sonomi Tameoka is a female R&B singer who has been active for a long time, from 1998 to the present.
While her nationwide name recognition isn’t particularly high, she has produced hit songs in the R&B scene for many years and continues to release new tracks at a brisk pace.
Her classic “E-S-C-A-P-E,” released in 2020, blends house and R&B into a crisp, punchy sound.
Be sure to check it out.
Beast KISSMelody Chubak
Melody Chubak is a half-Canadian, half-Japanese singer-songwriter.
Many of you might know her from her days as a child actress on the TV show Tensai TV-kun.
Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is Kemonokiss.
Musically, it’s crafted in a gothic-style R&B vein, similar to the recent trend set by Sam Smith’s Unholy.
Be sure to check it out.
So that I can be honest/openJ-DAD
Singer-songwriter J-DAD, who is active mainly in Kyushu.
While he isn’t nationally popular, he’s a local artist with a strong following in Kyushu, known for R&B rooted in acoustic sounds.
One of his signature works, “To Be More Honest,” features a melody that blends acoustic instrumentation with soulful vocals.
The catchy, straightforward lyrics also leave an impression, so it might be nice to listen while reading along.
You Go LadyKubota Toshinobu
This is a funky, upbeat number by Toshinobu Kubota that lightens the hearts of its listeners.
It embodies the artist’s message of “Ladies, don’t hold back—go for it!” and stands out as an empowering anthem that encourages you to move forward with confidence.
The rhythm that makes your body move and the positive message are sure to give you energy and courage.
Released in March 2018 as his 40th single, it was also featured in a commercial for KOSÉ’s ESPRIQUE.
The song was later included on the album BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE.
It’s perfect for starting a new day or for when you want to lift your spirits.
Bad BadAwich
Awich is an artist from Okinawa.
She learned English on U.S.
military bases from a young age, so her English is excellent, and because she also studied abroad, her music—positively speaking—doesn’t feel “Japanese” at all.
Among her works, the recommended R&B track is “Bad Bad.” The vocal line carries a slow-jam vibe, while the track, though exotic, firmly adheres to R&B fundamentals.
Japan is often called a latecomer in music, but isn’t her work something we can proudly present to the world?
Groove MeShunské G & The Peas
Shunské G & The Peas is a soul band known for their authentic, striking sound.
It’s pronounced “Shunsuke G and the Peas.” Their soul and R&B aren’t simple imitations of US or UK styles; rather, they weave those genres into the fabric of Japanese J-pop.
Their track Groove Me is packed with their distinctive musicality.
If you’re into funky R&B, this one will hit the spot.