[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 Classics & New Tracks: Signature Songs of Japanese R&B (71–80)
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.
ripping sound; the sound/feel of something tearing or splitting (meri-meri)CRAZY KEN BAND
Crazy Ken Band, the top sound creators in the East.
They’ve been active since 1997, and their 2002 single “Tiger & Dragon” became a sensation, earning them nationwide popularity.
One of their signature songs, “Meri Meri,” released as a single in 2006, gained acclaim for its R&B-centered melody and lyrics depicting mature romance.
If you’ve only listened to “Tiger & Dragon,” you’ll probably be shocked, thinking, “They’re such a soulful band?!”
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?
[Japanese R&B] Notable Classics & New Tracks, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B (81–90)
water feat.Josef LeimbergCOMA-CHI
COMA-CHI is known for her powerful singing voice.
She’s also active as a female rapper and is a legendary figure who has had a major influence on Japanese female rappers.
In her early days, she released R&B mixed with pop, but recently she has shifted her musical style to authentic R&B rooted in neo-soul.
The track “water feat.
Josef Leimberg” is a sophisticated song that lets you experience this evolution.
Candy RainKubota Toshinobu
A mellow and sweet sound that feels so good—this is a pop-sensibility-filled R&B number from Toshinobu Kubota.
Released in November 2001 as his 26th single, the song was written specifically as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Wednesday Affairs.” At first listen it comes across as a smooth, sugary love song, but beneath the surface lies the bittersweet taste of romance and a touch of poignant melancholy; the more you listen, the deeper it draws you in.
That blend of NYC-honed groove and Japanese lyrics just makes you nod and think, “This is quintessential Kubota!” It’s the perfect piece for a night when you want to soak in a slightly grown-up mood.
Cry On Your SmileKubota Toshinobu
This is a renowned ballad that tenderly yet poignantly captures the feelings of seeing a loved one off as they set out toward their dreams.
Released in October 1987, it became a milestone as the artist’s first entry into the Oricon Top 10.
Built on an R&B foundation, its beautiful melody is paired with lyrics filled with such deep affection that you find yourself in tears even within the other person’s smile—listening makes your chest tighten.
The emotionally overflowing ad-libbed outro is breathtaking, conveying irrepressible feelings that bring tears to your eyes.
Chosen as the theme song for the Toho film “Kamitsukitai,” it’s also included on the best-of album “the BADDEST.” When you listen to it as you cheer on someone dear at the start of a new chapter, it feels like a gentle push on the back.
JAM fo’ freedomKubota Toshinobu
This is a funk track marked by an energetic groove and vocals that make your heart skip just by listening.
It’s included on the album “Beautiful People,” released in November 2019.
The song delivers a powerful, positive message that celebrates everyone.
The remix with SASUKE was selected as the official theme song for the 2019–20 season of Japan’s professional men’s basketball league, the B.LEAGUE.
It stirs a sense of exhilaration as if you’re watching an incredible highlight play, and you can’t help but start moving to it.
It’s a perfect song to lift your spirits and give you a strong push when you’re taking on a challenge.