RAG MusicR&B-Soul
Lovely R&B and soul

[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!

[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?!”

addictedArche

Arche – addicted【Official Music Video】
addictedArche

Singer-songwriter Arche, who’s gaining attention for hip-hop-rooted grooves and lyrical songwriting.

Opening the eight-track album “sublimated,” released in June 2025, this song is a dark number that portrays the peril of love bordering on codependency.

The fear that the other person might vanish unless you hold them tight, and the addictive emotions you drown in, are delivered through intimate vocals that capture even the breath between words.

The contrast between the minimal beat and mellow melody evokes a suffocating kind of romance.

It’s an R&B tune that seeps deep into the heart—one you’ll want to sit with alone on a quiet night.

KIRA KIRASIRUP

SIRUP – KIRA KIRA (Official Music Video)
KIRA KIRASIRUP

A dazzling track from SIRUP that shines against the backdrop of the city at night.

Released in September 2025, this song serves as the lead track from his first album in about four and a half years, OWARI DIARY.

Its driving dance beat and radiant synth tones create a rush of exhilaration, like speeding down a highway after dark.

The lyrics depict emotions that keep moving forward while wavering between impulse and hesitation, almost like reading a story.

Although it doesn’t have a specific tie-in, it’s perfect for nights when you want to forget the everyday and sink into a pleasant groove.

Be sure to listen closely and savor the lyrics.

Don’t Beyouen kingyo

Bewitching Goldfish – Don’t Be [Official Music Video]
Don't Beyouen kingyo

A bewitching goldfish that uses hip-hop as its foundation to evoke the humidity and luster of the night.

Perhaps you’ve been looking for stylish R&B but haven’t quite found a track that resonates.

If so, we recommend this song they released in August 2025.

Over a minimal, slightly shadowy track, it delicately portrays complex emotions like missed connections and loneliness.

By repeating messages like “don’t be sad” and “don’t be angry,” it creates a distinctive, emotional rhythm.

Crafted by a powerhouse duo whose early signature track “BLACK” reached No.

1 on Spotify’s domestic Viral chart, this is a deep, city-night-appropriate piece.