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[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, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B (81–90)

CUBEiri

iri – CUBE (Music Video)
CUBEiri

A funky R&B tune by iri, whose smooth groove evokes a midsummer night’s breeze.

The song gently portrays the way a heart that’s closed off and rigid gradually changes shape with time, eventually fitting with someone again.

Its poetic lyrics, hinting at feelings that won’t fully melt and the shifting forms of love, seem to quietly cradle both the hope and the heartache of romance.

Released in August 2025, the track was written as the theme song for ABEMA’s dating show “Girl or Lady Season 2.” With ESME MORI as sound producer, its urbane, polished sound is perfect for a late-summer drive or a solo chill-out night at home.

It’s a song that subtly exudes good taste—one that adds color to everyday life.

water feat.Josef LeimbergCOMA-CHI

COMA-CHI 「water」feat.Josef Leimberg – inspired movie
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.

shake your headHi-D

HI-D is an R&B singer known for his sophisticated songwriting.

He’s also active as a producer and has supported Japan’s R&B scene for many years.

His biggest charm is, without a doubt, his smooth ad-libs.

Like Craig David, he weaves accents into his flowing delivery, shaping them into beautifully pleasing melodies.

His track “shake your head” showcases these traits to the fullest.

If you love classic R&B, this is a must-listen.

Baby Come Close To MeTawada Emi

Emi Tawata is a singer known for her evocatively languid sound.

She’s recognized for a style close to neo-soul, which blends elements of Black music such as R&B, jazz, and funk, and her languid vocals give her a distinctive vibe reminiscent of Erykah Badu.

One of her signature songs, “Baby Come Close To Me,” features a melody strongly colored by jazz and R&B.

Boogie RideKubota Toshinobu

Toshinobu Kubota – Boogie Ride [Official Video]
Boogie RideKubota Toshinobu

It’s a refreshing funk number that feels like you’re sprinting under an endlessly wide blue sky.

Toshinobu Kubota created it with a positive message: “Let’s live gently in a new era.” It has a powerful energy that blows away the stifling mood of everyday life and frees your heart.

The song was released in October 2020.

It was also featured in a Suzuki Escudo commercial, with Kubota himself appearing—a memorable touch.

It’s the perfect track for switching gears or for a weekend drive.

Let the comfortable beat carry you, and you’ll find yourself feeling optimistic, as if your worries never existed.