[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: Representative Songs of Japanese R&B (21–30)
Break upMukai Taichi
Taichi Mukai specializes in songwriting that centers on rhythm and blues while incorporating elements of alternative, ambient, and electro.
After moving to Tokyo in 2010 and beginning his career as a vocalist in jazz and funk bands, he made his debut in 2016.
His music, which strikes a fine balance between the old and the new, is sure to keep drawing attention.
StoryAI
This is a heartwarming ballad that captures life’s precious moments.
AI’s powerful yet delicate vocals deliver a message to those of us caught up in the busyness of daily life: cherish the here and now.
Released in May 2005, the song reached No.
8 on the Oricon chart, resonated with many, and became a major hit with over two million downloads.
It was also selected as the Japanese ending theme for the film Big Hero 6, making it a beloved track both in Japan and abroad.
It’s perfect for times when you want to savor moments with someone special or take a closer look at yourself.
AI’s warm voice will surely be by your side and touch your heart.
I want to see you.iri
A slow R&B number by iri, known for her husky vocals and solid, cool tracks.
It’s included on her 2007 EP “life ep.” While she sings about the longing to see someone with a cool touch, the lyrics fit a variety of everyday scenes, and the song spread through TikTok as well.
Carried by iri’s smoky voice, it’s wrapped in a mellow atmosphere that somehow feels warm, making it a track that gently keeps you company on nights when you miss someone’s warmth or during relaxing moments.
Call U Every NiteMICHICO
MICHICO is one of Japan’s leading R&B singers.
Active in the 2000s, she undoubtedly ranks among the top three in musicality, even when you include famous vocalists and later R&B artists.
Her greatest strength is her songwriting.
Her compositions are so tasteful that they scarcely seem like typical Japanese R&B, earning strong support from dedicated fans.
“Call U Every Nite” is one of her standout tracks, notable for its smooth flow and classic R&B melodies.
Candle LightFurui Riho
If you’re looking for something fresh in R&B with a strong focus on lyrics, I recommend Candle Light.
It’s a track from singer-songwriter Furui Riho, who hails from Hokkaido, included on her 2022 debut album Green Light.
A breakup song about cutting ties with lingering feelings and moving forward, it blends a sound rooted in the gospel influences of her childhood with a catchy melody, and lyrics that many women will especially relate to.
It’s a warm song that gives you the strength to keep going.
GardenSUGAR SOUL
Speaking of Sugar Soul, many people have a strong image of this song they collaborated on with Dragon Ash’s kj and think it was a solo female act, but in fact they were a three-member unit at the time.
Currently, it seems that AIKO is working solo based in Kumamoto.
Over againFull Of Harmony
Full Of Harmony is an R&B vocal group that has enjoyed popularity for many years.
Active since 1997, they have been highly popular from the beginning as a leading R&B group.
While they haven’t had many notable activities since the 2020s began, R&B is becoming a trend again, so there’s much to look forward to.
Their classic track “Over again” is a memorable piece featuring soulful vocals and a serious melody.