More than you might expect!? A roundup of second-generation singers and musicians who inherited shining talent
When you watch TV, you often see second-generation celebrities—people with famous parents—getting a lot of attention, right?
Having grown up with celebrity parents from a young age, many of them are thriving by making the most of the talent they’ve inherited.
There are actually quite a lot of these second-generation stars in the music industry, too!
Some have singers or musicians as parents, of course, but there are also second-generation musicians whose parents are actors or actresses.
In this article, we’ll be introducing a range of second-generation singers and musicians who have celebrity parents.
Enjoy their talent-filled performances, honed since childhood.
- Male singers with great voices: a collection of cool, seductive vocals
- Cool Japanese female vocal
- Masterpieces by male artists known for their captivating high notes. Recommended popular songs.
- A roundup of enka singers who have been active since childhood
- Funny songs recommended for kids: Japanese music that will make you laugh without even trying when you listen.
- [Enka] Songs that are easy to sing even for those who are tone-deaf [Female singers edition]
- “All About Youth” Popular Cover Song
- Perfect for karaoke song choices too! Hype tracks recommended for Gen Z.
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Classic and popular songs sung by actors
- [Emotional Song] A classic wishing for a child’s growth — a love song dedicated to my child
- Gen Z listeners, take note! Great songs that color the J-pop scene
- Easy-to-sing songs recommended for teenage boys with low voices | Songs you can sing even during voice change!
Surprisingly many!? A roundup of second-generation singers and musicians who have inherited dazzling talent (11–20)
Step and a stepRIMA（NiziU）
RIMA, who is active as a member of the hugely popular idol group NiziU.
Because her idol image is so strong, many people might not know this, but she’s actually the daughter of Zeebra, a legend in Japanese rap.
Since Zeebra has a pretty tough-looking face, those who learn this fact for the first time might be surprised.
That said, her musical talent really shows the genes of an artist.
I hope she and her father release a track together someday!
Sky-Blue DaysNakagawa Shoko
Shoko Nakagawa is active as a variety-show idol, multi-talented entertainer, and singer.
She made her singing debut in 2006 and has released many works, mainly anime songs.
Her theme song for the anime Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is known as one of her signature tracks.
Her father is singer Katsuhiko Nakagawa.
Inheriting his talent, her album RGB ~True Color~ includes songs that use lyrics he left behind.
She is a well-known favorite among fans of manga and anime.
The way homeanderlust
The music unit anderlust is a remarkably talented group fronted by Anna Koshino on vocals and guitar.
They made their major debut in March 2016 with the single “Kaerimichi,” and have continued to release standout tracks since.
Drawing on her upbringing in the United States, Koshino blends English and Japanese in her lyrics, which is a hallmark of their sound.
Their songs, which depict the struggles and growth of young people, resonate with many listeners.
Anderlust’s music has also been featured as tie-in songs for films and anime.
With musical roots in bands like Blur and Oasis, their sound shows the influence of Britpop while bringing a fresh breeze to the Japanese music scene.
strainHARUHI
Musician HARUHI is known for delicate soundscapes and deep emotion.
Her father is music producer Takeshi Kobayashi.
She debuted in 2016 and captivated many listeners with her distinctive musicality.
Her world, woven from a masterful fusion of acoustic instruments and electronic sounds, has also earned high praise from critics.
HARUHI’s music offers a fresh auditory experience and is recommended for those seeking emotionally resonant works.
At the sanatorium houseNakamura Rubii
A multi-artist and tenor saxophonist known for a wide range of expressive work, he is also the son of renowned drummer Tatsuya Nakamura.
Drawing on punk and new wave, his appeal lies in avant-garde, high-energy performances.
He began performing in middle school, and in March 2019 he proved his chops by serving as the opening act on Tatsuya Nakamura’s “Hitoritataki Tabi” tour and performing alongside his father.
Under the name KITE IN CLOUD, he released his first EP in May 2023, with none other than Susumu Hirasawa participating in the production, unveiling a uniquely distinctive sonic world.
In November 2024, he also released the solo single “Saint Mannequin.” He’s a gifted musician highly recommended for listeners seeking stimulating music that defies conventional boundaries.
Blue sky blueKimoto Shinnosuke
Shinnosuke Kimoto, who draws attention as the eldest son of national star Hideki Saijo, is a singer and drummer who wields soulful vocals and drum skills honed since childhood.
Although he only recently began his full-fledged career, he has already showcased his talent, being selected among Japan’s TOP 7 representatives on the audition show “Active Song King JAPAN.” His drumming ability, which he started developing at age five, is the real deal; a famous, astonishing episode recounts how he performed on his father’s stage at just ten years old, taking part in the classic “Gyarandou.” His musicality—rooted in a love for vintage rock and R&B—gives the impression of a true thoroughbred.
While pursuing the path paved by his great father, he’s striving to establish his own style, a journey that will make not only music fans want to cheer him on.
Surprisingly many!? A roundup of second-generation singers and musicians who inherited shining talent (21–30)
Goodbye, see you again in the next life.Sakurai Kaito (Innā Jānī)
Kaito Sakurai, an actor and the son of Mr.Children’s Kazutoshi Sakurai.
He began performing in 2019 as Kaito, the drummer of the rock band Inner Journey, gaining a following—especially among young people—with a blend of J-pop and alternative sounds.
He became known for songs such as “Goodbye, See You in the Next Life,” released in 2020, and the band’s first solo headlining show sold out immediately, reflecting their popularity.
Balancing acting and band activities grew difficult, and though it was met with regret, he left the band in October 2023.
Still, his musical sensibilities are the real deal: solid technique as a drummer and expressive power as an actor.
While following in the footsteps of his legendary father, he is forging his own path—and we can’t take our eyes off what he does next.