RAG Musicartist
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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.

Surprisingly many!? A roundup of second-generation singers and musicians who inherited shining talent (51–60)

WARNINGishida issei

Actor Junichi Ishida’s son, Issei Ishida, is active as an actor and singer.

He played keyboard and did vocals for the band THE BIG BAND!!.

Incidentally, the band included Shinji Takeda and others.

The Water Is WideSakamoto Miu

Miu Sakamoto with CANTUS – The Water Is Wide (Official Music Video)
The Water Is WideSakamoto Miu

Miu Sakamoto, the daughter of Ryuichi Sakamoto and Akiko Yano, is active as a musician.

She made her debut by guest appearing under the name Sister M on a track by her father, Ryuichi Sakamoto.

Although her identity was not revealed at the time, she received high praise.

Aliensan

"Aliens" sung by An (Anne)
Aliensan

Known as one of the most beautiful actresses in the entertainment industry, Anne also has a career as a singer.

In November 2010, she released the love-song cover album “LIGHTS,” marking the start of her musical activities.

It’s a track where Anne’s clear, translucent voice blends beautifully with the power of the music.

While continuing her acting career, Anne has pursued music in parallel.

Raised by parents who were also active in show business, her talent clearly shines through in her vocal ability as well.

secret baseHiroki

Hiroki Maekawa / Secret Base
secret baseHiroki

Hiroki Maekawa is a singer-songwriter and the son of vocalist Kiyoshi Maekawa.

Debuting in 2006, he is recognized as an artist in the J-POP genre with a distinctive style and voice.

In addition to his music career, he has also worked as an actor, appearing in the 2009 film “Ramune” and the 2010 drama “Yankee-kun to Megane-chan.” He actively uses social media platforms such as X, and his close connection with fans is part of his appeal.

Be sure to experience his unique world at least once.

Surprisingly many!? A roundup of second-generation singers and musicians who inherited shining talent (61–70)

Song of UluruMai

Mai, the daughter of Joe Hisaishi, began playing the piano at the age of two and was already singing in films by four, growing up closely connected to music.

Known for her crystalline tone and expressive vocals, she has performed many beloved songs, including theme songs for Studio Ghibli works and Japanese versions of Disney films.

Since 2017, she has joined her father Joe Hisaishi’s world tour as a soloist, performing internationally in cities such as New York and London.

Inheriting musical talent across two generations, her voice is sure to soothe your heart.

Wild AgeKudō Yūki

Yuki Kudoh is one of the most accomplished actresses in the entertainment world.

The daughter of singer Hachiro Izawa, she made her debut as a singer in 1984 with “Yasei Jidai.” As an actress, she starred in “Typhoon Club,” establishing herself as a talented young performer.

In 1990, she won the Japan Academy Prize for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role for “War and Youth.” She has also earned international acclaim, including a nomination for the Golden Satellite Award for the film “Snow Falling on Cedars.” In addition to her acting ability, Kudoh is an excellent singer; she showcased her talents to the fullest in the 2005 musical “Claudia.” Kudoh’s diverse and captivating body of work is recommended for audiences of all ages.

Promise 〜forever〜Sumire

Sumire / 「Promise ~forever~」Music Video
Promise 〜forever〜Sumire

Ishida Junichi’s daughter, Sumire.

This is her song “Promise ~forever~.” Her singing ability drew sudden attention as soon as she performed.

With a wonderful voice and such beautiful English pronunciation, you can’t help but be captivated—it hardly sounds like a Japanese singer.