A master of keyboard-vocal performance who sings and plays. An artist drawing attention from band projects to solo work.
In rock bands, guitar-and-vocal or bass-and-vocal roles aren’t uncommon, but keyboard-and-vocal is less familiar, isn’t it?
In recent years, groups like King Gnu and Official HIGE DANDism come to mind, but beyond them, there might not be many examples, right?
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of artists—both bands and solo acts—who sing while playing keyboard or piano.
If you’re looking for songs you can perform as a keyboard-vocal, whether for solo renditions or cover bands, be sure to use this as a reference.
And of course, if you’re simply searching for wonderful keyboard-vocal artists, please have a look as well.
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A master of keyboard vocals who sings and plays. An artist to watch, from band projects to solo work (1–10)
Don’t Stop Loveofukōsu
Off Course left a major mark on the Japanese pop scene with their beautiful melodies and harmonies.
Debuting in 1970, they centered their sound on folk rock and pop.
Their signature songs, “Sayonara” and “Yes-No,” are probably ones everyone has heard at least once.
At the core of the band was Kazumasa Oda, who sang while playing the keyboard.
His clear, high-register voice intertwined with delicate piano tones created a truly one-of-a-kind soundscape.
They rarely appeared on television, focusing instead on music production and concerts, and in 1982 they achieved a 10-day consecutive run of performances at the Nippon Budokan.
If you love beautiful piano melodies and vocals, or you’re exploring the roots of singer-songwriter performance, this is a band you should definitely listen to.
log maropeNisshoku Natsuko
Singer-songwriter Natsuko Nisshoku performs in a piano-and-vocal style.
Born in Iwate Prefecture, she began playing piano at age nine and started her full-fledged career in high school.
Her music blends a wide range of genres, including jazz and rock.
Since releasing the mini-album “Ijō Tōmei” in 2012, she has been active at major festivals.
“Suiryū no Rock,” which was highly praised by Koichi Tsutaya on a music program, could be considered one of her signature songs.
Her album “Anti-Freeze” was a winner at the 14th CD Shop Awards 2022.
Their performances, which generate an orchestral level of sonic power using only piano and drums, are stunning.
She’s an artist I recommend to anyone who wants to be captivated by a meticulously woven lyrical world and passionate piano.
EVERBLUEOmoinotake
Omoinotake is a piano trio band that draws influence from soul music and hip-hop.
Formed in 2012 in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, they made their major debut in 2021 with the EP EVERBLUE.
EVERBLUE was selected as the opening theme for the MBS/TBS anime Blue Period.
The rhythmic piano intro, the band’s groovy feel, and the soulful vocals of lead singer Reo Fujii are seriously cool.
A master of keyboard vocals who sings and plays. A standout artist drawing attention from band projects to solo work (11–20)
Storysakaiyuu
Yu Sakai’s voice—hailed as a “silky voice that invites tears”—resonates deeply with the heart.
A master keyboard-vocalist, he crafts one-of-a-kind pop grounded in R&B and soul, enriched by a wide musical palette.
He even moved to the U.S.
alone at 22 and taught himself piano.
After making his major-label debut in October 2009 with the single “Story,” he drew major attention, including being selected for power play on 43 FM stations nationwide.
You might also know him from the opening theme of the anime Nodame Cantabile Finale and for singing “Happy☆Boogie,” the theme song of the latter half of the 2023 NHK morning drama series.
His ever-expanding activities—such as collaborations with world-renowned musicians and an appearance on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts—are equally compelling.
He’s an artist you should definitely check out if you want to immerse yourself in soulful piano and vocals.
Take care and have a good day!Higuchi Ai
Ai Higuchi is known for her powerful, expansive vocals that instantly captivate listeners.
She began playing piano in childhood and is a singer-songwriter with roots in classical and jazz.
She made her major-label debut in November 2016 with the album “160 Degree.” Later, in 2022, she gained global attention for creating the ending theme for the TV anime Attack on Titan The Final Season Part 2.
The song “Akuma no Ko” topped Apple Music’s J-Pop charts in many countries, and its profound themes resonated deeply with audiences.
Expanding her range of activities, she has also provided lyrics for the anime Bocchi the Rock! Ai Higuchi is an artist for those who want to be moved by candid lyrics that portray everyday struggles and by the expressive power of her piano-and-vocal performances.
Spirit Of LoveSing Like Talking
SING LIKE TALKING has secured a firm place in Japan’s music scene with their sophisticated AOR sound.
Many listeners have surely been captivated by their urbane musicality that skillfully weaves in jazz and soul.
Since their 1988 debut, their prowess has been widely recognized, with albums like ENCOUNTER and togetherness topping the Oricon charts.
Vocalist Chikuzen Sato is not only known for his clear, expansive singing but is also a masterful keyboardist.
The way his gentle keyboard tones blend with his voice is the very definition of a sublime ensemble.
Their high level of musicianship—honed through collaborations with top-tier international players since their early days—is especially noteworthy.
They’re the perfect artists for those seeking authentic, high-quality pop or a band sound you can sit with and truly savor.
366 daysHY
When it comes to bands where the keyboardist stands out, many people might think of HY! Izumi Nakasone, who’s even been called the queen of breakup songs, has written countless classic love ballads.
Her voice, with its deep resonance, and above all the relatable, heartfelt lyrics leave a strong impression.
In songs where piano is indispensable—like HY’s signature track “366 Days”—and even in rock ballads like “AM11:00,” her keyboard sound adds rich color to the music.
