A masterpiece of Japanese black music. A noteworthy work embodying the soul of black music.
Black music originally refers to music genres with roots in Africa, encompassing a very wide range such as jazz, blues, funk, soul, R&B, and hip-hop.
When we think of black music, we tend to picture songs by overseas artists, but in fact there are many cool tracks within Japan that have brilliantly incorporated black music.
In this article, we’ll showcase a selection of black music created by Japanese artists all at once!
From popular singer-songwriters to bands, we’ve gathered songs from a variety of artists, so take this opportunity to give them a listen!
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- A classic of Japanese blues. Japanese blues that lets you get drunk on the sound and vocals.
- A band group that colors Japan’s R&B scene
- BRADIO’s famous and popular songs
Masterpieces of Japanese black music. Featured works embodying the spirit of black music (1–10)
Midnight CruiseWONK
This is a song by the four-piece band WONK.
You can clearly see the influence of soul music—it’s a very mature track.
It’s included on their 2017 album Castor.
It evokes beautiful natural scenery in your mind.
R.T.NKANDYTOWN
KANDYTOWN is a 16-member hip-hop crew.
This track is included on their first album, “KANDYTOWN,” released in 2016.
The club-ready sound that makes you want to dance is cool, and the song’s vibe, which evokes the city at night, is also stylish.
Baby I love you soShimizu Shota
Shota Shimizu is a singer-songwriter widely supported for his sweet love songs.
This is his first new track in a year, released in September 2022.
“Baby I love you so” is a number that highlights the neo-soul flavor at the core of his roots.
Even so, the warm atmosphere and melodiousness characteristic of Shimizu remain intact.
Its straightforward, uplifting message is wonderful, and it’ll brighten your mood both as a love song and as a song of encouragement.
The ad-libs in the latter half are soulful and cool, too!
Classic Japanese black music tracks. Notable works embodying the spirit of black music (11–20)
FEEL SO BADodoru! disuko muromachi
“FEEL SO BAD” is a funk number that’ll have your body swaying before you know it.
It was released in August 2022 by Kyoto funk band Odoru! Disco Muromachi.
The interplay between the fast-driving guitar and horn sounds is a blast and really lifts your spirits! Even in this modern era of shorter tracks, it clocks in at under two minutes.
The title might remind some listeners of James Brown’s “I Got You (I Feel Good).” With a funky, cool vibe steeped in Black music, it’s perfect for cranking up your energy!
PassionUA
The song that catapulted the soulful, wildly captivating singer UA to fame is “Jounetsu,” right? Released on June 21, 1996 as her fourth single, it’s an R&B-infused track that became a long-running hit.
It fully showcases UA’s inimitable charm—her unique vocal tone and singing style that no one can imitate.
Highly recommended for those looking for Black music sung in Japanese.
Be sure to pay attention to the lyrics, which quietly burn with passion!
BREAKTHROUGHCosmo’s Midnight, SIRUP, Shin Sakiura
This is a pop number created in collaboration by Australian electro duo Cosmo’s Midnight, singer SIRUP, and guitarist/producer Shin Sakiura.
It was released in September 2022 and was featured in the Nissan “Kicks e-POWER” commercial.
The sprightly guitar sound and rhythms, the melody that evokes stylish Western band music, and the playful back-and-forth of groovy rap are all delightful.
Its slightly retro vibe and the refined, Black music–inspired groove draw you in.
It’s a “feeling good” track that’s perfect for when you want to kick-start something new.
Rules feat. Tao TsuchiyaTAIKING
The track “Rules,” a collaboration between TAIKING, the guitarist of Suchmos, and actor Tao Tsuchiya, was released in September 2022.
It has a lovely, laid-back mood.
I’ve heard they co-wrote the lyrics by sharing what they’re feeling right now.
You can sense a soft, dreamy atmosphere, as if capturing a moment of quiet contemplation.
Alongside the relaxed soul vibe, TAIKING’s gently supportive guitar and Tao Tsuchiya’s cool, lustrous low-register vocals are irresistibly sexy.