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 Black music in Japanese pop. Featured works embodying the spirit of Black music (21–30)
That’s My LifeL.L BROTHERS
An authentic R&B number by L.L BROTHERS where low-centered beats intertwine with a crisp, satisfying swing.
It wraps you in the exhilaration of cruising through the city at night, and your heart can’t help but dance.
The track seems to embody their unwavering way of life and pride—charging forward on the path they believe in.
Released in November 2004, it was included as the lead track on their album “Back Again,” which marked their return to the major scene.
Crafted by the duo themselves from the track-making up, it’s a song that serves as a declaration of intent.
Whether you want to sink into the music in a dimly lit room or need a boost the night before starting something new, this one is sure to give you that extra push.
TokyoAme no Parēdo
The groovy, crisp guitar cutting is what makes ame no parade’s “Tokyo” stand out.
Although ame no parade made their major-label debut in 2016, this is a single they released in their indie days that same year.
It’s an uplifting track with a forward-driving groove, expressing the feelings they had when leaving their hometown of Kagoshima to move to Tokyo.
Vocalist Kohei Fukunaga has roots in jazz and Black music and reportedly enjoyed listening to artists like Akiko Yano and Hanaregumi.
Masterpieces of Japanese black music. Featured works embodying the spirit of Black music (31–40)
Paleyahyel
This track, with deep reverb and a dreamlike sound design, is included on the 2018 album “Human.” It gives the impression that “philosophy” itself has been turned directly into music.
The music video, with its striking visual beauty, is also a must-see.
WE AREeill
Singer-songwriter eill, who develops her own musicality based on Black music.
Her track “WE ARE” is addictive, with her emotional vocals entwining around a bass-heavy beat.
Despite its stylish sound, the lyrics delve deeply into human vulnerability and the self that confronts it, and that message is profoundly moving.
The way she builds the hooks is skillful, and the song’s structure keeps you engaged from start to finish—I’m genuinely impressed!
Night Drivin’Neighbors Complain
This is a song by NEIGHBORS COMPLAIN, a band based in Osaka.
It’s included on their first album, “NBCP,” released in 2017.
As the title suggests, it’s a perfect track for a night drive.
It gained attention after being featured in a car commercial.
LOOPSIRUP
This song is perfect for when you want to sink into a sentimental autumn mood! It’s a track from singer-songwriter KYOtaro’s solo project, crafted by SIRUP.
With a sound rooted in R&B and soul, it’s sure to resonate with fans of Black music.
At first, it sounds like it’s depicting joyful everyday moments—like café dates and drives with a lover—but hidden beneath is a bittersweet story of someone replaying memories with a person who’s no longer by their side.
The sweet, mellow vocals and laid-back groove seem to gently wrap around the protagonist’s bittersweet recollections.
Released digitally in 2018 and included on the EP “SIRUP EP2,” this refined sound will enrich your autumn moments—perfect for a solo night in or a drive.
Call U Every NiteMICHICO
A song in which MICHICO—who has written for numerous top artists—fully showcases her allure as a singer.
It’s included on producer JHETT a.k.a.
YAKKO for AQUARIUS’s album “JHETT,” released in March 2005.
The lyrics, which portray feelings that grow so strong you can’t help but call every night, read like a poignant love story.
MICHICO’s sultry vocals melt into a classic R&B track, unfolding a sophisticated, urban world.
Because she herself was involved in both the lyrics and composition, the subtle nuances of emotion are exquisitely expressed—one of the song’s key highlights.
It’s a number that keeps you company on quiet nights of solitary reflection.