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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Masterpieces of Japanese black music. Featured works embodying the soul of Black music (51–60)
World of Love * CKB SpecificationsCRAZY KEN BAND
“World of Love” is a song that Crazy Ken Band remade as a band version of a track originally included on Ken Yokoyama’s 1995 solo album “Kyōkenteki Sekai” (released under his solo name).
While evoking elements of funk, it’s an intriguing piece featuring a catchy melody that resonates with Japanese listeners.
TONight!THE TON-UP MOTORS
THE TON-UP MOTORS have a cool guitar sound that evokes blues and soul music.
They’re especially popular in their home region of Hokkaido.
If you live in Hokkaido, you may have heard their songs in commercials and the like.
The track in the video is included on their 2016 mini-album “Whatever happens happens.”
FLOWERSWONK
WONK’s “FLOWERS” gives off a gospel feeling with its happy-sounding intro and lush choral parts.
Released as a single in 2021, it’s written entirely in English lyrics and is said to carry the message of wanting to send bouquets to people who are doing their best.
The choir-like choruses reminiscent of gospel choirs and the dazzling horn section reveal the influence of Black music.
In the music video, the members are shown playing joyfully, surrounded by choir and horn section performers.
FREERMukai Taichi
Taichi Mukai is a singer-songwriter from Fukuoka Prefecture.
This song was included as a bonus track on his first album, “BLUE,” released in 2017.
The lyrics were written around the theme of “living more freely,” and you can certainly feel an emotional quality coming through in the music itself.
Masterpieces of Black music in Japanese music. Featured works embodying the spirit of Black music (61–70)
poipoiZainichi Fanku
Formed in 2007 around Kenta Hamano, a former member of SAKEROCK, the band Zainichi Funk included this song on their 2016 album Rainbow.
Its upbeat groove and memorable phrases really stick in your head—you can’t help but hum along.
Don’t mess with history.Sakamoto Shintarō
“Don’t Tamper with History” is the track included on the B-side of the 7-inch single “Tsubame no Kisetsu ni,” released in 2020 by Shintaro Sakamoto, the former vocalist of Yura Yura Teikoku.
The single-note electric guitar cutting in the intro and the rough, rugged drum beat give it a funky groove.
The Precision Bass-driven bassline also calls to mind funk bands like Average White Band and The Crusaders.
My WayMirei Touyama
A song by singer-songwriter Mirei Toyama, who has also drawn attention for participating in works and live performances by the dance-vocal unit RADIO FISH.
It’s the title track of her first album, “My Way,” and was used as the ending theme for the music program “Cho Ryuha.” Her vocals, both transparent and soulful, sit atop an arrangement with a distinctly Black music flavor while retaining the familiar accessibility of J-pop, resulting in a compelling sound.
It’s a track that makes you feel the future of Black music in Japan—one you’ll want to keep listening to.
