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[2026] A Roundup of Japanese Male-Female Duo Artists

Isn’t it surprisingly hard to think of mixed-gender duos off the top of your head?

With that in mind, we’ve put together a roundup of artists who perform as male-female duos.

In fact, there are many artists that not only music fans but also casual listeners are familiar with.

Some of them are married couples.

The chemistry unique to a male-female duo creates a special atmosphere you can’t find anywhere else.

Alongside hugely popular acts in the J-POP scene, be sure to check out professionals from various genres and units that have a deeply appealing, core fan vibe.

We also introduce artists who became duos partway through their careers, as well as singers who have since disbanded.

Use this as a guide when you’re looking for mixed-gender duos and their songs!

[2026] Summary of Japanese Male-Female Duo Artists (1–10)

Same Story – Goodbye Toshimaen ver. (Official Live Video)Hanbaato Hanbaato

Humbert Humbert – The Same Story - Goodbye Toshimaen ver. (Official Live Video)
Same Story - Goodbye Toshimaen ver. (Official Live Video)Hanbaato Hanbaato

Humbert Humbert is a male-female duo that creates warm, heartfelt songs that resonate with people.

Formed by Ryosei Sato, who excels at a wide range of stringed instruments, and Yuho Sano, known for her harmonica and whistle performances, they have been active since their student days and drew attention with the 2005 hit “Onaji Hanashi” (“The Same Story”).

Their part-by-part vocals and overlapping male-female harmonies warm listeners’ hearts.

They are a unit that delivers warm messages, depicting themes across all facets of love and life.

Be happy.maruri to ryūga

Maruri to Ryuga was formed in 2018 by MaRuRi and Ryuga, who were primarily active on social media.

They produced many songs depicting the dynamics of romantic relationships between men and women, which resonated with younger generations and drew widespread attention.

Their twin-vocal performances of songs that portray everyday exchanges between men and women evoke a variety of romantic scenes.

The conversational, back-and-forth style of their songs highlights the unique charm of a male-female duo.

With rich harmonies between male and female voices, they are a musical unit that soothes listeners’ hearts.

Lily-of-the-Valley StreetRakkī Ōrudo San

Lucky Old Sun 'Suzuran Street' (Official Music Video)
Lily-of-the-Valley StreetRakkī Ōrudo San

Lucky Old Sun is a male-female duo that paints everyday scenes and people’s lives with poetic richness.

Their sound is rooted in simple yet emotive folk and pop, deftly incorporating elements of jazz and rock.

Formed in 2013, they began performing out of live houses in Koenji and made their CD debut in 2015 with the mini-album “I’m so sorry, mom.” In 2019, they became the first Japanese artists to be featured in an Apple Japan commercial song, steadily expanding their appeal.

Yoshihiro Shinohara and Nana registered their marriage in February 2019, and have continued to release works enthusiastically after relocating their base to Shikoku.

Their flexible approach—performing as a duo as well as in full band setups—is another key to their popularity.

They’re the perfect artists for listeners seeking warm songs that accompany everyday life.

[2026] Summary of Japanese Male-Female Duo Artists (11–20)

Catarsis of a Nation’s DemiseALI PROJECT

ALI PROJECT “Catharsis of the Awakening of a Ruined Nation” Music Video
Catarsis of a Nation's DemiseALI PROJECT

ALI PROJECT is a group with a unique aesthetic that fuses a variety of genres, including progressive rock, baroque pop, and neoclassical.

Formed in 1985, they made their indie debut in 1988 with the album “Gensō Teien” (Illusory Garden).

While grounded in classical music, they continue to captivate many fans with their grand sound and decadent, aesthetic worldview.

Songs woven from Arika Takarano’s soprano-like vocals and Mikiya Katakura’s meticulous arrangements have been used as theme songs for numerous anime works.

Their costumes and stage productions, which incorporate elements of Gothic Lolita, are also striking, radiating a one-of-a-kind presence in both music and visuals.

They are a recommended duo for music fans who enjoy sweeping orchestral arrangements and classically inspired elements.

Feeling great!!mihimaru GT

mihimaru GT – Feeling Great ↑↑
Feeling great!!mihimaru GT

mihimaru GT is a musical duo formed by lead vocalist hiroko and rapper miyake.

Their 2006 hit “Kibun Jojo ↑↑” put them on the map in the J-pop scene.

While they produce dazzling, disco-influenced dance music, it’s likely their catchy songs—easy for anyone to sing and dance to—that won widespread popularity.

Their sound, which capitalizes on colorful choral work by male and female vocals, creates a uniquely atmospheric vibe.

They’re a male-female duo with rich musicality, known as well for crafting numerous commercial jingles.

They say it’s a dragon.The Otals

[MV] They Say It's a Dragon / The Otals (Dragon, You Say?)
They say it’s a dragon.The Otals

The Otals, a shoegaze duo made up of cousins, made their debut in March 2021 by releasing their EP “The Night Swallows” for free.

With tightly knit male–female harmonies from June FAXxxxxx and Marina Timer, sweet melodies reminiscent of 2000s indie pop, and artwork influenced by American cartoons, they’ve established a distinctive style that blends quintessential shoegaze sonics with pop appeal.

In August 2024 they held their long-awaited first live show, and in February 2025 they sold out a headlining concert at FEVER in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, steadily gaining recognition.

Calling themselves “the most approachable shoegaze in the world,” their music is perfect for listeners who seek a balance of noisy guitar textures and accessible melodies.

Red ShoesSalley

[FULL] Salley 'Red Shoes' 2018.2.3 Live
Red ShoesSalley

Salley is a duo formed by Urara, who handles lyrics and vocals, and Kohei Ueguchi, who handles composition and guitar.

They deliver songs with a distinctive atmosphere grounded in pop and rock to their listeners.

They have provided music for numerous TV programs, showcasing their wide-ranging musicality.

Many of their tracks incorporate rock sounds and synth tones, perfectly matching Urara’s supple, beautiful vocals.

At times they offer gentle accompaniment, and at other times they deliver passionate performances—an ever-evolving musical unit.