RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

A popular male singer-songwriter in Japanese music

Singer-songwriters who write lyrics and compose their own music are especially rare and valuable artists among musicians of all kinds.

I imagine there are people who follow music focusing only on songs by singer-songwriters.

So, this time, we’ll introduce popular male singer-songwriters in Japanese music.

Popular male singer-songwriters in Japanese music (1–10)

Winter BeatBikkeburanka

Vickeblanka / Winter Beat (from “RAINBOW ROAD -Track-” LIVE DVD & Blu-ray, released Jan 25, 2023)
Winter BeatBikkeburanka

Vickeblanka is a singer-songwriter known for his exceptional piano technique and soaring high-tone vocals.

Centered on pop while weaving in rock and classical elements, his unique musicality—paired with lyrics spun like a film screenplay—draws listeners into a world of stories.

He made his major debut in 2016, and his theme song for the anime Black Clover, “Black Rover,” enjoys immense popularity overseas as well.

Even earlier, in 2012, he took first place in FM802’s live event song voting project, signaling that his talent had been attracting attention from the start.

His songs brim with a sensibility that blends the best of Japanese and Western music, making it easy to see why listeners get hooked after just one play.

If you’re searching for piano-led music, his sound is sure to resonate with you.

MAGICŌhashi Torio

Ohashi Trio / MAGIC (from ohashiTrio & THE PRETAPORTERS 2022 ~ new year party ~ at Bunkamura Orchard Hall)
MAGICŌhashi Torio

Ohashi Trio captivates with stylish, jazz-based soundscapes and a gentle singing voice.

Born in Hyogo Prefecture, he has a solid musical background, having been familiar with the piano from a young age and formally studied jazz.

He ramped up his career in 2007 with the release of the album PRETAPORTER.

Despite the name “Trio,” it’s actually Ohashi’s solo project, and he skillfully plays many instruments, starting with the piano.

His songs have been featured in numerous films and commercials, and he has even topped the iTunes album charts.

It’s also memorable that he began singing at the suggestion of actor Jun Murakami.

He’s the perfect artist for anyone seeking sophisticated keyboard-and-vocal-driven music!

Something CertainOda Kazumasa

Kazumasa Oda has been a driving force in Japan’s music scene since the 1970s.

As the leader and vocalist of Off Course and as a solo artist, he has continued to thrive.

He spans a wide range of genres—from J-POP to AOR and New Music—and is not only a distinguished vocalist but also a talented multi-instrumentalist on keyboards, guitar, and more.

In 1982, he demonstrated his overwhelming popularity by successfully holding ten consecutive days of concerts at the Nippon Budokan.

In his solo career, many of his songs have been featured as themes for TV dramas and films, making him beloved across generations.

Oda’s warm voice and heartfelt lyrics feel like a dear friend who stays by your side at life’s important moments.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking comfort and courage through music.

Popular male singer-songwriters in Japanese music (11–20)

Life is wonderfulRickie-G

Singer-songwriter Rickie-G captivates with a sun-like warmth and an organic groove that naturally makes your body sway.

While rooted in reggae, his sound blends elements of soul and R&B from Black music.

He made his major debut in July 2007 with the single “Tobihikō,” followed by his first full album “am 08:59” in 2008.

The groove woven from performance skills honed on the streets since age 15 and his warm, soaring vocals is truly one of a kind.

His positive messages—singing about the beauty of life and the joys of everyday living—continue to draw many fans.

He’s an artist we recommend for anyone who wants to surrender to a comfortable rhythm and soak in a peaceful vibe!

two twenty-eightH!de

Birthday Song for Mother - H!dE “2.28 (Ni-Ni-Hachi)”
two twenty-eightH!de

With his handsome, sweet looks and an adorable smile, H!dE packs a punch that rivals his cute music videos (you should definitely see it live to confirm).

His gentle voice that slips right into your heart and lyrics that reveal a caring personality are truly captivating.

I came here by bike.SLOTH

SLOTH / “Came Here by Bike” OFFICIAL VIDEO
I came here by bike.SLOTH

A rare, pure youth anthem by the famed “man of legend” known to those in the know.

Do you remember them? The boys who, eight years ago, posted purikura photos on social media with the caption “Came by bike.” A phrase that often became a punchline has been reimagined with those boys now grown up, resulting in a refreshing coming-of-age song.

Kinta’s Great AdventureTsuboi Norio

A well-known classic, to say the least.

If I recall, it first gained attention on the radio as a dirty joke song.

Later it went viral on the internet and became a huge hit in real life, especially among elementary school kids.

I bet a lot of people know it for some reason.

It’s even in karaoke, so give it a try.