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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 (11–20)

I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “I Won’t Fall in Love Again” (Music Video) [5th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara / Mou Koi Nante Shinai
I won't fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki

It’s a song that sings about lingering feelings for a lover in a very refreshing way.

It’s the kind of song you want to listen to quietly alone during the chilly, lonely seasons of autumn and winter.

The chorus features those distinctly Makihara-like phrases that feel very refreshing.

The high vocals and crisp, clean sound go together perfectly.

I’ll walk home.Saitō Kazuyoshi

It was released in 1994 as Kazuyoshi Saito’s fourth single.

The song was used as the opening theme for Fuji TV’s children’s program Ponkikkies starting in April 1994, and it was popular across a wide range of ages, from children to adults.

Even years after its release, it continues to be featured in many commercials and is one of Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature songs.

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!

DOKOKEN-U

A song whose chorus just won’t get out of your head.

It’s a bittersweet track that makes you want to drive the highway from sunset to midnight.

The mature, masculine sexiness is irresistible.

Doesn’t it make you want to take your favorite woman for a drive by your side?

HOMEShimizu Shota

He is a Japanese pop and R&B singer-songwriter who handles songwriting, composition, and even arrangement.

With vocals that are sometimes powerful and especially delicate, he is a rare presence in Japan, capable of everything from richly expressive singing to rap.

This song is his debut track, born from the inspiration of his vocal prowess.

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!

Popular male singer-songwriters in Japanese pop (ages 21–30)

Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio

Tamio Okuda “Easy★Rider” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio

It was released in 1996 as Tamio Okuda’s sixth single.

It was used as the theme song for Nissan’s Wingroad commercials and became a long-running hit.

The song was written during a tour of the same name, and around the time it was released, he was also producing PUFFY.