Artists that anyone with mental health struggles should know
We’ve put together a list of Japanese music artists we want people with “menhera” tendencies to know about.
Of course it includes Mio Yamazaki, known as the god of the menhera scene, and the band R-Shitei, which operates with a menhera concept, as well as artists widely recognized—by themselves and others—as menhera.
We also introduce some lesser-known artists, along with popular and newest tracks in the menhera sphere, so please check them out if you like.
If you find an artist who speaks for your feelings, be sure to stan them!
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Artists every menhera should know (1–10)
Menhera Popcorn!Shoujo Kagekidan Himitsu no Miyako
Shoujo Kagekidan Himitsu no Miyako, who perform as a “menhera pop band,” captivate fans with a one-of-a-kind concept.
Their concept is that they’re an alien band from a planet beyond Earth.
They’re also known for combining musical performances with short skits.
And while their concept is extremely unique, a key point is their strong vocal ability.
Before you know it, as you listen, you’re drawn into the world of Himitsu no Miyako.
Giza Tunk%zenbu kimi no sei da.
Zenbu Kimi no Sei da.
is an idol group that operates under the concept of “yami-kawaii” (dark-cute).
As their name suggests, they fully express frustrations felt toward others and the poisonous feelings lurking deep in the heart.
Their sound is another highlight: it combines heavy, driving energy that seems to embody overflowing emotions with airy, floating elements that evoke an unstable mind.
They’re a powerful idol group that resonates with chaotic hearts where many emotions mix, offering a chance to let it all out.
Heisei Menhera Theorysherumyi
Shermii is a band whose appeal lies in raw, straight-to-the-heart expressions that channel an unstable mind without trying to tidy it up.
Their sound is heavy and driving, as if expelling the darkness that’s piled up inside, and the contrast between the beautiful singing voice and sudden bursts of violent death growls is striking.
Their lyrics, which depict the darker sides of people—their shadows—are another highlight, expressing irritation and anxiety from various angles.
Overall, through their shifting soundscapes, eerie lyrical imagery, and vocal delivery, they leave an impression of standing close to an unstable heart.
Artists Every 'Menhera' Should Know (11–20)
Suki-pi-holicShiina Narumi
After working as an idol, Narumi Shiina transitioned into being a YouTuber, then debuted again as an artist, broadening the scope of her activities.
With the motto “Being the me I like,” her sharp, to-the-point remarks that resonate with viewers are a major draw.
That strong sense of relatability also shows in her work as an artist, where she portrays matters of the heart in love without embellishment.
Her music powerfully conveys the instability of the heart when swayed by love, along with emotions like dissatisfaction and impatience.
Demon World Girls ☆ Love Modeshiina pikarin
This is Hikari Shiina, also known as Pikari Shiina, a demon-realm idol.
She was scouted on the street when she was in middle school and debuted as a reader model in 2009.
She later made her singing debut in 2012 under the name Pikari Shiina.
A multi-talented figure, she has also launched an apparel brand that leverages her subcultural tastes, such as cosplay and anime.
In 2018, she changed her stage name to Hikari Shiina.
She’s also active on YouTube, posting vlogs and makeup videos.
She’s an iconic presence who represents a wing of the “menhera” scene!
Menhera Circussylph emew
Sylph Emew is a rock band from Shiga Prefecture.
With their heavy sound, they captivate music fans not only in Japan but around the world.
One of their signature songs is Menhera Circus, which expresses the feelings of a ‘menhera’ girl.
They have other tracks themed around ‘menhera’ as well, so be sure to check them out.
To further immerse yourself in the band’s world, we also recommend checking out vocalist Rimu’s YouTube channel—there are even videos where she talks about menhera.
In conclusion
What did you think of the menhera artists we introduced? If you’re a menhera yourself, you probably recognized many of them, but some of you might have discovered new names too.
Many openly identify as menhera or use it as part of their concept, so you’re sure to find more songs you’ll like.
Once you find a favorite artist, be sure to check out their other tracks as well.