Popular R&B. Japanese Artist Rankings [2026]
R&B is popular around the world and has now become one of the most important genres in the music scene.
Originally a genre that developed from Black music, it’s of course also popular in Japan, and there are many artists influenced by R&B.
This time, we’ll introduce Japanese R&B artists in a popularity ranking.
- Japanese R&B Popularity Rankings [2026]
- [Japanese R&B] Notable Classics & New Tracks, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B
- [2026] Latest and Noteworthy J-Pop R&B Tracks
- A band group that colors Japan’s R&B scene
- Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Artist Rankings [2026]
- Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026]
- Ranking of Male J-Pop Singers’ Best-Lyric and Most Popular Songs [2026]
- Popular Reggae: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026]
- Popular R&B: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]
- Classic R&B songs recommended for women
- Male-Popularity Artist Rankings [2026]
- [2026] Must-Listen R&B Masterpieces: From Timeless Classics to Recent Favorites
- RSP Popular Song Rankings [2026]
Popular R&B: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026] (71–80)
Bluemin’ DaysYogee New Waves71rank/position
Yogee New Waves was formed in 2013 by Kengo Kakudate and Naoki Yazawa, who had both been active in a funk band.
Their track “Bluemin’ Days,” included on the EP SPRING CAVE e.p.
released in 2018, delivers a light, refreshing sound that can be described as modern city pop.
The rhythmic forward momentum combined with the layered guitar cutting makes it incredibly danceable.
Fish bones, bird featherscero72rank/position
They are a three-piece band active mainly in western Tokyo.
This song is included on the 2018 album “POLY LIFE MULTI SOUL.” Although the tones are intricately intertwined, the melody slips easily into your ears—it’s a curious song, isn’t it?
Groovynightchilldspot73rank/position
Chilldspot, a rising next-generation artist whose release “the youth night,” put out while all members were still in high school, drew widespread attention.
In 2021, they released “Groovynight” digitally.
Backed by a funky performance, vocalist Hiyune’s singing has a slightly dark, addictive quality.
In the middle section, the rhythm shifts to a swing feel, leading into a jazzy guitar solo that adds a stylish touch.
undergroundidom74rank/position
Singer-songwriter idom, born in 1998 in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture.
Originally studying design, idom gave up on his dream due to the impact of COVID-19 and began making music.
Beyond songwriting, he showcases his multifaceted talents in areas like music video production and illustration.
His second EP, “EDEN,” unfolds an original blend of R&B and house sounds.
“GLOW” was chosen as the theme song for a prime-time Monday drama, and “Awake” was featured in a commercial for Xperia, among other tie-ins he has steadily secured.
Released in January 2024, “Angura” serves as the opening theme for the drama “Yami Baito Kazoku.” It’s a standout track that portrays people living with hidden strength and fragility on the fringes of the city, carrying a profound message.
You can feel the powerful resolve to face forward with hope, without succumbing to loneliness.
Its driving sound, perfectly matched to the drama’s worldview, is sure to resonate with those who persevere through life’s rough waters.
It’s a song that helps you confront your own life amid the noise of modern times.
Star Cafékiki vivi lily75rank/position
Singer-songwriter kiki vivi lily, who has been drawing attention for her unique musicality and undeniable talent.
Her first album, “vivid,” released in 2019, earned high praise from music fans as a masterpiece that tastefully fuses contemporary sounds with a longing for ’90s R&B.
In May 2023, kiki released the EP “Blossom.” Among its tracks, “Hoshi Kissaten” (“Star Café”) is both nostalgic and fresh—one of her signature works.
Set in a café used as a meeting place, the story delicately traces the passage of time with the changing seasons and the fragility of budding love.
Its nostalgic, slightly wistful lyrics vividly reflect kiki’s musical sensibility, which finds special meaning in everyday moments.
Guided by her gentle yet powerful voice, why not lose yourself in a special moment too?
EKO EKOm-flo loves ZICO,eill76rank/position
A stylish number by m-flo, defined by its refined, near-futuristic sound.
This work is a collaboration welcoming ZICO—producer and rapper active in Korea’s hip-hop scene—and eill, a singer-songwriter known for her R&B, as “loves” guests.
Transcending borders and genres, the trio’s distinct personalities intertwine exquisitely to create a high-sense groove.
The recurring, mysterious motif feels like an expression of “resonance” that spans generations.
Released in June 2025, m-flo’s 25th anniversary year, it also drew major attention for the electrifying session showcased in Episode 558 of the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE.
Its cityscape-ready sound is sure to enrich your alone time—and it’s a perfect companion for a night drive.
Judgement?m-flo loves Suzuki Mamiko77rank/position
Set to the soothing rhythm of lovers rock, this captivating track invites you to question your own sense of self.
Featuring guest vocals from Mamiko Suzuki, this single by m-flo was released in March 2025 and drew attention as the first installment of the group’s 25th anniversary year.
Blending a warm melody with a sharp, thought-provoking message, it’s accompanied by an animated music video with a 1960s–70s vibe—another highlight worth noting.
It’s the perfect song for anyone exploring how to live authentically.