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.
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- RSP Popular Song Rankings [2026]
Popular R&B: Japanese Artists Ranking [2026] (91–100)
Fallin’ In Love AgainHiromi92rank/position
Her voice is said to be a “Rainbow Voice” that makes anyone fall in love, and her R&B songs, delivered with overwhelming vocal power, are wonderful and moving.
Many of her lyrics feel authentic and relatable, which also makes them easy to get into.
My Little RoseHirai Dai93rank/position
When introducing Dai Hirai, you often hear the word “organic.” While organic literally means “of living matter,” in Hirai’s case it irresistibly feels closer to “natural.” His musicality and his nature-centric lifestyle are inseparable, and it’s precisely because he is so connected to nature that he can create songs that provide such high-quality healing.
It’s truly a musical endeavor where clothing, food, and music are fused together.
“My Little Rose” is a track that lets you feel R&B—even including a recording of his baby’s first cry.
It’s a moving song in which a great love envelops everything, from the joy of birth to the anxieties that come with growing up.
Close your eyesHirai Ken94rank/position
This is a gem of a song whose poignant lyrics and Ken Hirai’s clear, translucent voice resonate deeply.
It beautifully captures profound feelings about lost love and the aching longing of being able to reunite only in memories.
Released in April 2004, it captured many hearts as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” It became a social phenomenon, scoring a massive hit that included becoming the first movie tie-in to top Oricon’s year-end chart.
Highly recommended for those who have experienced the loss of someone dear or who want to feel pure love.
Why not surrender yourself to Ken Hirai’s voice as it gently seeps into your heart?
mysteryHoshino Gen95rank/position
This is the fourth digital-only single by singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, who has released numerous hit songs with his one-of-a-kind pop sensibility.
Written as the theme song for the TV drama “Why I Dress Up for Love,” the track leaves an impression with its pop yet sentimental atmosphere.
The fusion of sounds evocative of the late 1980s with a modern, complex chord progression results in an R&B piece for a new era that’s more than just nostalgic.
It’s a number that serves as a model of pop grounded in Black music, evoking both history and evolution.
WowHayashi Kazuki96rank/position
This is Kazuki Hayashi’s solo debut, where a melodious, sophisticated R&B sound resonates pleasantly.
Released in May 2023 as an advance single from the album “I,” the track paints the sweet moments of romance set against the backdrop of the nighttime city.
Its breezy rhythm and sultry vocals blend beautifully, resulting in a love song that exudes mature allure.
The music video faithfully recreates a classic R&B aesthetic, with dramatic direction that’s a highlight in itself.
It’s a song you’ll want to play on a drive or during a quiet night.
Highly recommended for those who want to feel the sparkle and bittersweetness of love.
HOMEShimizu Shota97rank/position
The debut song by Shota Shimizu, an important figure in Japan’s R&B scene, is a heartwarming piece that expresses feelings for his hometown and loved ones.
The lyrics, woven from his own experiences, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in February 2008, the single reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was later included on the album “Umbrella,” becoming a track that symbolizes Shimizu’s musical identity.
The work was also adapted for the stage in November 2015.
For those who feel loneliness and challenges in the city or a sense of nostalgia for their hometown, this song will surely offer courage and hope.
My WayMirei Touyama98rank/position
A song by singer-songwriter Mirei Toyama, who has also drawn attention for participating in works and live performances by the dance-vocal unit RADIO FISH.
It’s the title track of her first album, “My Way,” and was used as the ending theme for the music program “Cho Ryuha.” Her vocals, both transparent and soulful, sit atop an arrangement with a distinctly Black music flavor while retaining the familiar accessibility of J-pop, resulting in a compelling sound.
It’s a track that makes you feel the future of Black music in Japan—one you’ll want to keep listening to.