Recommended Japanese soul bands. Popular bands in Japan.
Soul music, a genre born in the United States around 1950.
Developed on a foundation of gospel and blues, soul has grown into one of the major waves that can now be called a global standard.
Naturally, many soul music bands are active in Japan as well.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of Japanese soul bands.
It should give you a glimpse into a slice of the Japanese soul music scene.
Be sure to check it out to the end.
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Recommended Japanese soul bands. Popular Japanese bands (11–20)
HeadlightMime
“Headlight” is the first single of 2021 released by Mime, a Tokyo-based band.
Stepping a bit away from their previous ensemble-forward sound, this track features drum programming–like rhythms and a synth bass.
The song’s pop sensibility blends perfectly with vocalist Hikari’s voice, creating a distinctive sonic world.
While rooted in Black music, “Headlight” also showcases a broad musical range—it’s a track you should definitely hear!
Baka SurvivorUrufuruzu
Debuting in 1992, the one and only soul band that represents Japan is Ulfuls.
With vocalist Tortise Matsumoto’s powerful singing and a unique, approachable musical style loved by people of all ages, they’re a truly “standard” band.
Transistor radioRC sakuseshon
RC Succession is a rock band led by Kiyoshiro Imawano, known for a sound deeply influenced by the 1960s rock, funk, and soul that shaped Imawano.
They inspired numerous artists, including Hiroto Kōmoto and Kyosuke Himuro, and became a major topic among young people at the time.
Their single Transistor Radio, released on October 28, 1980, is a rock tune that lets you enjoy RC Succession’s performance as a live band!
FUNKY Oolong TeaSUPER BUTTER DOG
Formed in 1994 and disbanded in 2008, they were a five-piece funk band.
The vocalist, Takashi Nagazumi, is now active as a solo artist under the name Hanaregumi and is supported by many music fans for his unadorned singing voice.
The keyboardist, Takafumi Ikeda, now goes by the name Rekishi, churning out disco tunes themed around Japanese history and enjoying widespread popularity.
The Monster of Summertsuru
Formed in 2003 and making their major debut in 2008, they are a three-piece band from Saitama.
True to their tagline, “Ambassadors of Excitement & Bittersweetness,” they are active with a core sound of sparkling soul tunes and pop.
Known for their live performances, they embarked on a nationwide tour covering all 47 prefectures in 2015.
Dance at Nightfurenzu
Formed in 2015, Friends is a five-member co-ed “Shinsen-kei band.” They’ve gained popularity with groovy, sparkling city pop.
Their stylish, urban sound paired with lyrics that capture everyday life and refreshing vocals make their music very easy to listen to—and uplifting.
Recommended Japanese soul bands. Popular Japanese bands (21–30)
my juiceZuttodzureteruzu
They’re a funk band formed in 2008.
Zuttozureruz, formed by friends during their high school days, created music that blended funk and hip-hop with a level of polish that belied their age.
After disbanding, several members went on to form the band OKAMOTO’S, which remains active today.