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 (21–30)
Cruisin’ Cruisin’bonobos
A five-member band formed in 2001.
Their music, influenced by soul and reggae, is urban and refined, offering a sense of openness that feels like being gently drawn into the night sky.
The Japanese lyrics are also highly distinctive, slipping into the cracks of your heart before you even notice.
Tiger & DragonCRAZY KEN BAND
Formed in 1997.
They play deeply soulful music that truly embodies “Japanese soul,” fusing Shōwa-era kayōkyoku with soul music.
Their song “Tiger & Dragon” became widely known after being used as the theme song for a TV drama.
Recommended Japanese soul bands: Popular bands in Japan (31–40)
mistakesOvall
A three-piece band that plays cool, urban music infused with soul, jazz, and hip-hop.
Each member is a talented producer and trackmaker in their own right, involved in a wide range of music production and passionately supported by discerning listeners.
peace & loveLainy J Groove
We’re Lainy J Groove, a three-piece band from Kyoto delivering a “gritty urban soul in Japan.” Our sharp, sophisticated sound is crafted by three versatile members inspired by Sly & The Family Stone, and it’s infused with Kyoto’s distinctive, laid-back sense of humor.
To be happyFLYING KIDS
A seven-member funk band formed in 1988 and disbanded in 1998.
In 1989, they became the third Ikaten King on TBS’s popular show “Ika-su Band Tenkoku,” won five consecutive weeks to be crowned the first Grand King, and made their major debut with “Shiawase de Aru You ni.” Even now, their soulful music remains timeless and easy to listen to.
About Apples, Forrest Gump — What It Means to Keep RunningLee & Small Mountains
Originally formed as a band, it is now the solo project of vocalist Lee Hande.
The first album, “Curtain Nights,” was released in January 2017 on ROSE RECORDS, run by Keiichi Sokabe.
Its soulful, pop sound is sure to be loved by people of all ages.
riskKroi
Kroi is gaining attention for their musical style rooted in Black music, blending a wide range of genres including R&B, funk, soul, rock, and hip-hop.
Formed in February 2018, they rose to prominence by winning an audition out of roughly 3,000 groups and performing at Summer Sonic, among other remarkable achievements.
They made their major debut with the album “LENS” in June 2021, and in January 2024 held a one-man show at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo.
Each member brings a different musical background, drawing influence from a wide array of artists such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lauryn Hill, and Earth, Wind & Fire.
They’re a five-piece band perfect for music fans seeking a unique, genre-crossing mixture sound that transcends scene boundaries.