Many people around the world may have become interested in J-POP through Japanese anime or connecting with global users on social media.
While K-POP has recently dominated discussions in Asia, J-POP boasts a unique collection of songs that blend distinctive tastes. These songs enjoy enduring popularity not just among Japanese audiences but also internationally.
This article will outline J-POP and introduce seventeen globally popular Japanese singers who have made significant impacts worldwide.
1.About J-POP
J-POP, short for “Japanese Pop,” refers to popular music produced in Japan. The term originated in 1988 when radio stations, previously dedicated to Western music, began airing Japanese music that matched the tempo, chord progressions, and rhythms of international tracks, thus coining the term “Japanese Pop.”
J-POP has evolved significantly since then, especially after 1993 when the term became mainstream. Incorporating elements of techno, trance, and R&B, J-POP transformed significantly, becoming the main genre of the Japanese music industry.Now, approximately 30 years later, J-POP not only dominates the Japanese music scene but also enjoys international acclaim.
2.Seventeen Famous Japanese Singers
Many people might have developed an interest in J-POP through the theme songs of Japanese dramas and anime, or viral tracks on video-centric social networks.
Here, we will detail seventeen popular Japanese artists, ranging from youthful to adult fan bases, complete with profiles and signature songs. If any artist catches your eye, give their music a listen!
2-1.YOASOBI
YOASOBI, a duo consisting of vocalist Ikura and composer Ayase, made their debut in November 2019. Though relatively new, they gained rapid fame with their debut song “Racing into the Night,” which quickly became a global hit.
In April 2023, their song “Idol,” the opening theme for the anime “Oshi no Ko,” exploded and gained worldwide popularity.
2-2.Kenshi Yonezu
Kenshi Yonezu debuted in May 2012 with the album “diorama.” Before his debut, he was known as “Hachi” on the Japanese video-sharing platform “Nico Nico Douga,” where he posted original songs.
His signature song “Lemon,” which poignantly addresses the pain of losing a loved one, has been used as a theme for a Japanese drama and has garnered over 850 million views as of April 2024.
2-3.LiSA
LiSA, who debuted in April 2011 with the mini-album “Letters to U,” is known for her powerful vocals and has performed numerous songs for anime.
Among her many popular tracks, “Gurenge,” the theme song for the anime film “Demon Slayer,” stands out, beloved by fans worldwide.
2-4.Ado
１st Album『狂言』
— Ado (@ado1024imokenp) October 23, 2021
2022年1月26日に発売決定しました。
ジャケットはORIHARAさん @ewkkyorhr です。
そして本日より各店舗にて予約もスタートしました。
詳しくはアルバム特設サイトをご覧下さい……https://t.co/K5LfkkTDct#Ado #Ado狂言 #Adobum pic.twitter.com/V3lczGcv80
Ado debuted in October 2020 with the song “Usseewa.” Known for her impressive vocal range and expressive abilities, she maintains a mysterious persona by not revealing her face, which has intrigued many fans.
Her tracks include the theme song for the anime film “One Piece” and a theme for the Halloween event at Universal Studios Japan. Her debut song “Usseewa” is a must listen to truly appreciate her charm.
2-5.SEKAI NO OWARI
SEKAI NO OWARI, featuring vocalist Fukase and three other members, is known for its unique lyrical expressions and catchy melodies, attracting a diverse fan base.
Their representative song “Habit” became famous for its dance choreography featured in the music video, which sparked a dance trend on TikTok.
2-6.Yorushika
Yorushika, a duo consisting of vocalist suis and composer n-buna, made their major debut in 2019. Known for their anonymity and poetic lyrics paired with crystal-clear vocals, they quickly captivated a large audience.
Their most popular song, “It’s Sunny Just for You,” portrays the feelings of those left behind as adults.
2-7.Hikaru Utada
Hikaru Utada debuted in December 1998 with the single “Automatic/time will tell” at the age of 15. Despite her young age, her overwhelming expressiveness quickly made her a star. Even 25 years after her debut, her songs continue to resonate across generations.
Her signature song “First Love” depicts the poignant feelings following a first love and remains a top hit on music streaming services.
2-8. yama
北海道1日目
— yama (@douhwe) April 4, 2024
まだ雪が残っているのに驚いたけど、
ライブは熱かった。
楽しい夜をありがとう
#yama_TOUR2024 pic.twitter.com/mwecBDnHYy
yama debuted in October 2020 with the single “Masshiro” and remains one of the most enigmatic J-POP artists, with undisclosed personal details such as gender and age. Her representative song “Haru o Tsugeru” has been widely used on TikTok as a background track for numerous videos.
2-9. Official HIGE DANDISM
Official HIGE DANDISM, a four-member male band, debuted in April 2015 with the mini-album “Love and Peace is Inside You.” Known for their unique style and energy, they have captured a youthful audience.
Their song “Pretender” is celebrated not just as a song of unrequited love but for the variety of emotions it evokes among listeners.
2-10. Yuuri
Yuuri, a male singer-songwriter, achieved mainstream success with the single “Peter Pan” in August 2020. Known from his pre-debut track “Kakurenbo” shared on various social networks, his attractive looks and music quickly won over the younger generation.
His representative song “Dry Flower” continues the narrative of “Kakurenbo”, but from a female perspective.
2-11. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu debuted in August 2011 with the mini-album “Moshi Moshi Harajuku.” Known for her unique and flamboyant fashion, she embodies the spirit of Harajuku culture.
Her representative song “PONPONPON” carries a message of walking one’s own path.
2-12. BUMP OF CHICKEN
BUMP OF CHICKEN, a four-member male rock band, debuted in September 2000 with the single “Diamond.” All members have been friends since kindergarten, which is a unique aspect of their band. Despite facing challenges such as a temporary hiatus of their bassist, they have continued to perform nationwide tours as a quartet.
Their hit song “Tentai Kansoku” remains beloved across generations more than 20 years after its release.
2-13. Aimer
Aimer made her major debut in September 2011 with the single “Rokutousei no Yoru.” Known for her husky voice that combines clarity with depth, she has gained substantial popularity, especially with a younger fanbase.
Aimer’s representative song, “Zankyou Sanka,” has been used as the opening theme for the globally beloved anime “Demon Slayer.”
2-14. ONE OK ROCK
ONE OK ROCK, a male band of four, debuted in April 2007 with the single “Naihi Shinsho.” Known for their aggressive live performances in Japan’s live houses and festivals, they now also tour in America and Europe under an international label.
Their representative song “The Beginning” is famous internationally, especially as the theme for the live-action film adaptation of “Rurouni Kenshin.”
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2-15. Mrs. GREEN APPLE
Originally a five-member band, Mrs. GREEN APPLE debuted in July 2015 with the mini-album “Variety.” After announcing a hiatus in July 2020 to mark the end of “Phase 1” of their activities, they resumed in March 2022 as a trio, launching “Phase 2.”
“Ao to Natsu” from their “Phase 1” era remains one of their signature songs.
2-16. Mafumafu
今週のがんばり次第で、週末に動画投稿があるかもしれませぬ…( ⌯₄⌯) ᐝ
— まふまふ＠みかん (@uni_mafumafu) March 4, 2024
そういえばこの前撮影してきました
懐かしい服をたくさん着たので置いておきます pic.twitter.com/t53NmvUeky
Since December 2010, Mafumafu has been active primarily on Nico Nico Douga as a singer. He enjoys immense popularity with younger people online and even performed in the prestigious “Kohaku Uta Gassen” in 2021. His representative song, “Hated by Life Itself,” which a renowned music producer composed, has captured hearts.
2-17. Minami
Minami, who debuted in January 2019 with the single “Kawaki wo Ameku,” is influenced by the legendary Japanese rocker Yutaka Ozaki. Known for her powerful and emotional vocal performances, she quickly became a hit.
“Kawaki wo Ameku” is not only her debut but also her most iconic track.
Conclusion
J-POP features a diverse array of artists, each with a unique style and vibe, spanning from popular pop tunes to rock, jazz, and Latin influences. Exploring J-POP involves not just appreciating the music, but also delving into each artist’s world, often leading fans to discover more about their favorite singers and deepen their appreciation for the genre.
*This article is based on information available as of April 2024.
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