Kawaii on the Mic: 5 of my favourite Japanese Musicians That Will Make Your Singing Sugoi! (and my 3 songs for each to get you started)

As a vocal sensei, I am always on the lookout for great musicians to inspire my students. My obsession with everything Japan is now pretty well known from learning Japanese to watching almost every anime, I have done it all. And let me tell you, when it comes to music, nobody does it quite like the Japanese. From pop idols to rock legends, the Land of the Rising Sun has produced some of the most talented and entertaining musicians on the planet. In this article, I'll introduce you to five Japanese musicians that every singer should listen to and give you 3 songs from each of them to get started. You can learn a lot from them, from singing techniques to vocal production to songwriting, a lot!

---

Vickeblanka:

Let's start with Vickeblanka, a singer-songwriter who is known for his quirky and upbeat music. His songs are full of catchy hooks and clever lyrics that will get stuck in your head for days. He can also change into multiple languages specially when you are not paying attention, throwing your brain into a frenzy. If you want to learn how to write a great pop song, Vickeblanka is the guy to listen to. Plus, his unique sense of style is sure to inspire your own fashion choices. He surely inspired mine. Songs to get you started:

Song 1: Black Catcher

Song 2: Ca Va?

Song 3: Black Rover

---

LiSa:

If you're a fan of anime, you may already be familiar with LiSa. She has provided the theme songs for some of the most popular anime series of recent years, including "Demon Slayer” and wait a minute, has also sung a song for Spider Man: Across the Spiderverse. Whaat?

But even if you're not an anime or a superhero fan, you can't deny LiSa's incredible vocal range and high-energy performances. She is an impressive vocalist that you should be idolising and learning from. She's like a human firecracker, and listening to her will give you the motivation you need to bring your own performances to the next level. Watch her perform live to learn some on-stage tricks too.

Songs to get you started:

Song 1: Gurenge

Song 2: Crossing Fields

Song 3: Homura

---

Ikimono-gakari:

For a more mellow vibe, check out Ikimono-gakari. This folk-pop trio has been making music since 1999, and their gentle harmonies and acoustic arrangements are perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon. You might know their song Blue Bird from Naruto, fun fact, I have sung it too with KAPOW! at Comic Con Mumbai in full Japanese, an accomplishment I am extremely proud of. Now, don't let their laid-back sound fool you - Ikimono-gakari knows how to write a killer hook, and their songs have a way of sneaking up on you and making you sing along. I am a culprit of doing this & their songs have been a constant companion of mine as I was learning Japanese.

Songs to get you started:

Song 1: Blue Bird

Song 2: Arigatou

Song 3: Hanabi

---

Burnout Syndrome:

If you're looking for something a little more rockin', Burnout Syndrome is the band for you and for me. They have been part of my workout playlists, songs I have been singing, making covers of and learning Japanese through. Their high-energy blend of rock, punk, and pop is perfect for getting me pumped up before a big performance. And with song titles like "Fly High!!" and "Hikari Are," you know you're in for some serious inspiration. The lyrics are also some of the most beautiful ones, I discovered them through Haikyuu and have never looked back! They have Moonlight versions of their most popular hits which are just dream come true.

Songs to get you started:

Song 1: Fly High!!

Song 2: Hikari Are

Song 3: Phoenix

---

Hikaru Utada:

Last but not least, we have Hikaru Utada. Often referred to as the "Queen of Japanese Pop," Utada has been a force in the music industry since the late 90s. Her smooth, sultry voice is the perfect vehicle for her R&B and electronic-infused pop songs. Plus, she's bilingual, so you can learn some Japanese while you listen. I surely have been doing that!

Songs to get you started:

Song 1: Beautiful World

Song 2: First Love

Song 3: Flavor of Life

---

So there you have it, five Japanese musicians that every singer should listen to and our approved by Eternalramblings. Whether you're into pop, rock, folk, or R&B, there's something on this list for everyone. So go ahead and give them a listen - your ears (and your sensei) will thank you! Also, if you have some favourites, send them right now. I will be highly disappointed in you if you don’t. I’m waiting…