Back to the Roots: Favorite Jpop Artists & What am I Listening to now?

Before I got into Kpop, I was into Jpop. I haven’t kept up with Jpop in years, so this will be more of a throwback post. But these artists will always have a special place in my heart.

Nowadays, I still listen to Japanese songs but from a variety of different artists. I’ll give these songs a special shoutout at the end of this post.

Now, without further ado, here are some my favorite Jpop artists.

Arashi

I found out about Arashi through Hana Yori Dango. I loved the opening song (Love So Sweet) so much that I had to know who the artist was. And that was when it all started.

Arashi are legends. It’s crazy to think that they’ve debuted back in the 90’s, and they’re still around making music. I hope BTS will also be around for this long.

If you’re a fan of Arashi, you’ve surely heard their hits: One Love, Love So Sweet, and more. I was in love with Love So Sweet for so long. Recently, the group released a Japanese and English mix version of both songs, and there was so. much. nostalgia.

I really like the language mix. It’s like adding extra spice to the song.

I don’t keep up with Arashi. There was a moment where I completely forgot about them. But some of the members have starred in Japanese dramas I have watched, so I would always be reminded of them. Jun and Ohno had a lot of success as actors.

I hope Arashi continues for a long time in the entertainment industry. They’re truly veterans and I’m glad they’re also seeing success in other areas.

YUI

I don’t remember how I discovered YUI. I found her music when I was in junior high school. I had an unhealthy obsession with Life and Rolling Star.

I live for the early 2000s vibe.

UVERworld

I was never into Bleach, but my friend was. I think that was how I discovered UVERworld, since they sang the opening. I don’t usually like rock music, but these guys are an exception. D-Tecno Life and Colors of the Heart are two songs I remember I had on constant replay.

Utada Hikaru

Utada Hikaru is a legend. I had so many of her songs on my playlists. My favorites are First Love, A Prisoner of Love, Simple and Clean, Flavor of Life, and Automatic. She’s truly an inspiration.

Nowadays, I really like Goodbye Happiness, Forevermore, and Play a Love Song.

This woman’s been through a lot, and I’m glad to see she’s still going strong.

m-flo

I was never a fan of rap. Back then, I was really into BoA’s music. When she did a collaboration, I had to check it out no matter who it was with. And that was when I discovered m-flo, and, well, I was blown away.

Love Bug will always be a favorite.

We also can’t forget about Bump Bump.

What am I listening to nowadays?

I’ve discovered more Japanese artists over the years, and here are some my recent favorites.

Sun – Hoshino Gen

Hoshino Gen starred in We Married as a Job and I adored his character. When I later found out that he was also a singer, there were so many songs that I loved. Sun is a personal favorite. Another one I really enjoy is Koi, the ending song to We Married as a Job.

Lemon – Kenshi Yonezu

I forgot how I stumbled upon this masterpiece. But, I am so happy that I did. Lemon’s chill and mellow vibe makes it a perfect song to listen to on a rainy day.

202 – Lovely SummerChan feat. 泉まくら

Oh. My. God. I instantly fell in love with this song when I first heard it. The bass slaps, and I live for this chill vibe.

Relax & Chill – Nissy

Nissy is my favorite from AAA. So, I obviously had to check out his solo stuff. This song is one of my favorites. Loving the summer vibe.

You – Haruma Miura

I discovered this song when Haruma was still around. And now, it hits differently. Rest in peace, Haruma.

What are you listening to?

Let me know some of your favorite Japanese artists. I’m always looking to expand my playlist.