City Pop artists are known for their unique blend of jazz, funk, and electronic elements. They often draw the urban lifestyle and romance of 1980s Japan.

This genre appeared during a period of rapid economic growth and technological development in Japan, indicating the country’s emerging economic boom and leisure class.

So, this blog covers the list of some of the key artists and characteristics of the genre.

Classic City Pop Artists

Classic City Pop artists shaped the smooth, jazz-infused pop sound of 1970s and 1980s Japan.

Legends like Tatsuro Yamashita, Mariya Takeuchi, and Anri created timeless hits that continue to impact modern music and inspire a new generation of listeners worldwide.

1. Tatsuro Yamashita

Tatsuro Yamashita is a legendary Japanese musician, singer-songwriter, and producer, often referred to as the King of City Pop.

His music, characterized by smooth melodies, detailed harmonies, and influences from jazz, funk, and AOR (Album-Oriented Rock), played a crucial role in shaping the City Pop genre.

2. Taeko Ohnuki

Taeko Ohnuki is a leading singer-songwriter and one of the most inspiring figures in the City Pop and Japanese pop music scene.

She began her career as a member of the band Sugar Babe alongside Tatsuro Yamashita before starting a successful solo career.

3. Mariya Takeuchi

Mariya Takeuchi is one of the most iconic figures in the City Pop genre. She is known for her smooth vocal style and timeless melodies.

Takeuchi gained widespread recognition with hits like Dream of You and Fushigi Na Peach Pie, but her most famous song, Plastic Love (1984), has become a global City Pop anthem.

Takeuchi’s effect extends beyond Japan, making her one of the genre’s most celebrated artists.

4. Miki Matsubara

Miki Matsubara is widely recognized as one of the defining voices of City Pop. Often referred to as the Queen of City Pop, she debuted with her album Pocket Park in 1979.

Matsubara’s music blended jazz, funk, and soft rock, contributing significantly to the genre’s signature sound. Her legacy continues to inspire artists both in Japan and internationally.

5. Anri

Anri is a well-known Japanese singer and a major figure in the City Pop movement. She debuted with her album Cat’s Eye in 1978 but rose to widespread fame with her 1983 album Timely!!, which included the hit “I Can’t Stop The Loneliness.”

Over the years, Anri’s work has gained cult status within the City Pop community.

Many of her tracks have been rediscovered by a new generation of listeners worldwide, and her contributions to the genre remain highly impactful.

6. Junko Ohashi

Junko Ohashi is a highly regarded Japanese singer known for her powerful and soulful vocals.

She debuted with her album Feeling Now in 1974 and became a major figure in the City Pop and J-pop scene.

Her music blends elements of jazz, pop, and funk, making her a standout artist in the genre. Ohashi’s emotive singing and Classy sound continue to inspire both Japanese and international audiences.

7. Kingo Hamada

Kingo Hamada is known for his smooth City Pop sound, which blends jazz, funk, and AOR (Album-Oriented Rock).

He debuted with his self-titled album Kingo Hamada in 1980 and gained further recognition with his 1982 album Midnight Cruisin, which featured the hit City Dolphin.

In recent years, his music has experienced a comeback, especially through remixes and international recognition on streaming platforms.

8. Tomoko Aran

Tomoko Aran is an amazing singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of City Pop, synth-pop, and new-wave Inspirations.

She debuted with her album Fuyu-Kukan in 1983, which featured a complex electronic sound that set her apart in the City Pop genre.

One of her most iconic songs, Midnight Pretenders, gained international recognition after being sampled by The Weeknd in his 2022 song Out of Time.

9. Junko Yagami

Junko Yagami is known for her expressive vocals and City Pop, jazz, and funk-infused sound.

She made her debut with the album Mizuiro no Ame in 1979, quickly establishing herself as a talented artist.

With a career spanning multiple decades, Yagami’s music remains highly regarded within the City Pop revival movement. Many of her songs are being rediscovered by new listeners worldwide.

10. Toshiki Kadomatsu

Toshiki Kadomatsu is a highly skilled singer-songwriter, producer, and composer widely recognized for his contributions to the City Pop genre.

He made his debut with the album Sea Breeze in 1981, showcasing his signature fusion of funk, jazz, and smooth AOR (Album-Oriented Rock).

Kadomatsu is not only known for his work but also for producing and writing for other artists, shaping the sound of City Pop throughout the 1980s and beyond.

Modern City Pop Artists

Modern City Pop artists like Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Khruangbin, and Toro y Moi blend retro funk, jazz, and electronic sounds with contemporary production.

Their music revives the smooth, groove-driven core of classic City Pop while adding fresh global influences.

11. Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Unknown Mortal Orchestra (UMO) is a New Zealand-based psychedelic rock band known for blending elements of funk, soul, and lo-fi creativity in their music.

Led by Ruban Nielson, the band has received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including the Taite Music Prize, solidifying their reputation as one of the most creative modern psychedelic acts.

12. Khruangbin

Khruangbin is a Texas-based trio known for their unique fusion of psychedelic rock, funk, soul, and world music influences.

They debuted with the album The Universe Smiles Upon You in 2015, drawing inspiration from Thai funk, Middle Eastern grooves, and vintage soul sounds.

Over the years, Khruangbin has received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a Grammy nomination, strengthening its status as one of the most creative instrumental bands of the modern era.

13. Toro y Moi

Toro y Moi, the stage name of Chaz Bear (formerly Chaz Bundick), is a singer, songwriter, and producer known for leading the chillwave movement.

His debut album, Causers of This (2010), introduced a unique blend of indie electronic, funk, and psychedelic pop, incorporating elements that can be seen as a modern interpretation of City Pop’s electronic impacts.

14. Yung Gud

Yung Gud is a Swedish music producer and DJ known for his dreamy, atmospheric soundscapes that blend electronic, hip-hop, and surrounding effects.

Rising to prominence as a member of Sad Boys, a collective led by rapper Yung Lean, he has designed a signature style that incorporates lush synth textures and sentimental melodies similar to City Pop’s smooth, emotive qualities.

Through collaborations with prominent international artists, Yung Gud has gained widespread recognition and impacted the modern electronic music landscape.

15. Mndsgn

Mndsgn (pronounced Mind Design) is a producer and musician known for his jazzy, laid-back beats that effortlessly blend elements of hip-hop, electronic, and funk.

Over the years, he has been recognized for his contributions to the electronic and hip-hop scenes, collaborating with artists such as Knxwledge and Anderson Paak.

His music often incorporates warm synth textures and rhythm, making him a modern artist with a distinct connection to City Pop’s mellow and sentimental feel.

16. Mild High Club

Mild High Club is a musical project led by Alexander Brettin. It is known for blending jazz, funk, and psychedelic elements to create a distinctive, dreamy sound.

Over the years, they have gained widespread recognition for their genre-defying approach, collaborating with artists such as King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard.

Their warm, groovy melodies and laid-back production style make them a modern act with similarities to City Pop’s mellow and classy vibe.

17. Vulfpeck

Vulfpeck is a funk band known for its tight grooves, retro-inspired sound, and creative approach to music distribution.

Formed in 2011, they debuted with their self-titled album Vulfpeck, quickly gaining a reputation for their energetic live performances and minimalist yet highly polished funk sound.

The band has also gained recognition for its experimental release strategies, including the famous Sleepify album, which was designed to generate streaming revenue.

Conclusion

Even today, artists from around the world take inspiration from City Pop, keeping its spirit alive.

City Pop artists have created music that feels warm, smooth, and timeless. Their songs mix jazz, funk, pop, and electronic sounds, making them easy to enjoy.

Some, like Tatsuro Yamashita and Mariya Takeuchi, became legends, while others, like Tomoko Aran and Anri, brought fresh ideas to the genre.

The music is catchy, relaxing, and full of emotion, making it a favorite for both old and new listeners.