Bands & artists like Kyū Sakamoto

If you like Kyū Sakamoto, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

Artists to try next

Kenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu

Guide

Yonezu combines traditional Japanese sounds with modern pop, creating reflective melodies that resonate emotionally.

J-pop rock music
Masaharu Fukuyama

Masaharu Fukuyama

Fukuyama's music features soothing vocals and intricate arrangements that evoke a similar nostalgic atmosphere.

J-pop
Akiko Yano

Akiko Yano

Guide

Yano's blend of pop and jazz elements, along with her expressive piano work, creates a contemplative soundscape akin to Sakamoto's.

J-pop disco electronic music
Hikaru Utada

Hikaru Utada

Guide

Utada's emotive vocal delivery paired with lush production evokes a reflective mood reminiscent of Sakamoto's style.

J-pop contemporary R&B dance-pop
Rimi Natsukawa

Rimi Natsukawa

Guide

Natsukawa's gentle vocals and traditional influences create an intimate listening experience that parallels Sakamoto's soothing melodies.

J-pop Okinawan music enka
Yumi Matsutoya

Yumi Matsutoya

Guide

Matsutoya's poetic lyrics and melodic compositions offer a serene quality that aligns well with the reflective nature of Sakamoto's work.

J-pop city pop folk rock
Seiko Matsuda

Seiko Matsuda

Matsuda's soft pop ballads feature delicate instrumentation and soothing melodies that echo the calming essence of Sakamoto's music.

pop music
Toshinobu Kubota

Toshinobu Kubota

Kubota blends R&B with Japanese pop elements, creating smooth, reflective tracks that share a similar vibe to Sakamoto's work.

J-pop Japanese hip-hop Japanese reggae

Common questions

Who sounds like Kyū Sakamoto?

Artists similar to Kyū Sakamoto include Kenshi Yonezu, Masaharu Fukuyama, Akiko Yano and Hikaru Utada. Each shares elements of Kyū Sakamoto's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Kyū Sakamoto?

Kyū Sakamoto is primarily known for kayōkyoku. Sakamoto's music unfolds through soothing melodies layered over gentle rhythmic patterns, crafting a reflective atmosphere that lingers in the air.

Where should I start if I like Kyū Sakamoto?

If you enjoy Kyū Sakamoto, start with Kenshi Yonezu — their album "Yankee" is a great entry point. Yonezu combines traditional Japanese sounds with modern pop, creating reflective melodies that resonate emotionally.