From J-pop superstars to genre-bending innovators, Japan’s music scene is bursting with talent that’s captivating listeners all over the world. Whether it’s anime anthems, iconic rock bands, or cutting-edge electronic sounds, Japanese artists have carved out a powerful presence on Spotify. Their follower counts are a clear sign of that growing global impact.
In this list, we highlight the 30 most followed Japanese artists on the platform. Some have been shaping the music world for decades, while others are fresh faces with viral momentum. Either way, each one plays a part in bringing Japanese music to a worldwide audience.
Quick Overview of the Top 30
- Joji
- YOASOBI
- OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM
- Kenshi Yonezu
- Ado
- Aimyon
- ONE OK ROCK
- back number
- Mrs. GREEN APPLE
- RADWIMPS
- Fujii Kaze
- Hikaru Utada
- King Gnu
- Mr.Children
- LiSA
- Vaundy
- Yorushika
- Yuuri
- SEKAI NO OWARI
- Aimer
- ARASHI
- SPITZ
- Eve
- GReeeeN
- BABYMETAL
- Hatsune Miku
- SOUTHERN ALL STARS
- SUDA MASAKI
- Gen Hoshino
- ZUTOMAYO
#1 – Joji
Originally known for his comedy, Joji has reinvented himself as a master of melancholic alt-R&B. His atmospheric sound and emotional lyrics have earned him a massive global following.
- Followers on Spotify: 10M+
#2 – YOASOBI
YOASOBI creates songs inspired by short stories, blending pop with electronic elements. Their imaginative approach and emotional storytelling have captured the hearts of millions.
- Followers on Spotify: 8M+
#3 – OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM
This pop-rock band is known for catchy hooks, emotional ballads, and soaring vocals. They have become one of Japan’s most beloved acts on both radio and streaming platforms.
- Followers on Spotify: 7M+
#4 – Kenshi Yonezu
A true musical visionary, Kenshi Yonezu blends pop, rock, and electronic styles with poetic lyrics. His work resonates deeply with fans in Japan and around the world.
- Followers on Spotify: 6M+
#5 – Ado
Ado took the internet by storm with her powerful vocals and energetic style. Her anime-inspired aesthetic and bold sound have made her one of Japan’s breakout stars.
- Followers on Spotify: 5M+
#6 – Aimyon
With her acoustic charm and heartfelt lyrics, Aimyon brings a refreshing simplicity to modern J-pop. Her honest songs feel deeply personal and relatable.
- Followers on Spotify: 5M+
#7 – ONE OK ROCK
Known for their explosive energy and English-language songs, ONE OK ROCK has built a loyal international fanbase. Their blend of rock and emo-pop hits hard on stage and in the studio.
- Followers on Spotify: 5M+
#8 – back number
back number is all about emotional ballads and soft rock anthems. Their songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia.
- Followers on Spotify: 5M+
#9 – Mrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs. GREEN APPLE stands out with vibrant arrangements and youthful energy. Their creative sound fuses pop, rock, and funk into something uniquely uplifting.
- Followers on Spotify: 5M+
#10 – RADWIMPS
Best known for their work on anime films like Your Name, RADWIMPS mixes poetic lyrics with experimental rock. Their music often feels cinematic and deeply emotional.
- Followers on Spotify: 4M+
#11 – Fujii Kaze
Fujii Kaze brings soul and funk into the J-pop space with ease. His smooth vocals and creative flair have quickly made him a standout artist.
- Followers on Spotify: 4M+
#12 – Hikaru Utada
A legend in J-pop history, Hikaru Utada has been shaping the genre since the late 90s. Her influence stretches far beyond Japan thanks to her timeless music and global appeal.
- Followers on Spotify: 3M+
#13 – King Gnu
With a sound that defies genre, King Gnu combines classical music with rock and pop in a way that feels bold and innovative. They are one of the most exciting bands in Japan today.
- Followers on Spotify: 3M+
#14 – Mr.Children
For over three decades, Mr.Children has delivered heartfelt rock ballads and pop hits. Their consistent presence in Japanese music is nothing short of iconic.
- Followers on Spotify: 3M+
#15 – LiSA
LiSA became a household name through anime theme songs like Gurenge. Her powerful voice and rock-pop style make her a favorite among anime fans and beyond.
- Followers on Spotify: 3M+
#16 – Vaundy
Vaundy is a rising multi-talented producer and singer who fuses pop, hip-hop, and indie vibes. His creativity and versatility have quickly caught fire on streaming platforms.
- Followers on Spotify: 3M+
#17 – Yorushika
Known for their poetic lyrics and emotional depth, Yorushika creates music that feels both introspective and cinematic. Their storytelling leaves a lasting impression.
- Followers on Spotify: 3M+
#18 – Yuuri
Yuuri’s emotional vocals and relatable lyrics have struck a chord with a younger audience. His songs often explore love, loss, and personal growth.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#19 – SEKAI NO OWARI
This eclectic band mixes pop, electronic, and orchestral elements into theatrical soundscapes. Their fantasy-like music is matched by visually stunning performances.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#20 – Aimer
Aimer’s unique, raspy voice brings a haunting beauty to her songs. Known for emotional ballads and anime themes, she delivers pure atmosphere with every track.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#21 – ARASHI
As one of Japan’s most beloved idol groups, ARASHI spent decades topping charts with feel-good pop. Even during their hiatus, their legacy continues to grow online.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#22 – SPITZ
SPITZ has been crafting gentle, melodic rock since the 90s. Their nostalgic sound and poetic lyrics have earned them lasting respect in Japan’s music world.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#23 – Eve
Eve combines haunting vocals with stunning animated visuals. His songs often explore surreal themes, and his music is deeply tied to anime culture.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#24 – GReeeeN
This vocal group is known for uplifting melodies and positive vibes. Despite keeping their identities hidden, their feel-good music speaks volumes.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#25 – BABYMETAL
BABYMETAL blends J-pop cuteness with heavy metal chaos. Their one-of-a-kind sound and theatrical performances have turned them into a global phenomenon.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#26 – Hatsune Miku
More than a virtual idol, Hatsune Miku is a cultural icon. With millions of user-generated songs, she represents a new era of collaborative music.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#27 – SOUTHERN ALL STARS
With decades of hits under their belt, SOUTHERN ALL STARS are legends in Japanese rock and pop. Their music spans generations and remains incredibly influential.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#28 – SUDA MASAKI
Known first as an actor, SUDA MASAKI made a seamless leap into music. His soft rock and pop songs showcase a natural emotional depth and charm.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#29 – Gen Hoshino
Gen Hoshino brings warmth and whimsy to every track. His unique voice and playful style have made him a beloved figure in both music and film.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
#30 – ZUTOMAYO
Shrouded in mystery, ZUTOMAYO pairs animated visuals with genre-blending music. Their polished production and introspective lyrics continue to draw in curious fans.
- Followers on Spotify: 2M+
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Sources: Spotify