Kayokyoku

Kayokyoku is a Japanese music genre, which served as the prevailing style of mainstream pop in Japan from the 1950s until the 1980s, when it was supplanted by J-Pop. The term "kayokyoku" literally translates to "pop song" and it's characterized by its melodious tunes and fusion of Western musical elements with traditional Japanese music. The genre often encompasses a wide emotional range, from sweet ballads to more upbeat numbers, reflecting the versatility of its artists, such as Off Course's harmonious folk-pop, Yosui Inoue's lyrical depth, and Pink Lady's catchy disco-influenced beats. Featuring poetic lyrics and clear, expressive vocals, kayokyoku laid the foundation for contemporary Japanese pop, becoming a bridge between the old and new in Japan's rich musical tapestry.

Latest Kayokyoku Release
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め組のひと (2025 Ver.)
Single - Released April 12, 2025
Top Artists Spotify Logo
Anri
Mariya Takeuchi
Masaharu Fukuyama
Every Little Thing
Anzen Chitai
Yumi Matsutoya
Top Playlists
The Sound of Classic City Pop 116 Kayokyoku artists
The Sound of Okinawan Pop 12 Kayokyoku artists
The Sound of J-Acoustic 12 Kayokyoku artists
The Needle / Japan 3 Kayokyoku artists
The Needle / Japan - Current 3 Kayokyoku artists
The Sound of Japanese Heavy Metal 3 Kayokyoku artists

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  1. April 12, 2025
  2. April 11
  3. April 9
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  27. January 8
  28. January 2
  29. January 1
  30. December 31, 2024
  31. December 26
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  36. December 11
  37. December 6
  38. November 27
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  40. November 27