Must-listen! Recommended! Spotlight on male solo artists in Western music
This time, we’re introducing male solo artists from Western music! Rather than a simple roundup, we’ve selected popular artists from each genre—hip-hop, rock, R&B, soul, and jazz.
In addition to their backgrounds, we explain in detail what makes them musically outstanding, covering techniques and musicality.
It’s put together so even longtime fans can enjoy it, so be sure to check it out!
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Must-listen! Recommended! Featured Western male solo artists (11–20)
GhostJustin Bieber
Justin Bieber is a U.
S.
-born singer who achieved worldwide success at the young age of 14.
Although he initially occupied a more idol-like position, he steadily honed his skills as his career progressed, and since entering the 2020s he has been showcasing authentic Black music.
His current musical style feels like a blend of hip-hop and R&B.
It’s fascinating to trace his career and see how much he has grown.
Be sure to check it out!
LuvTory Lanez
Tory Lanez, hailing from Canada, is a talented artist who moves fluidly between R&B and hip-hop.
He made his major debut in 2016 with his flagship album “I Told You,” achieving the remarkable feat of landing a track from the album at No.
19 on the Billboard Hot 100.
His prowess also earned him a Grammy nomination in 2017, and in the same year he won the Juno Award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year.
He coined his own style “Swavey,” blending genre-defying musicality with masterful use of Auto-Tune, weaving together a velvety singing voice and powerful rap.
In 2014, he founded his own label, One Umbrella, and has been active as a music producer as well.
He’s highly recommended for music fans exploring crossover sounds between R&B and hip-hop.
Yeah 3xChris Brown
Chris Brown is one of the most popular artists representing the R&B scene.
If you listen to overseas R&B in Japan, you probably know him.
His greatest appeal, above all, lies in his sensitive sensibilities.
While many artists who were active in the 2000s have stepped back from the forefront, Chris Brown alone continues to rank high on the charts.
Each of his works reflects the trends of its release period, so be sure to check them out in chronological order.
Slow HandsNiall Horan
Irish pop singer Niall Horan gained worldwide recognition as a member of the boy band One Direction and made his solo debut in 2017.
Influenced by Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles, he’s known for a warm vocal style that blends folk and pop.
He won Favorite Breakout Artist at the 2017 People’s Choice Awards and has collected numerous awards since.
His album Flicker reached No.
1 in both the United States and Ireland, proving his strength as a solo artist.
In 2023, he served as a coach on the popular audition show The Voice, leading a winner from his own team.
He’s a recommended artist for those who enjoy gentle vocals, guitar-driven performances, and songs with folk-pop elements.
CradlesSub Urban
Sub Urban is an artist who has achieved worldwide success with a music style centered on dark indie pop.
Among artists who broke out thanks to TikTok, he is one of the most successful.
His track Cradles is his signature work, and anyone younger has probably heard it at least once.
All of his songs carry a dark, gothic atmosphere, so if you like that vibe, he’s an artist that will really hit the spot.
Hotline BlingDrake
Drake, a rapper who stood out in the 2000s hip-hop scene with a strong sense of individuality, drew considerable attention.
He’s known for a highly melodic flow compared to typical rappers.
While many rappers who were popular in the 2000s have stepped back from the front lines, Drake is still actively at the forefront.
His keen sense for trends is one of his appealing qualities.
That said, he doesn’t simply lean into trap; rather, he adapts trends in his own way, so his distinctive character remains very much intact.
Must-listen! Recommended! Featured Western male solo artists (21–30)
Sexual HealingMarvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye, known as a revolutionary figure in soul music, debuted in 1961 and released numerous classics such as “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and “What’s Going On.” His achievements have been widely recognized, including receiving the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
His commitment to addressing social issues through music influenced many artists.
In the 1970s, as a pioneer of neo-soul, he made major contributions to the development of R&B.
His style—characterized by blending soul with various genres—can be seen as a root of contemporary Black music.
If you’re interested in soul music, be sure to check him out.