いきものがかり (Ikimono Gakari)

Ikimonogakari was a Japanese three-piece band formed in Kanagawa Prefecture, initially as a duo of Hotaka Yamashita and Yoshiki Mizuno in 1999, with vocalist Kiyoe Yoshioka joining shortly after to complete the lineup. Starting from independent releases and street performances, the group built a following through warm, melodic pop-rock songwriting centered on Yoshioka’s expressive, unmistakable voice.

The band made their major-label debut in 2007 with the album 桜咲く街物語, and went on to become one of the most commercially successful acts in Japanese pop music, known for anthemic, emotionally direct songs such as «ブルーバード (Blue Bird)», «YELL» and «ありがとう (Arigatou)». Their music frequently appeared as theme songs for major television programs and anime, including their well-known ties to NHK broadcasts, which helped cement their songs as part of mainstream Japanese popular culture.

Tracks like «SAKURA», «HANABI» and «ふたり (Futari)» showcase the group’s signature blend of uplifting melodies and earnest lyrics about everyday life, hope and human connection. Following Yamashita’s departure from frontline activities, Yoshioka and Mizuno continued the project, and Ikimonogakari remains remembered as a defining voice of 2000s and 2010s Japanese pop-rock.