Five Underrated J-Pop Groups You Should Be Listening To

By Elizabeth Webb for The J-Pop Exchange

J-pop, or Japanese pop music, has a wide variety of styles, from idol groups to alternative rock,and while some acts are internationally recognized, many promising groups fly under the radar.

Here are five underrated J-pop groups that deserve a spot on your playlist.

1. ONE OR EIGHT (一か八か / 1OR8)

Formed through the WARPs DIG – Battle Audition project, ONE OR EIGHT is an eight-member boy group making waves in the J-pop scene and the newest group on this list. Officially debuting in August 2024 with their energetic single “Don’t Tell Nobody,” the group offers a unique blend of global influences, thanks to their diverse training backgrounds. Members Souma, Mizuki,Tsubasa, Reia, Ryota, Takeru, Yuga, and Neo bring their own distinctive flair to the group, andtheir highly synchronized choreography paired with strong vocals sets them apart as rising stars.

Listen to: Don't Tell Nobody

2. Snow Man (スノーマン)

Despite forming over a decade ago in 2012, Snow Man remains an underrated gem in J-pop.

Their journey began as back dancers for other groups, but they broke out in 2020 with their double debut single “D.D.” / “Imitation Rain,” showcasing their dynamic dancing and vocal talent. Snow Man’s appeal lies in their ability to seamlessly blend traditional J-pop sounds with modern dance beats, creating high-energy performances. With members like Hikaru Iwamoto and Ren Meguro leading the charge, Snow Man’s steady rise in popularity is well-deserved.

Listen to: Dangerholic

3. onefive (ワンファイブ)

If you’re into empowering and stylish girl groups, onefive is a must-listen. This four-member group debuted in 2019 with “Pinky Promise” and has since built a reputation for their refined yet playful aesthetic. Their concept of "Japanese Classy Crush" appeals strongly to Generation Z, and the members are heavily involved in the creative process, from designing merchandise to organizing live performances. Their connection with their fans, known as “fifth,” is one of their strengths, making onefive a refreshing and original force in the J-pop world.

Listen to: Chance

4. WEST

Previously known as Johnny’s WEST, this seven-member group has evolved over the years since their debut in 2014. Known for their charismatic performances and catchy hits like “EEJANAIKA,” WEST. brings a combination of traditional J-pop idol charm with a modern edge.

Members, such as Daiki Shigeoka and Tomohiro Kamiyama, have become fan favorites thanks to their playful personalities and stage presence. WEST. also delivers consistently entertaining music videos and live shows, making them a solid pick for fans of boy groups looking for something upbeat and fun.

Listen to: Something New

5. Angerme (アンジュルム)

Angerme, formerly known as S/mileage, is a powerhouse girl group from Hello! Project. Despite being active for over a decade, they often remain underappreciated in the global J-pop scene.

Known for their versatility and constant reinvention, Angerme has cycled through multiple generations of members while still maintaining their energetic and vibrant sound. With their 2020 album Rinnetenshou, they solidified their position as a must-hear group, with tracks that span from high-tempo anthems to more introspective ballads.

Listen to: Aisubeki Beki Human Life

These five groups each bring something unique to the J-pop landscape, from bold debuts to polished performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or just getting started, they’re definitely worth a listen

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