Artist Detailed Info: Kandytown

KANDYTOWN is a Japanese hip-hop collective active from 2012 to 2023, formed in Setagaya, Tokyo. Originally made up of 16 members — many of them childhood friends from the same neighborhood — the crew brought together rappers, DJs, and producers, including IO, Neetz, Holly Q (actor Shuhei Uesugi), Ryohu, KEIJU (also known as YOUNG JUJU and JUJU THE BLUNT), Dony Joint, Gottz, MUD, DIAN, DJ Weelow, DJ Minnesotah, MASATO, BSC, KIKUMARU, MIKI, and YUSHI.

The group released three studio albums, KANDYTOWN (2016), ADVISORY (2019) and LAST ALBUM (2022). Following the departure of members MIKI and KIKUMARU and the death of YUSHI, the crew continued for a time with 14 members before announcing their disbandment, closing out with a farewell "LAST TOUR" that concluded in Tokyo in December 2022/March 2023.

They are known for a laid-back "city boy" sound and style, KANDYTOWN built its reputation as a tight-knit group of friends rather than a traditional band, with IO often noted as a creative focal point. Their music blends hip-hop with elements of city pop, reflecting the atmosphere of growing up in Tokyo.

Despite disbanding, several members have gone on to notable solo careers, and KANDYTOWN's influence remains significant in the Japanese hip-hop scene.

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