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Spitz

Spitz is a Japanese rock band formed in 1987 in Tokyo.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Spitz is a Japanese rock band formed in 1987 in Tokyo. The quartet is known for melodic alternative and pop rock songs, and became widely popular in Japan through the 1990s and beyond. Their breakthrough included the 1995 single “Robinson” and the 1995 album *Hachimitsu*.

History

Spitz formed in Tokyo in 1987 and released their debut album in 1991. Their commercial breakthrough came in the mid-1990s, particularly with the single “Robinson” and the album *Hachimitsu*. The band has remained active for decades.

Music style

The band is generally described as a rock group with alternative and pop rock tendencies. Sources also note influences ranging from British rock to punk, grunge, and shoegaze.

Band members

The core lineup consists of vocalist and guitarist Masamune Kusano, guitarist Tetsuya Miwa, bassist Akihiro Tamura, and drummer Tatsuo Sakiyama. This four-member formation is consistently identified across available sources.

Cultural impact

Spitz became one of Japan’s most recognizable rock acts, with several songs used in television dramas, anime, films, and commercials. Their long career and chart success have helped establish them as a major mainstream Japanese band. According to streaming-service artist notes, the band has sold more than 20 million records.

Key facts

  • The band formed in 1987 and has remained active for decades.
  • Spitz’s lineup has been centered on Masamune Kusano, Tetsuya Miwa, Akihiro Tamura, and Tatsuo Sakiyama.
  • Their debut album *Spitz* was released in 1991.
  • They gained major popularity in Japan in the mid-1990s, especially after the success of “Robinson” and *Hachimitsu*.
  • Spitz is regarded as one of Japan’s leading rock acts and has sold more than 20 million records.
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Canadian context

Spitz has relevance for Canadian readers mainly through international J-pop and rock fandom, streaming platforms, and Japanese popular-culture export consumption in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is Spitz?
Spitz is a Japanese rock band formed in Tokyo in 1987.
Who are the members of Spitz?
The core lineup is Masamune Kusano, Tetsuya Miwa, Akihiro Tamura, and Tatsuo Sakiyama.
What is Spitz best known for?
The band is best known for songs such as “Robinson” and for its 1995 breakthrough album *Hachimitsu*.
When did Spitz release its debut album?
Their debut album, *Spitz*, was released in 1991.
What kind of music does Spitz play?
Spitz is usually classified as rock, with alternative rock and pop rock elements.

References

  1. Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/ae/artist/spitz/74456960
    Supports: Formation year, origin, genre, and overview of the band’s style and early influences.
  2. Last.fmhttps://www.last.fm/music/%E3%82%B9%E3%83%94%E3%83%83%E3%83%84/+wiki
    Supports: Band members, formation year, debut album, and general biography.
  3. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spitz_(album)
    Supports: Debut album title, release year, and album significance.
  4. AllMusichttps://www.allmusic.com/artist/spitz-mn0000389902
    Supports: General description of the band as a Japanese alternative outfit with chart success.