[Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by V-kei bands from the 2000s
Visual kei, which reached its golden age in the 1990s and produced hits that ranked high on the Oricon charts, is now embraced overseas as a culture that transcends a Japanese music genre—so much so that the term “Visual kei” appears on Wikipedia.
Within the 30-plus-year history of V-kei, this article spotlights popular songs by the so-called “Neo-Visual Kei” bands of the 2000s.
We’ve compiled a selection of classics—hugely influential on today’s Visual kei bands—focusing on releases from the 2000s, spanning both major-label and indie acts.
Whether those years were your youth or you’ve only recently gotten into V-kei, enjoy!
- Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
- A classic masterpiece of visual kei. A staple and popular song representing V-kei rock.
- A collection of hit songs and classics that opened the door to 1990s Visual Kei
- Debut song of a 90s visual kei band
- Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
- A melancholic “yami” song that was a hit in the 2000s. A bittersweet track.
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- Nostalgic even though it’s recent? Iconic 2010s songs that went viral on TikTok
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- [Heisei Songs] Classic hits from the Heisei era that are popular on Instagram Reels
- Popular Heisei-era songs you can use on Instagram Stories
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
[Neo Visual Kei] Popular Songs by 2000s Visual Kei Bands (31–40)
Divine SongPhantasmagoria
Phantasmagoria is a rock band whose music draws on styles like alternative rock and metalcore, leaving a powerful impression on fans despite a brief six-year run.
Their 9th maxi single, “Kamiuta,” creates a hook through its sweeping, grand atmosphere and aggressive rock ensemble.
The recurring phrases generate an addictive quality that, while decadent, makes you want to hum along.
It’s an eccentric number that evokes the lineage of old-school visual kei.
Sunset and Childheidi.
This is a track by heidi., a visual kei band formed in 2006, with an addictive mix of a suspicious-sounding guitar riff and a bustling rhythm.
It was released the same year as the single “Sunset and Children/Maria.” The song expresses the anxiety and impatience felt in childhood.
Darkness in the rain, a decayed world.DEATHGAZE
This is a song by DEATHGAZE, a visual kei metal band from Aichi Prefecture.
The storm-like, intense metal sound is really cool.
It’s included on the single “294036224052,” released in 2004.
The Magic FluteKagrra
Kagrra is a five-member rock band that embraced a Neo-Japanesque style with a focus on Wa (traditional Japanese aesthetics), earning popularity with songs that carefully crafted both their worldview and sound.
The track “Mateki,” included on their first mini-album Nue, was later featured on the indie best-of album Kagrra Indies BEST 2000-2003.
Its hysterical guitar cutting and driving beats, combined with mysterious lyrics, create a distinctive, addictive pull.
It’s a cool rock tune that embodies a form of visual kei that evolves while carrying on the old-school tradition.
bangyaru syndromeJinkaku Rajio
A quintessential number of the 2000s that shines a light on fervent fan culture has arrived from Jinkaku Radio.
Marked by a light, poppy melody and vocals that are both powerful and delicate, this work portrays the heated atmosphere of live venues and cheers overflowing with pure feeling—an iconic song of the visual kei scene.
Gaining support as a hidden gem thanks to its distinctive approach, it was released as a limited-edition CD at a one-man show in November 2006.
Though it was venue-only and hard to obtain, its rarity makes it all the more alluring to fans.
The lyrics, depicting the earnest dedication of lining up at the merch booth and waiting through wind and rain, and the devoted love for the artist, will resonate with anyone who holds a straightforward passion for music.