A 90s girls' band. A popular Japanese band.
In the 2020s, all-female bands are thriving in Japan across pop, rock, and metal scenes.
Back in the 1980s, during the band boom, groups that dominated the mainstream—like Princess Princess and SHOW-YA—also emerged.
So what kinds of girls’ bands appeared and flourished in the 1990s? While there weren’t as many as there are today, there were a great many distinctive bands.
In this article, we’ll focus on the history of 1990s girls’ bands, including those formed in the late ’80s and those still active today!
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90s girl bands. Popular Japanese bands (41–50)
The girl knows.sakura sakura
In the late 1980s, the five-piece band Sakura Sakura from Kanazawa, Ishikawa, burst onto the scene as a girls’ rock band that added vivid color to the music landscape of the time.
While rooted in rock, their hallmark sound skillfully blended the accessibility of pop and J-pop.
In 1991, they made their major-label debut with the single “Onna no Ko wa Shitteiru” (“Girls Know Everything”), which became widely loved as one of the band’s signature songs.
That same year they released the album “Girls Know Everything,” followed by “Sweet Emotion” in 1992, reflecting their energetic pace of activity.
Notably, even before their debut, they received the Junior Silver Prize at the Yamaha Popular Song Contest in September 1986, an early recognition of their talent.
The vocalist, Misae Takamatsu, also performed a popular anime’s ending theme, showcasing her voice as a solo artist.
Their lyrics, which resonated with women of the time, and their powerful performances still brim with fresh appeal today.
If you want to experience the distinctive brilliance of 1990s girls’ bands, this is a group you should definitely check out.
(GIVE THEM A) BIG BREAKmesukarin doraivu
MESCALIN DRIVE went through frequent member changes, but many people were captivated by their powerful performances.
Hideo Itami, the original guitarist, is now active as part of Soul Flower Union.
rinsePapaya Paranoia
Papaya Paranoia, led by bassist and vocalist Yumiko Ishijima, is a girls’ band that gained popularity in the 1980s indie scene with a powerful individuality and outstanding musicianship.
They began in 1983 under the predecessor band Neko Odori, and in 1985 they made a full-fledged debut by contributing a track under the name Papaya Paranoia to the omnibus release As in the City Where the Rain Falls, produced by Koichi Makigami of Hikashu.
In their early days, all members wore kimono; starting with Yumiko Ishijima, who sang while executing intricate bass lines, the sound crafted by these highly skilled musicians was entirely unlike conventional rock, yet somehow irresistibly catchy.
Alongside Rinse—the song featured here—tracks like Catcher in Isetan showcase lyrics born from a uniquely offbeat perspective.
Their recordings are relatively easy to find, and they’re a highly recommended band!
evening calmNav Katze
Debuting in 1984, Nerve Katze were a defining presence in the dawn of Japanese girls’ bands.
Their first release on the SWITCH label was produced by Moonriders’ Toru Okada, drawing attention for its innovative worldview and distinctive sonic style.
In particular, Miwako Yamaguchi’s vocals were refined yet full of emotion, leaving a lasting impression and continuing to captivate listeners.
Leading the movement of the time, their songs are still loved by many fans today, shining with a timeless allure.
The band’s emotional melodic lines and irresistibly groovy rhythms will take you right back to the girls’ band boom of the ’80s.
If you come across their records on the shelf, be sure to pick one up.
Spiral Danceindo neko
Debuting in 1986 and active until 1991, Indo-Neko was a band that pursued a unique musical identity centered on a new wave/post-punk sound.
With albums like “Mercurius” and “Lemnos no Tsuchi,” they left a fresh imprint on Japan’s band scene.
Their music, imbued with a shadowy sense of danger, powerfully draws listeners in.
Distinct from other girl bands, their singular allure still shines vividly today.
Their recordings are available on streaming services, so if you want to explore the early ’90s and ’80s Japanese music scenes, be sure to check them out.
festivaltsushimamire
Formed in 1999, TsuShiMaMiRe is an all-girl band known for a musical style that centers on rock while embracing a wide range of genres.
They rose to prominence in the 2000s, drawing attention for their originality and innovation.
Their energetic live performances have captivated many fans, and they have been active at festivals both in Japan and abroad.
The album released on June 17, 2009, is a work packed with their distinctive sound and strong messages.
TsuShiMaMiRe’s music is recommended for listeners who appreciate the authentic appeal of rock while seeking something fresh.
In conclusion
As mentioned at the outset, all-female bands—especially those active around the 1990s—were not particularly numerous compared to today.
That is precisely why the women who carved out a unique presence and kept on fighting, and continue to do so, in a male-dominated rock industry still shine brilliantly even now.
I’d be delighted if this article served as a catalyst for you to discover a new girls’ band!