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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Girls’ bands of the 1990s. Popular Japanese bands (31–40)
insoluble placeboMasako-san
Masako, who hails from the TV show “Yūji Miyake’s Ikasu Band Heaven,” which has produced many popular bands.
Instead of the guitar—normally indispensable to a band—she uses a taishōgoto, crafting a uniquely original musical world and sound.
Wonder WineShonen Naifu
Formed in 1981 by members who were then company employees, this three-piece girls’ band was scouted while playing in an open field in Osaka.
In a scene where all-female bands are often equated with idols even today, their no-nonsense style—one of the first to break into the global market—has earned high acclaim overseas.
Their sound, clearly influenced by punk rock acts like the Ramones and Buzzcocks, made a strong impression both at home and abroad, to the point that major international bands have covered Shonen Knife’s songs.
Even within Japan’s music scene, which now has many bands active overseas, they remain a beloved, singular presence.
(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.
Mirage On The Iceaphasia
Aphasia is a female band that stands out in Japan’s hard rock scene.
Formed in Tokyo in 1994, they have pursued a unique sound centered on melodious guitars and powerful yet expressive vocals.
Their knack for skillfully weaving pop elements into hard-hitting songs is particularly noteworthy.
Their independently produced debut release, Mirage on the Ice, which came out in 1999, created a major buzz in the scene at the time.
Praised in music magazines, their appearance on the 1998 compilation Women’s Power First also attested to their abilities.
Their sound, which distills influences from many HR/HM bands into something uniquely their own, will resonate not only with those seeking strong, driving rock, but also with listeners who cherish beautiful melodies.
Melon sorbetGitogito Hustler
Born in Kyoto in 1995, Gitogito Hustler is a Japanese all-female four-piece punk rock band that centers its sound on garage punk and post-punk.
They are known for their energetic, straightforward sound and lyrics that shine with a distinctly female perspective.
After signing with the American indie label Gearhead Records, they released albums such as Gitogito Hustler and Feathered Snake, and performed at the SXSW music festival in Austin, Texas, earning international recognition.
Notable parts of their history include the fact that Yago and Fusa are sisters and a lineup change in 2008.
Their unadorned, passionate performances and simple, powerful sound will captivate listeners seeking real punk.
If you want to experience authentic girls’ punk, be sure to check them out.