Feature on skilled female guitarists from popular bands
Japanese female guitarists, captivating audiences with delicate yet bold techniques, are making a strong mark on the music scene.
From tricot’s shape-shifting odd meters to Polkadot Stingray’s cool cutting rhythms and BAND-MAID’s thunderous hard rock, a host of bands are dazzling with a wide range of musical styles.
As master guitarists, each shines with a unique personality, etching a new chapter in the rock scene’s history.
Alongside audio samples, we present the allure of these powerhouse female guitarists.
- Roundup of popular female guitarists: introducing guitar players from Japan and around the world.
- Japanese shred guitarist
- Cute songs by girls’ bands [popular and classic tracks]
- [2026] A compilation of Japanese songs/J-pop with cool guitar solos
- The depth of guitar sound. A collection of songs with cool guitar.
- Classic Japanese rock songs recommended for women
- A guitarist who masters the SG model—a guitar with a distinctive look and sound.
- [Feels Great to Listen To!] Popular Songs by Female Artists with Captivating High Notes
- [For Beginners] Recommended Songs for Female Vocal Bands: Great for Choosing Your Setlist! [2026]
- Guitarists who use PRS
- [2026] A roundup of Japanese female music groups: from idols to vocal groups
- From cute to cool: iconic and recommended songs from uniquely individual girl bands
- A special feature on girls' band tracks and female-vocal study songs that help you focus
Feature: Talented Female Guitarists from Popular Bands (41–50)
P.S. I LOVE YOUSuzuki Takako
Takako Suzuki, the guitarist of PINK SAPPHIRE who kept delivering brilliant guitar sounds.
Since their major debut in July 1990, her solid, hard rock–based guitar work became the cornerstone of the band’s musical identity.
Achieving the remarkable feat of four consecutive Top 10 hits, including a tie-in with a Fuji TV drama, the band drew attention as pioneers among female rock groups.
In 1992, they also won the Grand Prix at the Japan Junior Chamber’s “Song to Cheer the Earth.” Suzuki went on to pursue diverse musical activities, including tour support for MAX and Hiroko Anzai, and performing with Yoshio Nomura’s FUNK ROCKET.
With powerful yet delicate guitar playing, she broadened the possibilities for female guitarists and left a significant mark on the rock scene as a trailblazer.
Still BurningMOE
Centered on power metal while incorporating metalcore and progressive elements, BRIDEAR has crafted a unique sound—bolstered in 2022 by the addition of MOE as their new guitarist.
Her exceptional guitar technique has breathed new life into the band.
Supported by ESP Guitars, she captivates with a performance style that is both delicate and dynamic—a talent not to be missed.
Together with AYUMI in a twin-guitar lineup, they paint a vast soundscape, and BRIDEAR’s live shows have earned high praise overseas.
Highly recommended for music fans drawn to the fusion of fiery metal and grand, sweeping melodies.
Goodbye, LiarChiharu
Nolala is a Kyoto-born twin-vocal, three-piece girls’ band garnering attention for lyrics woven with delicate emotions and beautiful harmonies.
Since forming in 2017, they’ve won empathy with down-to-earth lyrics and have been energetically active, focusing on live circuits.
They debuted in 2018 with the mini-album “harmony,” and the following year, a tweet by Chiharu sparked over 20,000 likes.
The buzz on social media also boosted sales of their recordings, and the members’ lyrics—based on real-life experiences—together with their lapis-lazuli-colored harmony work have expanded a circle of resonance, especially among young women.
With candid emotional expression and refined performances, nolala delivers music that strikes the heart—making them a perfect band for music fans seeking songs steeped in delicate feelings.
SWEETMisaki
Misaki is the guitarist and vocalist for the band SpecialThanks.
Her charming voice—cute without being overly sweet—adds flair to their bursting melodic punk sound.
Her long hair and adorably feminine look are also popular.
papapanozo
Contrary to their quirky band name, they’re known for powerful, emotional songs, drawing on foreign guitar rock to create music with a solid backbone.
Their guitar chops are top-notch and have been praised by numerous musicians.
welcome to nightSasakawa Maika
It’s a girls’ band with the distinctive lineup of bass and vocals.
The quality of their songs is so high that Pierre Nakano from Ling Tosite Sigure has praised them.
Their lyrics and music are highly psychedelic and exude a sense of sensuality, which is very appealing.
DOUNARUNO!?Misaki
This high-energy track is built on solid, melodic-hardcore-influenced guitars and drums.
The lyrics, which feel like they’re asking us “What’s going to happen?”, are startling in the best way.
This is a band I highly recommend right now.