RAG Music
Lovely music

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.

Feature: Talented Female Guitarists from Popular Bands (41–50)

Chatmonchy

Shangri-LaHashimoto Eriko

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video
Shangri-LaHashimoto Eriko

The vocalist and guitarist of Chatmonchy.

Her husband is Shoichi Igari from tacica, and she is also a mother.

She used to favor a Telecaster-type guitar, but recently she has been using various types of guitars.

Her charming looks and singing voice, along with her emotional guitar playing, are part of her appeal.

Feature: Talented Female Guitarists from Popular Bands (51–60)

TETORA

At least for today.Ueno Hane Arane

TETORA – Official Live Music Video for Today at Least
At least for today.Ueno Hane Arane

This band, memorable for its left-handed singer-guitarist, is TETORA, a three-piece girls’ rock band from Kansai.

Above all, what stands out in their songs is the husky voice of Yune Noba, who sings and plays guitar.

Their passionate, piercing lyrics are another key part of their appeal, and together with their pleasantly overdriven, easy-on-the-ears guitar sound, they’re a band I’d recommend not only to rock fans but to anyone.

nolala

Goodbye, LiarChiharu

nolala "Goodbye Liar" Music Video
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.

FLiP

GIRLYuko

FLiP – “GIRL” [Music Video] Radio Edit ver. (included on ‘GIRL’)
GIRLYuko

FLiP is a four-piece girls’ band from Okinawa, formed in 2005.

Incorporating a Western-music aesthetic into their sound, they made their major-label debut in 2010.

They gradually gained popularity, contributing theme songs for anime and more.

In 2014, they moved to EMI Records and began exploring pop, danceable tracks featuring synthesizers.

With their 2013 album “LOVE TOXiCiTY,” they self-produced every track, further broadening their musical scope.

They have appeared at many major festivals, including SUMMER SONIC 08 in 2008.

Their energetic live performances are one of their key attractions.

They’re a band we recommend to fans of Western music as well.

BRIDEAR

Still BurningMOE

BRIDEAR – Still Burning [Official music video]
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.

Shonen Knife

Super Groupnaoko

Doya-face NAOKO is just too good #Chanmina #chanmina #SKYHI #BMSG #Naoko #NonoGirls #recommended
Super Groupnaoko

As expected from true veterans, their song is a powerful, punkish track that shows no signs of age.

With distinctive English lyrics and a suitably distorted sound, it feels familiar to our ears today and is an easy, enjoyable listen.

In conclusion

The female guitarists introduced here boast an impressive range of appeal, from delicate expressiveness to powerful performances. tricot’s shifting time signatures, BAND-MAID’s metal sound, and Tokyo Jihen’s sophisticated songs—each has established a unique musical identity. Find your favorite artist and enjoy their breathtaking performances at live shows and in music videos.