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)
Invincible VenusMoriwaka Kaori
In the late 1980s, GO-BANG’S brought a fresh breeze to the punk rock scene.
Kaori Moriwaka, who led the band as the guitarist and vocalist, has captivated audiences with her delicate guitar work and powerful vocals.
They made their major-label debut with Pony Canyon in 1988 and, as pioneers among all-female bands, released a string of hit songs.
Their trademarks are candid, true-to-life lyrics laced with humor and catchy melodies.
Moriwaka’s guitar, which continually conveyed the joy and allure of rock ’n’ roll, radiates a distinctive color—powerful yet imbued with gentleness.
She’s an artist highly recommended for those who love rock infused with passionate spirit.
summer festivalInatsuki Aya
Aya Inazuki served as the guitarist for Whiteberry, a band formed in 1994 in Kitami, Hokkaido.
She began playing guitar in first grade, and in third grade the band was formed after a flyer posted at her mother’s shop sparked the idea.
They initially performed under the name Strawberry Kids.
Making their major-label debut in 1999, her powerful sound—played on a Fernandes guitar—brought vivid color to the band’s poppy, energetic songs.
Whiteberry performed at the 2000 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen and contributed theme songs to anime and TV dramas, gaining exposure across a wide range of media.
The band captivated many fans until disbanding in 2004 when members moved on to further education.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy bright, energetic female-vocal rock.
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.