[2026] For Band Beginners! Recommended Songs from Popular Bands That Get the Crowd Going at Live Shows

To the blue skySABOTEN

SABOTEN – To the Blue Sky (2014) Re-recording

SABOTEN is a three-piece rock band that captivates fans with straightforward, Japanese-based lyrics and the beautiful melodic-work typical of melodic hardcore.

“Aozora e,” included on their first album HI ROCK HI, features the clean, simple sound unique to a three-piece, which feels really good.

While there aren’t any difficult phrases, the performance can end up sounding flat unless you focus on tight playing and dynamics, so be mindful of that when practicing as a band.

Also, harmonies—the hallmark of melodic hardcore—are important, so practicing vocals alongside your instruments will raise the overall quality.

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Hoshino Takashi

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SunflowerSHACHI

SHACHI – Sunflower [official MV]

SHACHI is a three-piece rock band with two contrasting lead vocalists, and their positive, message-driven lyrics captivate fans.

Their fourth single, “Himawari,” amps you up right from the intro that makes you want to thrust your fist in the air.

While each part relies only on basic techniques, the fast tempo—like the guitar’s palm muting and the drum beats—adds difficulty, so it’s best to start practicing at a tempo you can comfortably play.

It’s a refreshing rock tune with a driving ensemble that perfectly suits a school festival vibe.

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Hoshino Takashi

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When the wind blows, loveChatto Monchī

Chatmonchy “Kaze Fukeba Koi” Music Video

Chatmonchy is a rock band that continues to be highly regarded not only by fans of girls’ rock, but also by a wide range of music lovers.

Their 8th single “Kaze Fukeba Koi,” used in Shiseido’s SEA BREEZE commercial, resonates with its refreshing lyrics that straightforwardly portray the feelings of love.

While there are no difficult techniques in the performance, the original vibe won’t come through unless you focus on tightness, so the entire band needs to be mindful.

In particular, since the guitarist plays while singing, be careful not to let either the vocals or the guitar pull the rhythm off balance.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Demachiyanagi Parallel UniverseASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Demachiyanagi Parallel Universe” Music Video

This song was created as the theme for the theatrical anime adaptation of Tomihiko Morimi’s novel, The Tatami Time Machine Blues.

It’s the third time they’ve handled a theme song for an anime based on Morimi’s work, and you can feel their seasoned confidence in this signature power-pop tune.

There aren’t any difficult phrases, but precisely because it’s simple, a direct and powerful sound is required.

Since the arrangement centers on guitar backing that brings out the beautiful melody, focus on fretting the chords cleanly and supporting the overall groove.

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hiyori

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rainbowELLEGARDEN

ELLEGARDEN “Rainbow”

Even in the Reiwa era, there are surely many beginner band members who want to try covering ELLEGARDEN songs, which continue to attract passionate cross-generational support.

The song “Niji” introduced here is included on their landmark album “RIOT ON THE GRILL,” which became a turning point in their breakthrough.

Sung in Japanese, its lyrics and melody are emotional and tinged with a certain bittersweetness, making it a classic.

It’s not a fast, driving track, but is based on a mid-tempo 8-beat.

The pleasantly rough backing and simple rhythms don’t require advanced technique, so among their songs it’s one of the easier ones to take on.

That said, be careful not to let it become too plain—try to play each note with feeling!

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KOH-1

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The Hell SongSUM41

Sum 41 – The Hell Song (Official Music Video)

A landmark of punk rock, this song was inspired by the shocking event of a friend contracting HIV.

Released by Sum 41 in January 2002, it poignantly portrays the fragility of life.

With power-chord-driven guitars, root-note-focused bass, and an 8-beat drum pattern, its simple yet catchy arrangement makes it approachable even for beginner bands.

Featured on the album “Does This Look Infected?”, the track charted in both the UK and the US, and received RIAA Gold certification in May 2015.

It’s a recommended pick both for those who want to get hyped at live shows and for those who want to feel the subtleties of life.

I wonder if I can narrate.TETORA

TETORA – Will I Be a Narrator? – Music Video

The three-piece girls’ band TETORA, whose lyrics depicting everyday life have won support from listeners of the same generation, is rapidly rising in popularity.

“Nareru Kana,” included on their third album, “Konna Toki ni Kagitte Mangetsu ka,” draws you into its world from the intro with a melancholic, emotional guitar riff.

With its straightforward playing over a relaxed shuffle beat, it should be approachable even for beginner bands.

However, if you plan to perform it as a three-piece like the original, you’ll need to sing while playing guitar, so practice the vocals and guitar separately first, then gradually work toward performing them simultaneously.

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Hoshino Takashi

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