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Love at first sight with a bass girl! The female bassist of a popular band

There are actually a lot of women who play bass in rock bands—like TOMOMI (SCANDAL), 345 (Ling tosite sigure), Hiromi Hirohiro (tricot), F Chopper KOGA (Gacharic Spin), junko (Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai), and many more! So in this article, we’re going to introduce a whole lineup of female bassists active on the Japanese music scene.

If you’re thinking about starting bass, this might be your chance to find someone to look up to.

Let’s dive right in!

Love at first sight with a bass girl! Popular bands’ female bassists (ages 31–40)

I want to burn out.Emanyueru Kominato (Kinoko Hoteru)

Kino no Ko Hotel “I Want to Burn Out” PV Full – kinocohotel –
I want to burn out.Emanyueru Kominato (Kinoko Hoteru)

Kinoco Hotel, a four-woman band, first garnered attention with songs and costumes inspired by Group Sounds and garage punk, and they are now developing a more complex musical style.

The bassist, Giulietta Kirishima, was originally a jazz musician and played the upright bass.

papapauemaya (ex. zekkei kujira)

Uemaya, who played bass in Zekkei Kujira, a band known for its cynical lyrics and punchy, cool beats.

In 2017, Uemaya left Zekkei Kujira, and that same year she joined Friday Friday, a Kyoto-based easy-pop team.

She’s also active as a designer.

Maybe it’s a sign of the times, but there are many people who deftly express themselves across multiple genres while making music—and it often feels completely natural, doesn’t it?

BlazeAya (WHITE ASH)

WHITE ASH – Blaze [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
BlazeAya (WHITE ASH)

WHITE ASH was a four-piece band, and Aya delivered a bass sound full of stability and groove.

Although WHITE ASH disbanded in March 2017, vocalist-guitarist Nobita and bassist Aya went on to form a new band, THE LITTLE BLACK.

Many fans were excited to hear that sound again, but the unit also disbanded in January 2024.

Even after the band breakups, Aya has declared she will continue playing bass and is currently serving as a support bassist for FINLANDS.

endlessFujisaki Yuu (Negoto)

Negoto – endless [Official Music Video]
endlessFujisaki Yuu (Negoto)

I’m the bassist and backing vocalist for Negoto, and I also serve as the band’s leader.

I studied piano for nine years during my childhood.

Although I have a quiet personality and a modest appearance, I produce a powerful bass sound.

dilemmaGotō Yōko (Ecosystem)

ecosystem “Dilemma” Official Music Video
dilemmaGotō Yōko (Ecosystem)

She was the former bassist of ecosystem.

During the band’s active period, she fell ill and it became difficult for her to return, leading to the band’s breakup.

Her beautiful looks and cool playing were very popular.

Many people are hoping for her comeback.

Love at first sight with a bass girl! Female bassists (41–50) from popular bands

GIRLSayaka(FLiP)

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

FLiP is a four-woman rock band from Osaka.

They made their indie debut in 2008 and went major in 2010.

With their energetic sound and performances—featured even as opening themes for popular anime—they’ve captivated many fans.

Sayaka is the band’s bassist, and her solid basslines are a key element supporting their sound.

Although the band went on hiatus in 2016 to much regret, each member has continued with individual projects, and Sayaka is still active in music.

She’s a highly recommended bassist for anyone who admires powerful female rockers.

Cassette Tape and Utility KnifeNaomitsu Yasufuku (Milky Way)

M1LKYWAY “Cassette Tape and Box Cutter” Music Video
Cassette Tape and Utility Knife Naomitsu Yasufuku (Milky Way)

While it’s a classic Japanese rock tune with a sparkling, standout bass, it’s also shaped into a distinctive song that carries a universal message.

Despite the very cute name “Milkyway,” the intensity creates a great contrast.