[J-Pop/Rock] A roundup of bands with cool singing bassists
When you think of someone playing an instrument and singing in a rock band, most people picture a guitarist-vocalist.
In reality, it’s most common for the guitarist to stand at the front, and it’s relatively rare for members of the rhythm section—like the bassist or drummer—to handle lead vocals.
That’s precisely why bands with a bassist as the lead vocalist tend to be distinctive and unique.
In this article, we highlight Japanese bands that feature a bass-vocalist, introducing them across different eras and genres.
You might even discover that the singer in a band you love has actually been singing while playing the bass!
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- Love at first sight with a bass girl! The female bassist of a popular band
- A collection of cool songs that sound great when sung by women, originally male songs
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- Cool band: A rock band that represents Japan
- A high-energy band number! A hype, crowd-pleasing track with male vocals.
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- [Karaoke] A compilation of Vocaloid songs that are easy to sing even for people with low voices
- [For Beginners] Recommended Songs for Female Vocal Bands: Great for Choosing Your Setlist! [2026]
- A compilation of cool Japanese rock band songs. Recommended tracks for cover bands.
[J-Pop] A Roundup of Bands with Cool Bass-Playing Vocalists (61–70)
At the end of the 20th centuryHikashū
Hikashu is a band that has established a unique musical identity centered around Koichi Makigami.
Since their 1979 debut, they have traversed a wide range of genres—from technopop to world music—while consistently creating songs that feel fresh.
Makigami’s commanding presence as both bassist and vocalist radiates a truly distinctive color.
Their eccentric visuals can be distracting, but it’s their musical depth and experimental approach that continue to captivate audiences in Japan and abroad—something noteworthy even for those who aren’t fans.
Hikashu extends its vision beyond the boundaries of music into the realm of art, offering listeners new experiences and discoveries.
Sagittarius1000say
API, the vocalist of 1000say, is a multi-instrumentalist who also handles bass in the group, which champions a unique concept called “Next-Generation Fantasy” that fuses male–female twin vocals with electro sounds.
Launching their band activities with the first mini-album STARGAZER ORCHESTRA in 2008, they have continued to produce music energetically, releasing in 2011 their first full-length album APOLLON—an ambitious concept album themed on Greek mythology.
API’s soft, airy vocals form a striking contrast with MAN’s edgy singing, adding depth to their tracks.
In July 2011, they also performed at JAPAN EXPO 2011 in Paris, France, delivering a confident set before an audience of 8,000.
They are highly recommended for those who want to experience a distinctive world where digital and analog coexist.
LET IT DIE (OAO)VELTPUNCH
VELTPUNCH is a four-piece alternative rock band formed in 1997 that features female bassist Aiko Nakajima.
With her powerful bass playing and expressive vocals, she gives the band a distinctive presence that sets them apart.
They released their first single and album in 2000, and in the same year gained international attention by performing at the American music festival SXSW.
In 2008, one of their songs was chosen as a TV anime opening theme and reached No.
36 on the Oricon chart.
Their intense guitar sound and melodic songwriting continue to captivate alternative rock fans.
Nakajima also showcases her multifaceted talent in her own band, mpjbd.
VELTPUNCH is a perfect fit for listeners seeking strong bass lines and distinctive vocals.
Yang 2avengers in sci-fi
Avengers in Sci-Fi, a three-piece rock band formed in Kanagawa Prefecture, began their activities in 2002 and launched their full-fledged music career in 2004 with an independently produced release.
In 2009, they signed with Victor Entertainment and made their major-label debut, showcasing their high level of musicality by producing tracks for artists such as Kaela Kimura.
Fusing a wide range of genres—rock, techno, and electro—their futuristic sound, driven by synthesizers and effects, has been dubbed a “rock spaceship,” winning the hearts of fans.
Selected for iTunes Japan’s “Sound of 2010,” their live shows create a truly cosmic musical experience, where bassist-vocalist Yoshihiko Inami’s inventive bass lines and vocals intertwine with Taro Kohata’s guitar.
deep breathEVERLONG
EVERLONG is a three-piece band based in Nagoya whose sound is rooted in melodic punk while remaining poppy and catchy.
Centered around Mitsuchan on bass and vocals, the band features distinctive members Okuyu and Kim.
They debuted in October 2012 with the mini-album “Lovers” on TRUST RECORDS.
Their addictive melodies and lyrics with a unique worldview have drawn attention, leading to appearances at major festivals such as 04 Limited Sazabys’ YON FES and SiM’s DEADPOP FESTiVAL.
Mitsuchan’s bass playing ranges from melodious lines to aggressive performances, and the way they play while singing sets them apart from other singing bassists.
Their energetic live shows and hometown-rooted approach have earned strong support from melodic punk fans.
1983S.M.N.
S.M.N.
is a young melodic punk band formed in Fukuoka in 2001.
Although they’re a three-piece made up of high school classmates, their talent is proven—they’ve even supported tours in Japan for famous overseas punk bands.
In January 2006 they released the cover mini-album “Knocking My Soul,” followed by their first full-length “How About It?” in February, raising their profile in the major scene.
Their momentum didn’t stop there: in January 2007 they released the album “What Is Bad To Be Fun!!”.
Kosuke Nishimura, a multi-instrumentalist who handles both bass and vocals, serves as the cornerstone of the band’s sound.
With a driving pace and a positive vibe, S.M.N.
is recommended not only for fans of melodic punk but for all music lovers who want to charge full speed through their youth.
SpectatorSideChest
SideChest, a rock band from Nagoya, was formed in 2016 while bassist-vocalist Takumi Matsuoka was still in university.
Known for their emotional melodies and solid sound, the group evolved into its current four-member lineup as members joined over time.
Matsuoka’s bass anchors the rhythm section while projecting a melodic yet powerful presence.
Their album BUFF features a range of sharp, pop-leaning tracks and has garnered high praise from music media.
In May 2022, they continued their energetic activities by performing at Shibuya Spotify O-Crest, among other shows.
Their stripped-down yet densely crafted songs and commanding live performances resonate with a wide spectrum of music fans, from devotees of classic rock to those drawn to more emotional sounds.