[J-Pop] A compilation of popular songs with irresistible guitar cutting [2026]
Cutting is a guitar technique that mixes rests and brushing within the strum to produce a crisp, snappy sound.
That chaka-chaka tone feels great, doesn’t it?
If you’re into guitar, you’ve probably tried it at least once.
In this article, we’ve put together a list of popular Japanese songs that feature cutting!
From the latest buzzworthy tracks to classic hits, we’ve selected a wide range of Japanese music across various genres—funk tunes, city pop, pop, and even gritty garage rock.
Guitarists, this is a must-check!
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[J-Pop] A roundup of popular songs with irresistible guitar cutting [2026] (1–10)
Telecaster StripePorukadotto Sutingurei
Polkadot Stingray’s songs, colored by energetic guitar cutting, set the heart racing with Ejima Harushi’s razor-sharp riffs and thunderous chord strokes.
The crisp, sixteenth-note-based cutting drives the groove of each track and serves as a key element, with virtuosic playing that yields highly addictive guitar rock numbers.
Featured on their major-label debut album “Zenchi Zennou,” released November 8, 2017, this landmark track’s music video has amassed tens of millions of views on YouTube, propelling the band to nationwide recognition.
It’s a must-listen not only for guitar enthusiasts but also for any music fan seeking a vibrant, dynamic rock sound.
Destruction!!Chevon
With crisp cutting and a driving 16-beat rhythm, the guitar part’s appeal is brought to the fullest.
Sharp strumming and deft muting accentuate its serious, emotional soundscape.
Featured on the album “Chevon,” released in February 2024, this track is also known for being chosen as the ending theme for ABC TV’s drama “●●-chan.” It’s a recommended pick not only for guitarists drawn to meticulous arrangements and energetic sound, but also for music fans who want to savor razor-sharp cutting phrases.
A New JourneyYONA YONA WEEKENDERS
This work by YONA YONA WEEKENDERS captivates with its groovy feel, woven from comfortable guitar cutting and a funky beat.
The meticulously designed guitar rhythms create exquisite harmony with the drums and bass, beautifully expressing a languid mood and an urbane sound.
Grounded in city pop’s sophistication, the track gently conveys the courage to take a new step forward and the importance of facing ahead even when things aren’t perfect.
Released in February 2025, the song was selected as the ending theme for the travel variety show “Chikyuu no Arukikata SP in Vietnam,” broadcast on the TV Tokyo network.
As a new development following the album “LIVE,” it’s a track that signals a deepening of the band’s musicality.
Perfect for a nighttime drive or as background music on a calm weekend afternoon, it will gently push those looking to take their next step forward.
[J-Pop] A Compilation of Popular Songs with Irresistible Guitar Chopping [2026] (11–20)
Once Upon a NightBillyrrom
Billyrrom captivates with a stylish, buoyant rhythm and disco-tinged sound.
The song, which sings of the resolve to take a step beyond a peaceful everyday life, features a groovy, funk- and soul-based cutting guitar that leaves a strong impression.
The cutting acts as the heartbeat of the track, intertwining brilliantly with the drum-and-bass rhythm section to maximize the song’s dynamism.
Released in July 2024 as a lead single from the album “WiND,” this work serves as the conclusion to a trilogy and showcases the band’s musical maturation.
Live, the energetic cutting play enthralls the audience, transforming the entire venue into a dance floor.
It’s a perfect track for a nighttime drive or when you want a fresh start.
CharacterRyokushokushakai
An ambitious work in which Ryokuoushoku Shakai ventures into new territory, featuring striking cutting-style guitar infused with elements of Motown, disco, and funk.
Released in January 2022 as the lead track from the album “Actor,” the song also drew attention as the CM song for Morinaga’s “in Jelly.” Guitarist Issei Kobayashi’s rhythmic cutting technique adds color to an ensemble brimming with groove, grounded in a 16-beat feel.
With a positive message, the lyrics gently sing about the importance of valuing your true self, making it an uplifting anthem that supports those striving every day.
It’s a recommended track for a wide range of music fans—from beginners just starting guitar to those eager to tackle cutting techniques.
CustardKroi
This track shines with an exquisite groove woven by crisp guitar cutting.
The sharp muting and accent work delivered by the two guitarists evokes a seamless blend of funk and R&B.
Included on their first EP, “Polyester,” the song has been a live staple since its September 2019 release, showcasing its full appeal on stage, including their SUMMER SONIC 2019 performance.
They later released their major-label first album, “LENS,” in June 2021.
The DVD bundled with the November 2021 EP “nerd” also features live footage from LIQUIDROOM, letting you savor the groove even more.
Highly recommended not only for funk lovers but for anyone drawn to rhythmic, cool guitar sounds.
I got a girlfriend.SHISHAMO
This song by SHISHAMO, featuring an eye-catching guitar riff built around light, snappy cutting, portrays the pure feeling of wanting to brag to others about a secretly new lover.
Paired with an emotional vocal delivery, the pop chord progression and strumming create a groovy performance that deftly captures both the thrill and impatience of love.
Released in November 2013 as the first track on the album “SHISHAMO,” the song was selected as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s “JAPAN COUNTDOWN” and Nagasaki International Television’s “AIR.” This down-to-earth love song, carried by a band sound imbued with hidden feelings, is sure to resonate with listeners who feel the urge to tell someone about the person they’re in love with.