[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 Collection of Popular Songs with Irresistible Guitar Cutting [2026] (21–30)
SUMMER B LUEBureddo & Batā
A refreshing city pop track distinguished by the groove of rhythmic guitar cutting.
Its easygoing rhythm evokes summer scenes in Shonan, paired with an urbane melody that conjures white sandy beaches and lyrics depicting a bittersweet seaside romance.
The guitar work that colors the chord progression is rich with intricate touches—slides, hammer-ons, and more—sure to delight players.
Featured on the 1980 album “LATE LATE SUMMER,” the song shines even brighter thanks to Haruomi Hosono’s arrangement.
The record also includes top-tier musicians emblematic of the era, such as Masataka Matsutoya and Ryuichi Sakamoto.
Its versatility—suiting everything from full-band performances to acoustic renditions—is another draw, making it a perfect fit for outdoor activities like summer drives and BBQ parties.
Good luckNoguchi Goro
It’s a masterpiece that showcases a different side of Goro Noguchi, colored by the pleasant groove created by 16-beat cutting.
The guitar work, which skillfully alternates between chorus and muting, fully draws out the sense of tempo and rhythmic flair.
As a pop tune with an artistic impression, it earned high praise not only from fans but also across the music scene.
Released as a single in September 1978, the song was created through the collaboration of lyricist Keisuke Yamakawa and composer Kyohei Tsutsumi.
After its release, it peaked at No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and was further honored with the Gold Prize at the 20th Japan Record Awards.
With the crisp, satisfying cutting play by Ken Yajima and its refined atmosphere, it stands out in the archive as an especially captivating guitar piece.
Highly recommended for music fans who want to fully savor the guitar’s tone and groove.
Punishment9mm Parabellum Bullet
A four-piece rock band, 9mm Parabellum Bullet, whose loud, metal- and hardcore punk-based sound has earned them popularity mainly on the live circuit.
This track closes out their first album, “Termination,” and its high-speed beat and tight sound really crank up the energy.
From the clean-tone lightning-fast strumming in the intro and interlude to the relentless, bridge-muted backing, it truly showcases the coolness of rock guitar.
It’s a hard-hitting rock number that delivers crushing sonic pressure while conveying the depth of the guitar work.
Senseless WonderHitorie
Formed by members who were active in the online music scene, Hitorie is a three-piece rock band that made its major-label debut in 2014, and this is their first major single.
The song was written by wowaka, a Vocaloid producer who released many hits before his untimely passing in 2019.
Its unpredictable melodic lines and tight ensemble really stick with you.
The brisk, cutting guitar work creates a sense of speed while conveying depth and delicacy in the guitar sound.
It’s a catchy yet intricately arranged rock tune that’s highly satisfying to listen to—one that any guitar enthusiast should check out.
SmokyChar
A song by singer-songwriter Char, who is counted among the “Big Three of Rock” in the J-POP scene and is often named as one of Japan’s leading guitarists for his playing.
Featured on his first album, “Char,” the track’s catchy unison intro really sticks in your ears.
The light, nimble guitar comping—hard to believe it’s played while singing—creates a sense of speed and delivers highlights that go beyond the vocals alone.
It’s one of Char’s signature songs, showcasing just how cool the guitar can be.
Enigmatic FeelingRin to shite Shigure
A thrilling track featuring a strikingly impactful high-tone voice has captivated fans—this is the fourth single by the three-piece rock band Ling tosite Sigure.
Used as the opening theme for the TV anime PSYCHO-PASS 2, the song showcases a superb arrangement with male-female twin vocals that create a sense of depth.
The cutting from the distorted guitar sound injects a tension and momentum reminiscent of danger.
It’s a rock tune that lets you enjoy its complex structure and guitar work that shifts mood at a dizzying pace.
My instincts were spot on, and it’s frustrating.zutto mayonaka de ii no ni.
Known by the abbreviation “Zutomayo,” Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni is a music unit that keeps their looks completely private, from media appearances to live footage.
This track is included on their second mini-album, “Ima wa Ima de Chikai wa Emi de,” and it’s a high-energy number that lifts the tension right from the intro, featuring a tight beat and a thrilling slap bass.
The rapid-fire cutting phrases heard in the A-melody add a sense of speed to the ensemble while still making a strong impression.
It’s a modern, upbeat tune that showcases the coolness of the guitar sound.