RAG MusicBass Basics
A web magazine for enjoying the bass even more

[2026] Easy J-Pop and Japanese Rock Songs Recommended for Beginner Bassists

The idea that bass is a plain, background position is a thing of the past.

In fact, there have always been countless stars—both overseas and in Japan—who show us the appeal of low-end with their incredibly cool bass playing.

That said, recent J-POP and Japanese rock often feature complex rhythm patterns, and some of you may have tried picking up the bass only to find it too difficult and ended up giving up.

So this time, we’re introducing classic J-POP and Japanese rock tracks that feature simple yet cool bass lines—perfect for beginner bassists who’ve gotten the basics down and are ready for a challenge.

Master these songs and take the next step beyond beginner!

[2026] Easy J-Pop and Japanese Rock Recommendations for Beginner Bassists (1–10)

Kizuna-gotoNEW!UNFAIR RULE

UNFAIR RULE “Kizuna-goto” Music Video
Kizuna-gotoNEW!UNFAIR RULE

A three-piece band, UNFAIR RULE, whose live shows ignite the scene with guitar rock brimming with intensity and lyrics spun from real-life experiences.

Released for streaming in April 2026, this track was selected as the theme song for the drama “Error,” a human suspense series.

The emotional melody—interweaving past failures, regrets, bittersweetness, and warmth—really strikes a chord.

The UK rock–inspired guitar rock features an ensemble defined by contrasts between stillness and explosiveness.

From a bass perspective, pay attention to how it supports the bottom end while frequently incorporating melodic phrases that use high positions and slides.

You’ll learn tasty lines that don’t just keep time but align closely with the song’s emotional core.

DarlingTRACK15

TRACK15 – Darling [Official Music Video]
DarlingTRACK15

TRACK15 is a four-piece rock band from Takatsuki, Osaka.

Released in December 2025, this song is a fast-paced love track that vividly captures the confusion and fixation of romantic feelings.

The straightforward vocals by Ren, the band’s singer, combined with the dynamic ensemble create a blend of poignancy and forward-driving momentum.

It also drew attention for being selected as the ending theme for the TV Asahi program “What’s So Wrong with Being Calculating?” in the January 2026 season.

Each instrument follows the basics with an ensemble that supports the vocals, so for teen bands, it’s highly recommended as a cover to study band ensemble fundamentals.

Blue and SummerNEW!Mrs. GREEN APPLE

This single was written as the theme song for the film “Aonatsu: 30 Days With You” and released in August 2018.

It’s a classic coming-of-age anthem that captures Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s signature pop-rock drive and an exhilarating freshness that evokes the summer sky.

The band sound that suddenly opens up the vista in the chorus, together with Motoki Omori’s sweet yet sharp vocals, vividly summons each listener’s own memories of “their summer.” From a bass-playing perspective, it’s perfect for feeling the dynamism of a fast-paced rhythm section while learning the buoyant groove of pop.

It’s a song I’d love bassists to tackle if they want to step up from basic root playing and savor the joy of supporting the band’s overall groove.

[2026] Easy J-POP/Japanese Rock Recommendations for Beginner Bassists (11–20)

voiceNEW!Hitsuji Bungaku

Hitsujibungaku – Koe (Official Music Video) [Theme song for the Monday 9 PM drama '119 Emergency Call']
voiceNEW!Hitsuji Bungaku

Hitsujibungaku captivates listeners with an alternative sound and delicate word choice.

The digital-only single “Koe” (Voice) is a track written as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “119 Emergency Call,” airing in January 2025.

In step with the exchanges of life and death at the drama’s dispatch center setting, the song voices an earnest feeling—a wish for someone to hear it.

The bass resonates quietly at a relaxed tempo, supporting the melody.

Since it doesn’t demand complex techniques, it’s perfect for bassists who’ve grown comfortable with basic root playing and want a new challenge.

Be mindful of the vocalist’s breathing and the song’s sense of space, and enjoy performing together as a band while staying in sync.

Girls’ bands don’t dieNEW!chakura

Chakura – Girls’ Bands Don’t Die (2025.12.10 Nationwide Invasion Operation - Act Three – Zepp Shinjuku)
Girls' bands don't dieNEW!chakura

Chakura is a rising band that delivers down-to-earth emotions through straight-ahead guitar rock.

Released in February 2026 as a declaration of their determination marking a major step toward the mainstream, this work is infused with the firm resolve of Wakita Ruru—who plays bass and also writes lyrics and music—and its fiery band ensemble is truly stirring.

With simple, mainly root-note bass phrases at its core, it’s approachable even for those who’ve just started playing bass.

Since Wakita also serves as one half of the twin vocals on this track, we’d love for you to try singing while playing bass, too.

This passionate rock tune, which heightens anticipation for the album “GIRLS BAND NEVER DIE” slated for the same year, is perfect for when you want to feel that live-show sense of unity.

I don’t need it anymoreNEW!Burandē Senki

Brandy War Chronicles – Don’t Need It Anymore (Official Music Video)
I don’t need it anymoreNEW!Burandē Senki

Brandy Senki, a rock band that started out in Osaka’s live house scene and is rapidly gaining popularity.

This track portrays a strong will to sever ties with past emotions and values, blending pop melodies with nostalgic shadings.

Released right after their April 2026 live show, it’s positioned as an important song presented in the wake of the acclaimed album “BRANDY SENKI.” Minori’s bass playing is rooted in straightforward root notes, yet she adds accents to the groove by skillfully using rests.

By taking on a style that’s a step beyond a simple 8-beat, you can really feel how the song’s groove is created.

TalentNEW!Sabasusutā

Sabasister – Talent Music Video, Morinaga Seika “In Jelly at School” Commercial Song
TalentNEW!Sabasusutā

Since forming in 2022, Sabasister—a girls’ band rapidly gaining attention for their impulsive sound and down-to-earth lyrics—has been on the rise.

Their song “Sainō,” released early in September 2025 and included on their second album “Takaga Punk Rock!,” was chosen as the CM song for the “Bukatsu ni in Jelly 2025 Sashiire Live” commercial, serving as an anthem of encouragement.

Rather than glorifying genius, its warm message affirms day-to-day accumulation, delivered over a driving punk rock groove.

While the bass line is largely simple root playing, it sprinkles in tasty, melodious phrases throughout, making it a perfect challenge for beginners looking to step up from straightforward playing.

There’s also a performance video by support bassist Kohei Sato available—be sure to check it out.