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[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 (51–60)

Everything other than death is just a scratch.Koresawa

Koresawa “Everything but dying is just a scratch” [MUSIC VIDEO]
Everything other than death is just a scratch.Koresawa

Koresawa, a singer-songwriter hugely popular among younger generations, has a diverse catalog, and many of her songs are finished with a band sound that leans strongly toward rock, so there are surely plenty of people who want to try covering them.

For those people, a recommended track is “Shinu Koto Igai Kasuri Kizu.” Released in 2017, its MV featuring the nationwide lineup of yuru-chara known as the “Kore-chans” also drew attention.

With a tempo exceeding BPM 200 and a distinctly J-rock sound, this song can serve as a good study piece for bassists—both to get used to playing fast-tempo songs with mostly root-note lines.

Whether you play with fingers or with a pick, especially during repeated notes at high speed, it’s easy to get sloppy, so focus on keeping each note even and consistent.

Gather round! Party people!Yabai T-shatsu Yasan

Yabai T-Shirts Yasan – “Gather Around! Party People” Music Video [Major Version]
Gather round! Party people!Yabai T-shatsu Yasan

Yabai T-Shirts Yasan is a three-piece rock band that has enjoyed immense popularity among younger audiences, performing at SUMMER SONIC 2015 TOKYO just a year after starting activities with the current lineup.

Their track “Atsumare! Party People,” included on their first album We love Tank-top, also drew attention for its music video filmed in Hollywood.

Since the bass lines are fundamentally rooted in simple root-note playing, the phrases themselves aren’t difficult; however, if you’re also handling vocals as in the original, be careful not to let the singing throw off your rhythm.

It’s an upbeat tune that creates a strong sense of unity with the audience, so it’s one you’ll definitely want to play live.

Shangri-LaChatto Monchī

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video
Shangri-LaChatto Monchī

Chatmonchy was a rock band that had a major influence on the girls’ band scene after 2000 but sadly disbanded in 2018.

Their third single, Shangri-La, is one of their signature songs and was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Hataraki Man.

The phrases themselves aren’t difficult, but if you’re not used to the octave technique in the chorus, it’s hard to keep the rhythm, so practice is necessary.

Also, in the chorus’s irregular time section, be sure the whole band stays locked in so you don’t drift apart.

Melodic Stormsutoreitenaa

Straightener is a four-piece rock band that initially performed as a duo and adopted its current lineup in 2008, their 10th anniversary.

Their major 5th single, “Melodic Storm,” is a hit tune known as a live staple.

Some parts feature a very active bass line that may sound difficult for beginner bassists, but since the tempo isn’t that fast, once you memorize the phrases, it’s easy to play.

Overall, there are many root-note sections, so it’s a great number to tackle as a step up.

[2026] Easy J‑POP and Japanese Rock Picks Recommended for Beginner Bassists (61–70)

Dear, boyHump Back

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video
Dear, boyHump Back

A powerful rock tune that sends a passionate cheer to the days of youth.

With straightforward lyrics and a catchy melody, it sings about the importance of pursuing your dreams and the inner strength to never give up, even when you face setbacks.

Released in June 2018 as Hump Back’s major-label debut single, it was used as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02” and as the theme song for the high school baseball tournament in Kumamoto.

It’s a perfect song to listen to when you want to push toward your goals or support your friends.

It’s also great for practicing bass—there are practice videos on YouTube, so be sure to check them out!

Shufu no MichiUchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai

Anime “The Way of the Househusband” theme song — Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai, “Shufu no Michi”
Shufu no MichiUchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai

A three-piece rock band that calls their style “everyday life loud rock,” Uchu Nekoko Gokumon Doukoukai has gained popularity with relaxed, everyday-themed lyrics paired with a loud, heavy low-end sound.

This track opens their 7th single, “Konna Band Name Dakedo Iin Desu ka,” and was used as the theme song for the TV anime The Way of the Househusband.

The bass line sticks to root notes throughout, but because the tempo is quite fast, training your plucking hand is more important than your fretting hand.

There are also many sudden breaks and tightly arranged hits, so beginner bassists should pay close attention to the beat to avoid rushing or dragging during performance.

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu

This heartwarming song, set to a dreamy melody filled with kindness and hope, tells of youth, growth, and the wish for self-realization.

In the poetic lyrics penned by Masamune Kusano, frontman of Spitz, the image of adolescence emerges—eager to move forward with pure resolve, even while burdened by immaturity and anxiety.

Released in April 1994, it was later chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Hakusen Nagashi,” which began airing in January 1996, and became a million-selling hit that earned the band their first No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Featuring melodic guitar and crystalline vocals, the track also appears on the album “Sora no Tobikata” and continues to be loved across generations.

It’s a great choice for anyone starting out on bass—give it a try!