Classic Japanese rock songs recommended for women

liarRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Liar” Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Usotsuki

This is a striking track with a nostalgic melody and heartrending lyrics.

The words, which portray lost love and inner conflict, resonate deeply with listeners.

The transparent, signature vocals of Ryokuoushoku Shakai and the distinctive piano arrangement are captivating.

Included on the May 2023 album “pink blue,” it received its first TV performance on NHK General’s “Venue101.” It’s recommended for women struggling with love and for those who don’t usually listen to rock.

It may even evoke a sense of nostalgia by linking with your own heartbreak experiences.

Give it a listen, and you’re sure to discover a new side to Japanese rock!

Pink BlueRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Pink Blue” Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Pink Blue

Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s “Pink Blue” is a song that deftly captures the subtle sway of emotions.

Its scattered lyrics interweave hope and melancholy with exquisite balance, stirring the listener’s feelings.

Haruko Nagaya’s distinctive vocal phrasing further highlights the song’s poetic worldview.

The track is included on the album “pink blue,” released in May 2023.

The album also features “White Rabbit,” a tie-in song for the animated film “The Secret Garden of Flowers.” With lyrics that portray complex emotions—like tinting blue feelings with shades of pink—the song is sure to resonate with women grappling with love.

It might even be a great choice to sing at karaoke for someone you like.

ioliteAwesome City Club

Iolite TBS Tuesday Drama “The King’s Dedicated Ring Finger” Insert Song / Awesome City Club (MUSIC VIDEO)

With a refined musicality rooted in city pop and indie pop, PORIN continues to captivate the music scene.

She began her career in 2013 as the vocalist and keyboardist of Awesome City Club, making her major-label debut in 2015.

In 2021, the band won the Excellence Award at the Japan Record Awards, propelling their recognition to new heights.

Her unique world, woven from delicate lyrics and beautiful melodies, also shines through in her solo work.

Beyond music, she demonstrates her talent across diverse fields such as fashion and art, and her expressive power consistently resonates with music fans who have a creative sensibility.

Stars, Freckles, and DiamondsRīgaru Rirī

Legal Lily – 'Stars, Freckles, and Diamond' (NHK 'Minna no Uta' December 2024–January 2025)

Honoka Takahashi, the vocalist of Regal Lily, expresses a unique worldview with delicate expressiveness and an emotional guitar sound.

Blending alternative rock and indie rock, she formed the band and began performing while still in high school.

She has been active internationally, including appearances at SXSW in the U.S.

and a tour in China, and has released the albums “bedtime story” and “C to shi ikeru mono.” She has also created numerous tie-in songs for films and anime, captivating listeners with her clear, transparent voice and distinctive sensibility.

As an artist who provides music for NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” she enjoys broad support across a wide audience.

HEVENFukuyama Masaharu

HEAVEN

Masaharu Fukuyama, known for showcasing his wonderful voice mainly through adult ballads, also looks cool when performing slightly harder rock numbers, which further enhances his appeal.

His songs—adult and sexy—will continue to captivate both women and men.