Classic Japanese rock songs recommended for women

FriendsREBECCA

Friends – Rebecca (Full)

A music group consisting of a single female vocalist with the other members handling instruments and being male was rare in the Japanese music scene at the time, but after Rebecca, many such groups began to appear.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite (2016 ver.)”

This song is a powerful cry of the soul, vividly portraying self-denial and rebirth.

The world of sound woven by its heavy guitar riffs and emotional vocals brims with a liberating sense of releasing one’s inner feelings.

The will to overcome conflict and suffering and be reborn into a new self resonates alongside the driving, fast-paced sound.

Released in August 2004, the track was included on the album “Sol-fa” and was also used as the opening theme for season 4 of the anime Fullmetal Alchemist.

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s message-driven rock sound gently encourages those searching for their own path and those striving to move forward amid uncertainty.

A Little Love SongMONGOL800

MONGOL800 / A Small Love Song

A gem of a love song woven from a tender voice and heartwarming melody.

The pure feelings of love that MONGOL800 spins capture the ache of holding unspoken emotions and gently sing of gratitude for days spent with someone special.

Included on the album “MESSAGE,” this song has been a massive hit since its release in September 2001, selling over 2.8 million copies.

It was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime series Teasing Master Takagi-san and The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten, and was even adapted into a film in 2019.

A resonant track that stands by anyone who wants to cherish each day or convey their feelings to someone they care about.

Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song)Vaundy

Monster’s Flower Song / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

This is a work by Vaundy that expresses, through music, the moments when we’re swept away by nostalgic memories.

It entrusts memories of someone precious from the past to the innocent figure of a “kaiju,” vividly portraying the yearning to reclaim lost dreams and passion.

With a sweet, bittersweet vocal and a melody that shines like stars in the night sky, it resonates deep in the heart.

Released in May 2020, the song became a massive hit, taking the No.

1 spot on the 2023 annual karaoke rankings.

It was also featured in Maruha Nichiro’s WILDish series commercials, gaining support from a wide audience.

It’s the perfect song for those wavering moments—when you’re on the verge of losing sight of your dreams and hopes, or when you want to remember someone dear to you.

NOW LOADINGmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu "NOW LOADING" Music Video

A sweet and bittersweet love song by Macaroni Empitsu that traces the journey of conveying feelings that are hard to put into words.

It beautifully captures the awkwardness of love and the dilemmas of emotion, carried by a gentle yet powerful melody.

Included on the album “Ima Dakishimeru Tarinai Dake o,” released in March 2025, the song was produced as the theme for the film “My Love Story With Yamada-kun at Lv999.” In collaboration with the movie starring Mizuki Yamashita, it perfectly matches a story that portrays modern romance sparked by gaming.

This track gently stands by those troubled by love or frustrated by unspoken feelings, giving them a soft, encouraging push forward.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

The girls’ band born in the Heisei era had one of their songs featured in a commercial, and its catchy tune won overwhelming support from young listeners, becoming a massive hit.

Since then, their music has continued to be recognized as an anthem for teens and people in their twenties.

I hope we can keep supporting their music going forward.

OVER DRIVEJUDY AND MARY

Judy And Mary – Over Drive (Live 2000)

When it comes to Japanese female-fronted bands, you just can’t leave out JUDY AND MARY with YUKI on vocals! Among their songs, this one is especially loved across generations.

It’s characterized by a cute singing voice and a bouncy, poppy melody line.

If you sing it in front of fans of rock bands or people who love Japanese music from the 1990s, it’s sure to be a huge hit! It also has a summery vibe, so I think it’s an especially great pick for the summer.

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Hane Keisuke

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