Classic Japanese rock songs recommended for women

Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children

Mr.Children "Tomorrow never knows" Tour 2015 Incomplete Live

A band every Japanese person knows.

After their breakthrough in the mid-1990s, they continued to rack up an exceptional number of hit singles and albums throughout the 2000s and 2010s, becoming a national band beloved by a wide range of generations.

As for the origin of their name, at first they prioritized the sound and didn’t attach a deep meaning to it.

But after their major-label debut, their management told them, “You need to get better at presenting yourselves,” so they added the meaning, “We want people from adults to children to listen to our music.”

Path of HopeSambomasutā

Path of Hope / Sambomaster

Sambomaster is known for their straight punk sound and melodies packed with powerful, intense, irresistible messages.

“Kibou no Michi” (The Road of Hope) is a masterpiece that showcases the lyric-writing talent of Takashi Yamaguchi, the band’s vocalist and guitarist.

I’d love for people to listen to it when they’re going through tough times.

Days in rosy huesTHE YELLOW MONKEY

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Rose-Colored Days

Speaking of a mature visual band led by Kazuya Yoshii, that would be The Yellow Monkey.

Stylish, cool, and sexy—every aspect of them is pure appeal.

They feel like a band that could step straight into the world of anime.

I’m sure they have many female fans as well.

From Me to Youflumpool

flumpool “Kimi ni Todoke” Music Video

flumpool features a handsome vocalist and stylish, trendy music that has earned them many female fans.

This song was also chosen as a movie’s theme, and its refreshing feel made it very pleasant to listen to.

They have many other tie-in tracks as well, and it’s exciting to see what they’ll do next.

centimeterthe peggies

the peggies “Centimeter” Music Video

This is a song by the peggies, released in August 2020, that expresses a bittersweet crush and a slight sense of distance as if in an equation.

The intertwining of longing and anxiety for a destined person is brilliantly conveyed through an upbeat pop-rock sound and clear, airy vocals.

The track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime “Rent-A-Girlfriend” and reached No.

34 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

This love song, which celebrates the wonder of falling for someone, is a comforting tune not only for those in love but also for anyone hoping for a wonderful encounter ahead.

Revolveryonige

yonige “Revolver” Official Music Video

A song that gently portrays the sorrow of love and the changes of the heart strikes a perfect balance between wistfulness and resignation.

It delicately depicts two people who were once close gradually growing apart, using everyday scenes like pro wrestling and ramen as a lens.

Chosen as a theme for au’s Santaro commercial series and later included on the 2018 album HOUSE, the track is further brought to life in its music video, which features actor Ryuya Wakaba and conveys a cinematic atmosphere that beautifully captures the song’s world.

Embracing the hearts of those who try to look forward while carrying the pain of heartbreak, it resonates as a quintessential yonige coming-of-age song.

Girl SSCANDAL

SCANDAL “Girl S” / Shoujo S – Music Video

This is a girls’ rock anthem that powerfully expresses the complex emotions felt by women in their adolescence.

SCANDAL portrays the instability of youth and the conflicts within romance with an energetic sound.

The slap bass technique used in the intro and interlude adds a vibrant drive to the track and strengthens the impact of its message.

Released in June 2009, the song was selected as the 10th opening theme for the anime BLEACH, and its music video—directed by comedian Hiroshi Shinagawa in his directorial debut—also drew attention.

It’s a great recommendation for beginners on guitar, and its robust rock sound and accessible melody are sure to boost your motivation to practice.