RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

Recommended Japanese bands for men in their 40s

Many people in their 40s likely devoted their youth to being in bands.

From nostalgic classics to newer groups you might not know, I’d like to introduce Japanese bands recommended for men in their 40s.

These bands are sure to capture your heart.

Recommended Japanese bands for men in their 40s (31–40)

Probably Maybe Meiji feat. Ah, Tagirentarōrekishi

Lekishi – “Probably Maybe Meiji feat. Ah, Tagiren Tarō” Music Video
Probably Maybe Meiji feat. Ah, Tagirentarōrekishi

Rekishi is a music project that delivers top-tier funk with Japanese history as its theme.

It’s the solo moniker of Takafumi Ikeda, also known as the former keyboardist of SUPER BUTTER DOG, and his groovy musicianship is second to none.

The project began in 2007 with the album “Rekishi,” and the tracks—featuring star guests like Ringo Sheena and Daichi Miura performing under playful “Rekishi names”—are brimming with a sense of fun.

Ikeda’s entertainer spirit is astounding, too: for the first pressing, he hand-drew the cover art for 10,000 CDs.

Even if history isn’t your strong suit, once you experience Rekishi’s music, those tricky figures and events will start to feel endearing.

It’s a project that will make you want to dive into the world of history.

Marunouchi SadisticToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Jihen captivates listeners with a unique sound that fuses jazz, funk, and rock.

They debuted in 2004 with the single “Gunjō Biyori,” bringing together members of exceptional skill under the leadership of Ringo Sheena.

With overwhelming musicianship and performance at numerous festivals and live shows, they made their first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 2021.

The lineup is noteworthy as well: bassist Seiji Kameda has won the Japan Record Awards’ Arrangement Prize twice.

Their meticulously crafted arrangements, distinctive lyrical world, and visually striking stage—with careful attention to costumes—make them a top recommendation for listeners seeking musical depth.

Incorporating elements of R&B, their innovative sound grips music fans and doesn’t let go.

The world calls it love.Sambomasutā

Sambomaster / The World Calls It Love MUSIC VIDEO
The world calls it love.Sambomasutā

Armed with passionate messages and a powerful sound, Sambomaster has secured a firm place in Japan’s rock scene.

Formed in 2000, this three-piece rock band is known for an energetic, emotional rock style.

They made their major debut in 2003, and their song used as the ending theme for the drama Densha Otoko became a big hit.

In 2011, they created a support song for the Great East Japan Earthquake recovery efforts, and they’ve continued to captivate audiences at numerous festivals and live shows.

In 2023, their achievements in the music world were recognized with the Miura Jun Award.

Takashi Yamaguchi’s distinctive vocals and powerful stage performances are must-see, and their lyrics—often centered on life and love—resonate with many.

They’re highly recommended for anyone looking to experience music brimming with energy and intensity.

Everlasting LuvBREAKERZ

BREAKERZ「Everlasting Luv」Music Video(full ver.)
Everlasting LuvBREAKERZ

BREAKERZ made a striking debut in 2007 as a three-member visual kei rock band.

The members are DAIGO, AKIHIDE, and SHINPEI.

With a lineup featuring vocals and twin guitars, they’re known for their powerful sound and energetic live performances.

They have provided numerous tie-in songs for popular anime, winning over anime fans as well.

In 2020, their album “BREAKERZ” reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, underscoring their musical excellence and consistency.

Since the band’s formation, each member has also been active as a solo artist, channeling that experience back into the band—another key part of their appeal.

They’re highly recommended for music fans who grew up on visual kei and anime songs.

FANTASISTADragon Ash

They’re a mixture rock band that incorporates a variety of genres, including rock, punk, hip-hop, and reggae.

People in their 30s might associate them strongly with hip-hop, but they’re a band with many other great songs as well.

Recommended Japanese bands for men in their 40s (41–50)

C7GO!GO!7188

They were a band that established themselves as a Japanese-style rock group with a music style rooted in GS sounds.

From edgy, punk-tinged tracks to heartrending ballads, every song had a strong, distinctive character and was undeniably cool, but they unfortunately disbanded in 2012.

HANABIMr.Children

Mr.Children「HANABI」 Tour2015 REFLECTION Live
HANABIMr.Children

Formed in 1989, they are one of Japan’s most popular and representative bands.

The vocalist, Kazutoshi Sakurai, has a sweet, wistful voice that appeals to fans of all generations.

Many of their releases are tie-in songs, and they enjoy such widespread support in the media that there’s hardly a day you don’t hear one of their tracks.