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Japanese girl bands: recommended popular bands

Even within Japan’s music scene, many all-girl bands are drawing a lot of attention.

From cute charm and beauty to delicate tenderness and powerful coolness, these bands have a wide range of appeal—so it’s no surprise many people have recently become fans.

In this article, we’ve researched some of the most talked-about Japanese all-girl bands!

Whether you’ve just gotten into girl bands or you’re a music fan looking for something new, this lineup is for you.

We’ve picked bands from a wide spectrum, so be sure to find your new favorite all-girl band.

Japanese girls' bands: Recommended popular bands (81–90)

With the Sun in TowVELVET PΛW

VELVET PAW – Bringing the Sun (PV)
With the Sun in TowVELVET PΛW

VELVET PΛW was a Japanese all-female progressive rock band active from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s.

Their sound was influenced by AOR bands such as TOTO and JOURNEY, and they were a distinctive girls’ band known for their unique musicality that incorporated elements of progressive rock and hard rock from both Japan and abroad.

With high-level musicianship and progressive song structures, they stood apart from other all-female bands.

Although they went on hiatus in 1995, their technical prowess and musicality continue to be recognized today.

Buried in teddy bearsROSY

In the early ’90s, one group that stood out with a unique presence was the all-female band ROSY.

While rooted in rock, their hallmark was a diverse musical style that also embraced pop and funk.

Their energetic sound and catchy melodies captivated many fans.

They made a bold debut in March 1990 with the single “Girls Kiss,” and that November, “Planning Panic Show Depending on the Mood That Day” was featured as an insert song on a skiing information program, drawing attention.

Although no awards have been confirmed, “Buried in a Teddy Bear,” written and composed by Masamune Kusano of Spitz and released in November 1995, became a hot topic.

They also provided theme songs for a golf program and a high school baseball news program, proving their solid capabilities.

If you’re exploring distinctive girl bands from the ’90s, ROSY’s music might offer a fresh discovery.

justiceLAURELS

LAURELS “Justice” Music Video
justiceLAURELS

A girls’ band known for its powerful sound rooted in alternative rock and grunge.

Formed in 2018 in a university light music club, they are currently based in Osaka.

They debuted in 2020 with the self-produced EP “a gold star,” and released their first mini-album “BONNO” in 2021.

Their distinctive melodic lines and expressive live performances captivate audiences.

Their style blends heavy guitar tones with clean melodies, featuring edgy tracks centered on punk and melodic elements.

A must-listen for fans of alternative rock and grunge.

I hope I can be your lover.Kaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru [I Hope I Can Be Your Lover] Music Video
I hope I can be your lover.Kaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru is a three-piece girls’ rock band based in Osaka, formed in 2014.

The members are Chitose Mina, Ishihara Mei, and Morimoto Sana, and they deliver a rock sound driven by pop melodies and powerful vocals.

They began in 2016 with a self-produced CD titled “Shisuko,” and made their major-label debut in 2023 with their first full-length album, “Watashi no Nocturne,” on Victor Entertainment.

Influenced by bands like BUMP OF CHICKEN and Chatmonchy, their songs sensitively portray everyday emotions and resonate with many listeners.

In September 2024, they sold out a one-man show at Osaka-jo Ongakudo.

They’re highly recommended for those who connect with down-to-earth, relatable lyrics.

Ojamajo Carnival!!SORAMIMI

[MV] SORAMIMI 'Ojamajo Carnival!! (Short ver.)'
Ojamajo Carnival!!SORAMIMI

This is the debut single released by SORAMIMI, a four-piece girls’ band formed in 2013, featuring a cover of a popular anime song.

It adds a pop-rock arrangement.

In addition to this track, the single includes two more covers: Fushigi na Melmo and Seiron, for a total of three songs.

star shapeSplit End

"Hoshi no Katachi" - Split End (Official Music Video)
star shapeSplit End

Split end is an alternative girls’ band from Nara.

Their appeal lies in vocalist Nanami’s clear, translucent voice paired with a goosebump-inducing, emotional shoegaze sound.

Their music feels like pure emotion transformed into songs—utterly unique—and it leaves an ineffable something lingering in your heart after you listen.

Perfect for fans of emo bands or anyone seeking a lyrical, all-female band.

Japanese girl bands. Recommended popular bands (91–100)

Maple CanadaThe Wisely Brothers

The Wisely Brothers / Maple Canada [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
Maple CanadaThe Wisely Brothers

The Wisely Brothers are a band with a wonderfully pleasant sound, blending Japanese lyrics with an indie rock feel from Western music for a fresh listening experience.

The story of how they formed in their first year of high school—three members lined up in alphabetical order—is also delightfully quirky.

Their laid-back sound is irresistibly charming, making them a rock band I can recommend even to those who are tired of Japanese rock.