Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
When you think of Japanese rock bands from the 2000s, which bands come to mind?
You might think of the quintessential guitar rock bands like BUMP OF CHICKEN, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, ELLEGARDEN, and Fujifabric, or the bands that supported the early-2000s youth punk movement such as 175R and Gagaga SP.
There were also many bands that became widely known beyond rock fans, like Tokyo Jihen, ORANGE RANGE, and HY, so I’m sure each listener has their own bands that pop into mind.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide selection of signature tracks and recommended favorites from rock bands that were active in the 2000s.
We’ve picked everything from nostalgic tunes to timeless staples that are still going strong today, so take this opportunity to give them a careful listen once again.
- A roundup of nostalgic bands recommended for men in their 30s [’90s & ’00s]
- [Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by V-kei bands from the 2000s
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- 2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
- A compilation of cool Japanese rock band songs. Recommended tracks for cover bands.
- Cool band: A rock band that represents Japan
- Band Rankings Popular Among People in Their 40s [2026]
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- Girls’ rock: female vocal bands that were active in the 2000s
- From emotional tracks to exhilarating tunes! Heisei-era youth songs
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days
Masterpieces by 2000s Japanese Rock Bands [J-Rock] (81–90)
Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi
Released in 2007, this piece is a masterpiece that deeply moves fans.
The lyrics, which sing of hope for the future and the bonds between companions, give a powerful push to anyone who listens.
Hiroji Miyamoto’s passionate vocals, united with the band’s performance, leave a profound impression.
It’s a song that can give you courage when you’re struggling in life or on the verge of giving up.
Big mouthMissile Girl Scoot
From ska-inflected rhythms to ferocious nu-metal, Missile Girl Scoot’s whirlwind sound will blow music fans away.
With dual female vocals that alternately scream and sing—sometimes fierce, sometimes gentle—this track delivers a shocking opening to the album FIESTA!.
Released in February 2000, FIESTA! earned high praise as an ambitious work that weaves together ska, punk, hard rock, and more.
Its powerful messages of anger and conflict toward society, paired with a shape-shifting soundscape, embody the essence of mixture rock.
Highly recommended for those who want to push the possibilities of music and experience a bold, genre-crossing sound.
Bingosukebōkingu
The sound that brilliantly fuses hip-hop’s groovy beats with punk rock’s energy made a striking impact with Skebo King’s debut single released in 1997.
Riding on a deep, heavy bassline and sharp scratching, the flow strikes a perfect balance of humor and cool.
In 2000, the track was included as a remixed version on their major-label debut album “SUPER BEST,” revived with fresh arrangements by Captain Funk.
It’s a standout not only for lighting up party scenes, but also as an exceptional soundtrack for a drive.
Enjoying near-legendary status, this track remains a shining landmark of the Japanese mixture-rock scene.
BLOW BACK [HOUSE OF THE RISING FUNK]YKZ
![BLOW BACK [HOUSE OF THE RISING FUNK]YKZ](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/N2GBfvoa6uA/sddefault.jpg)
YKZ’s fusion rock explodes with shocking power and heat.
A deep, funky bassline intertwines exquisitely with skillful rap work, while a razor-edged guitar sound infused with Latin and funk elements crafts a unique sonic world.
Released in July 2002 by Sony Music Entertainment, this track is included on the album “THE FIRE THAT BURNS WITHIN” and was produced to commemorate the band’s confirmed appearance at that year’s FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL.
With its fierce sound and groovy rhythms, this is a highly recommended track for energetic workouts or whenever you want to elevate your mood.
CampioneORANGE RANGE
ORANGE RANGE is a five-member rock band whose songs, performed by a three-MC lineup each with different vocal ranges, captivate fans with their wide expressive power.
Their 13th single, “Champione,” used as the broadcast theme song for NHK’s coverage of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, was created with the image of the “Agony of Doha,” an unforgettable moment for soccer fans.
Its memorable choral work and pop-rock ensemble deliver a refreshing feel that pairs perfectly with the summer atmosphere.
It’s a catchy, upbeat tune that makes you want to hum along whenever it plays as background music.
sparklergagaga supi
When it comes to youth anthems by rock bands, you just can’t leave out songs by Gagaga SP.
Among them, the one you absolutely have to hear is their signature track, “Senkou Hanabi.” Listening to the rough-edged sound, the melodies, and Kozak Maeda’s husky voice singing down-to-earth lyrics, I think many people feel that tight squeeze deep in their chest.
The “bittersweet love you can never forget” sung about in the lyrics—doesn’t everyone have something that comes to mind? It’s a classic piece of youth punk you suddenly get an irresistible urge to listen to every now and then.
Masterpieces by 2000s Japanese rock bands [J-Rock] (91–100)
MUKANJYOSurvive Said The Prophet
Survive Said The Prophet is a much-talked-about band leading today’s Japanese loud rock scene.
With exceptional musicianship and impressive vocals as their weapons, they continue to earn strong support from rock fans across the country.
You’ve probably heard their name, haven’t you? The clean, crisp, and cool vocal parts are wonderful, of course, but the intense screaming that kicks in toward the latter half of the song is also incredibly cool and one of their key charms.
If you like loud, emo, or alternative, this is a track you absolutely need to hear.