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.
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Masterpieces by 2000s Japanese Rock Bands [J-Rock] (1–10)
All of the YouthFujifaburikku
A gem of a song left behind by the late band’s central figure, Masahiko Shimura.
Many people are likely to think of this track as summer draws to a close.
Closely associated with keywords like “the peak of midsummer,” “the 5 p.m.
chime,” and “the last fireworks,” this piece can only be seen as a milestone masterpiece—indispensable when discussing the Japanese music scene of the 2000s.
Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen
This is the debut single by Tokyo Jihen, a five-piece rock band formed around Ringo Sheena—who enjoys immense popularity for her one-of-a-kind musicality—together with a lineup of top-tier musicians.
Beyond its distinctive vocals, every instrument commands attention, making for a track with a powerful, memorable impact no matter where you focus.
It became an emblematic song of a 2000s J-pop trend in which singer-songwriters were not presented as solo acts with backing bands, but as full-fledged members of a band.
The track is also known for its high quality, brimming with each member’s individuality.
A brisk, exhilarating rock tune that serves as both an introduction and a showcase of the extraordinary band that is Tokyo Jihen.
Midnight Claxon BabyTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT
A track by THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT, the rock band known by abbreviations like “Michelle” and “TMGE,” which, despite their short period of activity, made a tremendous impact on the J-pop scene.
With an aggressive vocal delivery and a beefy, hard-hitting sound that screams “this is rock,” along with uniquely styled lyrics, this number lets you fully experience Michelle’s appeal.
The hysteric guitar tones and tight beats are the kind that naturally get any rock fan’s adrenaline pumping.
Within its short runtime, the song is packed with a one-of-a-kind sound that stood alone in the 2000s.
Masterpieces by Japanese Rock Bands from the 2000s [J-Rock] (11–20)
UkifuneGO!GO!7188
For rock band fans in their 30s, GO!GO!7188 is a nostalgic name.
They formed in 1999 and made their major debut the following year, but sadly disbanded in 2012.
One of the songs that helped boost GO!GO!7188’s popularity is Ukifune, released in 2002, which became a smash hit.
It blends an enka-style, traditional Japanese melody with rock sounds, and drew attention across many media outlets.
The music video is also uniquely crafted, featuring illustrations that evoke a sense of traditional Japan—be sure to check it out!
PLACEBOBRAHMAN
BRAHMAN left a striking mark on the Japanese rock scene of the 2000s.
This track is included on the album “THE MIDDLE WAY,” released in September 2004.
Its unique world, where intense yet melodic sound merges with delicate lyrics, is compelling, and it’s one of the fan favorites often played live.
A slow-tempo rock ballad, it’s the kind of song you’ll find yourself deeply absorbed in before you know it.
The introspective lyrics, themed around the conflict of emotions born from passing days, loneliness, and parting, will likely resonate with each listener’s own state of mind.
A proofACIDMAN
A pioneering post-rock act emblematic of the 2000s.
They quickly rose to popularity with emotionally charged arrangements and literary lyrics.
The world their songs create resonates differently with each listener, and no matter your age, revisiting them evokes a fresh sense of wonder.
4REST10-FEET
The title track of 10-FEET’s album “4REST,” by the three-piece rock band from Kyoto.
The lyrics carry a positive, powerful message that gives listeners courage and hope.
Their stance of singing about the strength to face loneliness and hardship is truly moving.
Released in July 2005, this song remains a staple at their live shows and can rightly be called one of 10-FEET’s signature tracks.
It’s the perfect song for when you’re feeling down or need to fire yourself up.