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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Iconic songs by 2000s Japanese rock bands [J-Rock] (21–30)
red-yellow fragrant olive (Osmanthus fragrans)Fujifaburikku
This is the third single by the rock band Fujifabric, who continued as a three-piece even after the sudden passing of Masahiko Shimura, their peerless singer-songwriter and central figure.
Released as the third entry in a series of singles themed around the four seasons, the song draws you into its world from the very beginning, with a gentle, autumnal arpeggio and the soothing resonance of slide guitar.
It’s a track where you can savor Fujifabric’s signature soundscapes—like the bassline that creates depth and the organ tones.
In the J-pop scene of the 2000s, when new musical sensibilities were emerging, this melancholic piece asserted its presence with an unwavering worldview and distinctive mode of expression.
red-orangeACIDMAN
Akadachidai is the song that boosted the profile of ACIDMAN, a three-piece rock band that had been active in the indie scene since the 1990s.
It was released as an indie single in 2000 and re-released in 2002 after their major-label debut.
It was chosen as the opening theme for the music program COUNT DOWN TV and received heavy rotation on radio.
The chords and melodies, which reflect influences from Black music such as jazz and R&B, are stylish and striking.
The lyrics, with their enigmatic worldview and mysterious atmosphere, are also compelling.
Melodic Stormsutoreitenaa
A four-piece rock band, Straightener’s fifth major-label single.
Released as an advance single from their third album, “Dear Deadman,” it’s a refreshing, guitar-focused track that feels great to listen to.
With a melodic bass line that goes beyond simple root notes, it creates a straightforward yet distinctly post-1990s groove.
The dynamic beats and the sudden development in the instrumental break, among other meticulously calculated elements, make it a highly polished, next-generation rock number.
sailing dayBUMP OF CHICKEN
Released in March 2003 by BUMP OF CHICKEN as a double A-side single with “Lost Man,” this track was selected as the ending theme for the film “ONE PIECE THE MOVIE: Dead End no Bōken” (Dead End Adventure).
As fans of the series themselves, the band crafted a high-velocity rock tune infused with motifs of adventure and setting sail.
The lyrics, which sing of the will to face destiny and the resolve to keep chasing one’s dreams, deeply resonated with young listeners at the time.
Peaking at No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and later included on the album “Yggdrasil,” it has become one of their signature songs and a staple that unites fans at live shows.
It’s a highly recommended track for anyone about to take a new step forward.
BABY BABYGOING STEADY
One of GOING STEADY’s signature songs, with vocals by Kazunobu Mineta, who is also active as an actor, from a band that helped lead the youth punk rock boom of the 2000s.
It’s a track included on the classic album Sakura no Uta, and it captures that quintessential youth punk mix of breakneck energy, recklessness, and an indescribable nostalgia.
For listeners who heard this song in real time in the early 2000s, I bet it will make your heart burn with emotion the moment you press play.
Claw Claw ClawMakishimamu Za Horumon
Maximum the Hormone is a hardcore rock band representing Japan, and they made their major-label debut in 2002.
“Zetsubou Billy” was released as their eighth single in 2008, a track packed with the band’s signature hard, loud sound.
It reached No.
2 on the Oricon Singles Chart and was used as the opening theme for Nippon TV’s Music Fighter.
Marty Friedman, the former Megadeth guitarist, also covered it on his album Tokyo Jukebox.
Stargazersupittsu
Spitz is a rock band that captivates with their one-of-a-kind vocals and lyrical worldview.
Their 28th single, released in 2004, is “Stargazer.” It became a hot topic when it was chosen as the theme song for the popular Fuji TV romance reality show Ainori.
Inspired by the show, vocalist Masamune Kusano reportedly wrote the lyrics while imagining “a single night spent waiting for a response to a confession.” Although the word “love” isn’t stated outright in the lyrics, you can still feel the intense emotion of being in love—so be sure to listen with that in mind!
