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 J-Rock Songs from the 2000s [Japanese Rock] (31–40)
GO!!!FLOW
The single that FLOW, a rock band known for many anime songs, released in 2004 is “GO!!!”.
When it was selected as the fourth opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime Naruto, it reached No.
6 on the Oricon singles chart and went on to stay in the Top 10 for three consecutive weeks.
It’s a high-tempo, upbeat tune with lyrics sprinkled with references that evoke the ninja-themed story of the anime.
a fact of lifeFACT
The song FACT released in April 2009 blends elements of post-hardcore and progressive rock.
Its lyrics, which express gratitude for the past and the importance of memories, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Included on their second album, Fact, this track became a defining song that symbolizes the band’s success.
With powerful vocals and loud, highly skilled instrumentals, it’s irresistible for post-hardcore fans.
It’s especially recommended for times when you want to look back on the past or carve your own history.
PearlTHE YELLOW MONKEY
Pearl is a single released in 2000 by the rock band THE YELLOW MONKEY, who made their major-label debut in 1992.
The song is dedicated to Shigeru Nakahara, a promoter at the band’s agency who helped achieve their success and who passed away suddenly in 2000.
It is said to hold deep personal significance for vocalist Kazuya Yoshii, who produced the track.
Characterized by a powerful punk rock sound, it reached No.
6 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
Succubus ~ The NightmareBUCK-TICK
This track appears near the end of BUCK-TICK’s standout concept album “Juusankai wa Gekkou,” released in April 2005.
It conjures a nightmare-like scene in which a wandering soul in the afterlife joins the procession of a hyakki-yagyō.
The dramatic development woven by the heavy band sound and ethereal sonics pulls the listener into a darkly beautiful realm.
A centerpiece of the band’s gothic live staging, it’s the perfect song for immersing yourself in a decadent, beautiful worldview.
A Little Love SongMONGOL800
MONGOL800’s “Chiisana Koi no Uta” has been covered by many artists and loved by a wide range of generations for many years.
Despite never being released as a single, it became a long-running hit, surpassing 100 million total streams in 2021.
It was also used as an insert song in the 2007 Fuji TV drama “Operation Love” (Proposal Daisakusen).
Its driving sound and straightforward love lyrics make it a huge favorite for karaoke.
Masterpieces by 2000s Japanese Rock Bands [J-Rock] (41–50)
cobalt blueThe Back Horn
This song, included on THE BACK HORN’s March 2005 album Headphone Children by one of the bands representing Japan’s 2000s rock scene, is highly regarded as one of their signature works.
Featuring powerful guitar riffs and Masashi Yamada’s distinctive vocals, it vividly sings of life’s transience, despair, and the hope of renewal.
It was also used as an insert song in the film CASSHERN, drawing further attention for its perfect match with the movie’s worldview.
It’s a track I recommend to anyone feeling lost in life.
Graduationgagaga supi
A four-piece rock band that thrived during the early-2000s youth punk boom and has even been called “Japan’s oldest youth punk band,” Gagaga SP released this as their third single overall and their major-label debut single.
The punk sound that launches at full throttle from the very beginning, paired with lyrics that perfectly embody the bittersweet spirit of youth punk, created an impact that truly symbolizes the 2000s J-pop scene.
Its simple phrases and a chorus that makes you want to sing along practically beg to be imagined in a live setting.
It’s a song where heat and exhilaration coexist—one you’ll want to revisit precisely in dark times.
