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 Japanese Rock Bands from the 2000s [J-Rock] (61–70)
One Night CarnivalKishidan
Kishidan’s “One Night Carnival,” which became a social phenomenon with its distinctive dance performed in long school coats, was first released independently in 2001 and sold about 80,000 copies.
It was then released as their major-label debut single in 2002, reaching No.
7 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
It’s a fast-paced rock tune, and its chants and choreography make it a popular choice for karaoke.
In 2022, a tribute album titled “All Night Carnival,” featuring various artists covering “One Night Carnival,” was released.
I BEG YOUTHE BAWDIES
THE BAWDIES captivate with a passionate musical style reminiscent of 1960s rock ’n’ roll.
Their debut single, released in April 2008, grabbed the hearts of rock fans.
The combination of ROY’s raspy vocals and the band’s energetic performance creates songs that make you feel your heart ignite as you listen.
Also included on the album “Awaking of Rhythm And Blues,” this track is a classic that embodies the essence of rock ’n’ roll.
Their live performances—taking the stage in suits—are a must-see!
RALLYCymbals
A late-’90s masterpiece that captures the push-and-pull of romance with deft melodies and a breezy pop sound.
The lyrics liken the psychological battle between a man and a woman to a tennis rally, brilliantly portraying the intellectual feints that toy with the other person, all polished by a driving, exhilarating arrangement.
Released in August 1999 and written and composed by Reiji Okii, the track is also included on the album “That’s Entertainment.” Its wry humor and Asako Toki’s transparent, airy vocals are a perfect match, making it a recommended song for anyone who wants to savor the sweet-and-sour taste of love.
WAY IT ISLow IQ 01
This track by LOW IQ 01 stands out with an aggressive sound that strongly evokes punk.
The powerful guitar riffs and dynamic vocals resonate, making you feel incredibly energized as you listen.
Included on the 2007 mini-album “THAT’S THE WAY IT IS,” the song incorporates elements from not only punk but also dance and funk, drawing on a variety of musical genres.
True to LOW IQ 01’s style, the lyrics convey insight and reflection on social and personal issues, resulting in a highly message-driven piece that resonates deeply with listeners.
Way of DifferenceGLAY
GLAY is a rock band that took the world by storm as a visual kei act.
“Way of Difference,” released in 2002, was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s romance reality show Ainori.
It’s a standout track that lets you experience a gentler side of their rock, a stark contrast to their usual intensity.
Pay attention to the warm, tender vocals and the sounds of the guitar and bass.
The lyrics, which trace a journey from meeting to parting, unfold with such calm that even farewell feels cherished.
Family LandscapeHanaregumi
Hanaregumi is the solo project of Takashi Nagazumi, the vocalist of SUPER BUTTER DOG, one of Japan’s leading funk bands.
Its appeal lies in songs that highlight an acoustic, folk-like sound, distinct from the band’s style.
The 2002 debut single “Kazoku no Fukei” (“Family’s Scenery”) is one such track, where acoustic guitar, upright bass, and brushed drums create a somewhat nostalgic sound.
The lyrics about a father and mother are poignant and really hit you in the heart.
holly (Japanese holly tree, Ilex crenata)Do As Infinity
Hiiragi is the 17th single by Do As Infinity, released in 2003.
It was used as the theme song for the TBS drama Love Letter: The Man We Loved and reached No.
7 on the Oricon singles chart.
The winter-themed lyrics carry a certain poignancy, resulting in a ballad that evokes a sense of loss.
The music video was filmed in Hokkaido, and the cover features a photograph taken on Oshima Ōshima, also in Hokkaido.
summer festivalWhiteberry
The big hit single released in 2000 by Whiteberry, a girls’ band formed in 1994, is “Natsu Matsuri.” The song was originally released in 1990 as a single by the rock band JITTERIN’JINN, and both versions became major hits, reaching No.
3 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
The Whiteberry version was used as the theme song for the drama “Fushigi na Hanashi,” and its total sales far surpassed those of the original.
H.A.N.A.B.I ~The Summer You Were There~ZONE
A summer rock number that blends a driving sense of speed with a poignant ache, as if awakening the faint stirrings of first love slumbering deep in the heart.
The Hokkaido-born girls’ band ZONE released it in 2003 as their 10th major-label single.
Its lyrics, which capture fleeting yet cherished moments of love against summer scenes—fireworks, sunsets, and shrine stone steps—resonate no matter how old you are.
Issued as a strictly limited-edition run of 100,000 copies with six tracks, including solo arrangements for each member, it reached No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart and was certified Gold.
Though it had no tie-ins, it became a classic on the strength of the song alone, winning over many listeners’ hearts.
It’s a track you’ll want to play when that sudden end-of-summer loneliness hits, or when you feel like remembering who you were back then.
Grateful DaysDragon Ash
Released by Dragon Ash in May 1999, this song was a major hit, topping the Oricon charts and selling around 900,000 copies.
It’s included on the album Viva La Revolution.
Featuring guest appearances by Zeebra and ACO, the track drew attention as a signature song that embodies Dragon Ash’s mix of genres.
Its distinctive sound, blending hip-hop and rock, brought a fresh breeze to the music scene at the time.
Many people probably sang this at karaoke back in their school days, didn’t they?