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] (81–90)
Become sharp like steelNUMBER GIRL
It’s a single released in 2000.
It’s cool from the intro all the way to the outro.
You could almost say there isn’t a band in Japan today that hasn’t been influenced by NUMBER GIRL—they’ve had that much impact on today’s bands.
I think this song is packed with everything that makes that band amazing.
Golden GraffitiROTTENGRAFFTY
A song whose cry, woven from anger and delicacy, hits you in the chest.
While searingly expressing distrust and rage toward society and a sense of loneliness, it also entrusts hope for the future to scenes bathed in the golden hues of dusk.
Released as a new track on ROTTENGRAFFTY’s December 2011 album “GOLD,” this piece is a masterpiece where loud rock and melodic elements are brilliantly balanced.
Created by guitarist KAZUOMI from bittersweet memories of youth, it was also chosen as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s “Kudamaki Hachibei X” in January 2012.
It resonates deeply with those who feel the hardships of modern society or wish to immerse themselves in memories of the past.
swallowtail butterflyPorunogurafiti
Released by Porno Graffitti in June 2001, this song is characterized by lyrics that portray the desire to be loved and the pain of unrequited love.
Chosen as the theme for an FT Shiseido commercial, it topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for the third consecutive time and sold approximately 920,000 copies.
With a lively rhythm infused with Latin elements and striking tones of ethnic instruments, it’s a memorable track.
Recommended not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone feeling nostalgic about their youth.
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.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
This is a heartwarming song that leaves an impression with its theme of youthful memories and friendship.
It sings of parting from friends and the hope of reunion, with feelings woven in a secret place carried by a beautiful melody.
ZONE’s charming harmonies and vocals that convey hope even within a sense of melancholy make this a moving piece.
Released as their third single in August 2001, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama-30 series “Kids War 3: Zakenna yo” and reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The song also won the Best New Artist Award at the 34th Japan Cable Awards.
It’s an approachable track for beginners in rock to practice, so definitely give it a try!
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.
Love BombB’z
An exhilarating rock tune where Takahiro Matsumoto’s powerful guitar intertwines with Koshi Inaba’s overwhelming vocals.
The lyrics portray a forceful determination to deliver the power of love so that even in an imperfect world, a single smile can bloom—words that truly give you courage.
Released in March 2005 as their 38th single, this track is also included on the acclaimed album “THE CIRCLE.” If you’re looking for the energy to face a challenge, just listening to this song will surely give you a strong push forward.
It’s a track that fuels you for tomorrow.
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.
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.
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.