【2026】A Roundup of Japanese Bassists: From Big Names to Rising Stars
When you hear “Japanese bassists,” which players come to mind? The bass is sometimes described as the unsung hero, but it’s the core of a band’s sound, and a great bassist’s groove has the power to move listeners.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected bassists ranging from legendary figures to promising newcomers from the next generation.
Be sure to check them out—you might just discover a talent you didn’t know about!
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- 【2026】A Roundup of Japanese Bassists: From Big Names to Rising Stars
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[2026] Roundup of Japanese Bassists: From Big Names to Up-and-Comers (91–100)
The season of CRAZY FOR YOUSekine Shiori
Shiori Sekine is a bassist from Saitama Prefecture who plays bass in Base Ball Bear and, under her solo project name stico, also performs on the Chapman Stick.
Although her image is strongly associated with rock and pop due to her work with Base Ball Bear, the foundation of her musicality lies in progressive rock, which comes through clearly in her stico tracks.
As a bassist, her playing style supports the vocals and lead guitar, whereas on the Chapman Stick she takes a more forward, coloristic role in the music—making the contrast between her styles part of what makes her such an enjoyable player.
FULL HOUSEMina
MINA is a musician who made her mark as a member of GIRLFRIEND and also works as a bassist, singer-songwriter, and creator.
Her musical foundation lies in the piano she encountered in childhood, and she has said that from there she mainly studied dance.
She first picked up the bass when GIRLFRIEND was formed, and from that point she taught herself and developed her bass skills.
Her technical playing style is a key highlight; she skillfully uses busy fingerstyle lines and slap techniques to add sharpness and color to the music.
She’s an appealing player not only for supporting the songs, but also for asserting a strong presence with the bass itself.
[2026] Japanese Bassists Roundup: Introducing Everyone from Big Names to Young Talents (101–110)
OVER DRIVEYoshinaka Miyu
They showcase dazzling tapping and slapping techniques used in hard rock and metal.
Alongside their drummer brother, their sense of rhythm is excellent, and the crisp, punchy tone is outstanding.
It’s astonishing that someone with this level of technique and ability was born in the 2000s.
I’m excited to see what they accomplish next.
boyShinoda Tomohito
Characterized by a fervent vocal delivery and a powerful bassline, this track vividly portrays the struggles and hopes of youth.
The striking contrast between its robust rock sound and delicate lyrics leaves a strong impression and is sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in June 2018, the song is beloved by many as a signature work of the rock band Hump Back.
Frequently performed at live shows and in media appearances, it serves as a voice for young people.
Singing about the emotions of those wavering between dreams and reality, this piece is especially recommended for anyone anxious about the future or searching for their own path.
BOXER’S ROADTakeshi
Takeshi is the bassist for YAMA-ARASHI, a mixture rock band active since 1996, known for a hard musical style that embodies rap metal.
As if to anchor the band’s heavy, loud sound, he’s a bassist distinguished by a massive, thick bass tone.
In addition to his work with YAMA-ARASHI, he launched a solo project called ALLY & DIAZ, and he is also active as the touring/recording bassist for Kenji Furuya’s solo work and for OZROSAURUS in their band set.
I got a girlfriend.Matsuoka Aya
Aya Matsuoka is a bassist from Osaka Prefecture who joined SHISHAMO in 2014 as Ayaka Matsumoto’s successor.
Her musical foundation comes from playing trumpet and oboe in her school’s concert band, and she encountered the bass after joining her high school’s light music club.
She has said that the first song she ever covered was GO!GO!7188’s “Kunoichi,” which is a charming point of connection she shares with vocalist Asako Miyazaki.
Her playing style gives the impression of straightforward rock: she maintains tight overall balance while enhancing the fun of each song through buoyant tone and expressive movement.
Dirty rainbowUeda Daisuke
The bassist of the DIY rock band Yellow Stubs, whose roots lie in garage rock, jazz, and country.
He primarily plays upright bass, adding a distinctive resonance that adorns their songs with colorful flourishes.
He’s said to be quite stoic and never skips practice.
He also has experience appearing in music videos as an actor.