【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] Japanese Bassists Roundup: From Big Names to Rising Talent (21–30)
New Treasure IslandKusakari Manami
The bassist of Sakanaction, a five-member co-ed rock band formed in 2005.
He’s a highly skilled player who underpins the sonic world crafted by vocalist Ichiro Yamaguchi—often dubbed a “sound pervert”—with solid low end.
Having played in numerous bands since his teens, he was already well-known in his hometown of Sapporo during the indie era.
A versatile musician with wide-ranging musicality, he flexibly switches between sounds and techniques as needed for each track, using tools like synth bass when the song calls for it rather than sticking solely to acoustic instruments.
Wax MuseumZenon Ishikawa
Mr.
Xenon Ishikawa, a member of Seikima-II, is memorable for playing bass while wearing horns.
In the human world, he performs under the name Shunsuke Ishikawa.
He attended Tama Art University, which is also known for producing Yumi Matsutoya, and he is knowledgeable not only in music but also in the arts such as painting and photography.
He once held the position of former Director of the Demon World’s Cultural Bureau.
As is often the case with bassists, he has a calm and taciturn personality, which has earned him the nickname “Oshō” (the Monk).
In 2017, he also released an instructional video featuring his human-world makeup.
It’s not me unless it’s mekyūjitsu kachō
Bassist of the mixed-gender four-piece rock band Gesu no Kiwami Otome, formed in 2012.
As the bassist of a band that incorporates elements from various genres such as progressive rock and hip-hop, she specializes in an exceptionally precise and high-level playing style that defies what her name and appearance might suggest.
She has also drawn attention for her multifaceted activities outside of music, including appearances on popular shows like Terrace House.
A star-like manEBI
He is the bassist of Unicorn, who achieved a reunion.
His bass playing, adaptable to a wide range of songs, is highly regarded by fellow musicians.
After Unicorn disbanded, he fulfilled his dream of joining ARB, and in the three-piece band MADBEAVERS, he showcases a distinctively different style of playing.
WELCOME TO MY DOG HOUSEHirose Yoichi
The bassist of the four-piece rock band THE YELLOW MONKEY, which reunited in 2016.
Known for his impactful Thunderbird as a trademark, he creates the band’s distinctive groove.
He skillfully weaves into their songs basslines and song structures inspired by tracks from bands that influenced him, making him not just a technically proficient bassist but also a musician with a playful spirit.
He’s the kind of bassist who offers new discoveries with every listen as you notice the different bass approaches he uses in each track.
You Can Do It!Sakurai Tetsuo
An original member of Casiopea, one of Japan’s premier fusion bands.
His versatile slap technique transcends genres and is showcased in jazz, rock, Latin music, and more.
He has had a profound influence on many bassists.
In 2015, with fellow bassist Seiji Kameda as producer and a lineup of star guest musicians, he released the 35th-anniversary album “Nothin’ but the Bass.” Hailed as a “dream collaboration,” it created a buzz across the industry.
MARIONETTEMatsui Tsunematsu
The bassist of BOØWY, a four-piece rock band remembered as a pivotal group in Japanese rock history.
When people hear BOØWY, attention tends to go to members like vocalist Kyosuke Himuro and guitarist Tomoyasu Hotei, who built successful solo careers after the band split.
However, hits like “B・BLUE” and “MARIONETTE” can’t be discussed without Tsunematsu Matsui’s bass.
He’s not a bassist known for the intricate playing that dominates today’s rock scene; instead, his bass lines fulfill the instrument’s original role—supporting the foundation of the music—with a cool, understated style.
A quietly brilliant bassist who anchored the low end of a legendary band.