【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] Japanese Bassists Roundup: From Big Names to Rising Talent (21–30)
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.
KAMIKenKen
A highly skilled bassist with a track record of playing with and supporting numerous bands, including Dragon Ash.
Raised in a musical family, he forms the rhythm section of RIZE alongside his drummer brother, Nobuaki Kaneko, solidifying the band’s foundation.
Primarily a fingerstyle player, he also incorporates slapping and a technique that produces a pick-like tone with his fingers, making him an exceptionally charismatic bassist.
Beyond rock, he also shines in funk—one of his musical roots—delivering performances full of groove.
[2026] Japanese Bassists Roundup: From Big Names to Rising Stars (31–40)
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.
Bassist BOH Bass Play DemonstrationBOH
BOH is a bassist who masterfully handles the 6-string bass, captivating audiences with lightning-fast playing that blends slap and tapping techniques.
He showcases his extraordinary skills as a member of BABYMETAL’s backing band, the Kami Band, and is highly acclaimed worldwide.
By the way, the name “BOH” doesn’t come from his hairstyle; it’s derived from his real surname, Bōte (written 棒手).
Why I’m meTOKIE
TOKIE, who was active as an original member of the rap-rock band RIZE, can rightly be called one of Japan’s leading female bassists.
After leaving RIZE, she has worked across a wide range of projects, including Tatsuya Nakamura’s LOSALIOS, the instrumental band unkie, and ACE OF SPADES led by GLAY’s HISASHI.
She originally started playing bass after taking up the contrabass in a brass band, and her activities span an impressive range: from playing electric bass in rock bands to joining jazz sessions on upright bass.
Her uniquely captivating presence—almost like a graceful dance—and her bass lines are truly one-of-a-kind.
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.
ButterflyNaoi Yoshifumi
The bassist of BUMP OF CHICKEN, a band loved by a wide range of fans from adults to children.
He’s strongly associated with pick playing, but he nails it with fingerstyle too.
His bass lines, which gently support the vocals, are truly beautiful and wonderful.