【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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- Western songs with cool bass lines: classic and popular tracks recommended for bassists
- Recent songs sung by male vocalists in Japanese music [2026]
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[2026] Roundup of Japanese Bassists: From Famous Names to Up-and-Comers (41–50)
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoTakeda Yusuke
Bassist of the four-piece rock band RADWIMPS from Kanagawa Prefecture.
The band is known for its catchy melodies and striking guitar phrases, but it’s no exaggeration to say that these are made possible by the solid bass playing that underpins them.
Despite an impressive background as a graduate of the jazz program at Senzoku Gakuen College of Music, he once bluntly stated that he joined RADWIMPS simply because they were famous—an attitude that alone gives off an unmistakable aura of someone out of the ordinary.
With a playing style characterized by slap techniques on extended-range basses, he’s a musician you definitely should check out.
I’ve fallen in love with Mr. Tears.ikariya chōsuke
Although “Chō-san” is incredibly famous as a comedian, did you know he was actually a musician as well? His classic technique of plucking the strings with the thumb—rarely seen today—is known as the “Ikariya style” or “Chō-san picking.”
Distance of the Starry SkySakurai Ken
Mr.
Masaru Sakurai, often called a founder of THE ALFEE, is memorable for his slicked-back hair and sunglasses.
As you know, his presence is significant not only as a bassist but also as a bass vocalist.
In 1990, he even made his voice-acting debut in the anime “Hageshii na! Sakurai-kun” simply because they shared the same surname, showcasing his diverse talents.
For instruments, he mainly uses a classic 1960s Fender Jazz Bass.
It’s also said that he can play guitar and ukulele.
J.BoyMikuzuki Chiharu
He debuted in 1981 as a member of the Duncan Brothers Band and is now active not only with Bank Band but also as a session and studio bassist.
His participation in the live performances and recordings of many popular artists—including Shogo Hamada, Yosui Inoue, and Keisuke Kuwata—speaks to his abilities.
With precise, spot-on bass playing that enhances each song, he is a bassist trusted by numerous musicians.
AmenTakimoto Kazuki
A refreshing-style bassist who drew attention for appearing as a member of the backing band when Gen Hoshino was on television.
He performs behind a variety of professional musicians and plays everything from jazz to pop with finesse.
God of musicAoki Tomohito
As a studio musician, he has participated in the production of many artists’ tracks, and his dynamic, fusion-centered playing delivers a pleasantly smooth low end.
His effortless slap technique is also impressive, and his name often comes up as a bassist to aspire to.
Nakamaru’s beatbox vs. Maruyama’s bassMaruyama Ryuhei
A member of Kanjani Eight.
When the unit performs with instruments, he plays bass.
He has mentioned on TV that he avidly reads Bass Magazine, showing that his love for the bass is not just a designated role but a genuine passion.
His technique is well regarded among the members, and Hama Okamoto has also praised his playing highly.