[2026] Japan’s Leading Famous Drummers — From Veterans to Rising Stars
Drummers who underpin Japan’s music scene from the ground up.
They tend to be overshadowed by flashy frontmen, but in truth, they’re the indispensable heartbeat of any band.
From veterans who have stayed at the forefront for years to rising talents making their mark with unique styles, Japan is home to many world-class drummers.
In this article, we dive into the appeal of these Japanese drummers.
You’ll not only find the drummers you already know, but you may also discover new talents you haven’t encountered yet.
Be sure to read to the end!
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[2026] Japan’s Most Prominent Drummers: From Veterans to Rising Stars (31–40)
The Rose-Colored WorldKikuchi Satoshi
Many of you may not know Tetsu Kikuchi, but his drumming skills are exceptional.
It makes sense, since his mentor is Tomofumi Miyawaki “JOE” from 44MAGNUM.
Nero from the band Merry, who is also Kikuchi’s disciple, is insanely good as well.
Drum Mastery 2019 Shure Drum Contest feat. Senri KawaguchiKawaguchi Senri
Senri Kawaguchi, who has been playing drums since the age of five, began her path toward becoming a professional under Kozo Suganuma—one of Japan’s top drummers, known as the “King of Many Strokes.” Her drumming, rich in note density and clearly influenced by Suganuma, is captivating not only for its flurries of strokes but also for its delicate, highly varied phrasing.
Her skill is unquestioned—she won the runner-up prize in Rhythm & Drums Magazine’s drum contest.
While her ability to master a wide range of genres is part of her appeal, what leaves a lasting impression at her live shows is how much fun she clearly has on stage every time she plays.
In The MirrorHiguchi Munetaka
LOUDNESS is one of the Japanese rock bands that has had the greatest impact overseas, and their drummer was Munetaka Higuchi.
Influenced by Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham, he was committed to single bass drumming, skillfully using a single bass and floor tom to express phrases typically played on double bass.
He was particular about his equipment and was a drummer who pursued performance so rigorously that “research” became his catchphrase.
Just AwakeTomonori
Tomonori, the drummer for Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas, stands out even among Japan’s loud and screamo bands.
Given the band’s genre, their songs are incredibly fast-paced with intricate phrases that leave an impression, and he also lays down heavy grooves with style.
Another element that really catches the ear in Las Vegas’s drum sound is the use of bells and crotales, and the way he seamlessly weaves these into his phrases is a hallmark of his unique playing appeal!
MARIONETTETakahashi Makoto
The drummer for the legendary band BOØWY was Makoto Takahashi, known as “Mr.
Eight-Beat.” After BOØWY disbanded, he joined De-LAX, among other projects, and I’ve also seen him drumming for the solo activities of BOØWY’s members.
It’s something that makes BOØWY fans happy to know they’re still connected even now.
[2026] Japan’s Most Renowned Drummers: From Veterans to Rising Stars (41–50)
DISSENSIONmuratatamu
Tam Murata is a female drummer from Tokyo who is making waves primarily in rock and metal.
After graduating from a science and engineering university, she set out on a musical path and studied under the lineage of Masahiko Noguchi and Kozo Suganuma.
Her performance videos on YouTube have garnered significant attention, surpassing 9.7 million total views.
With multiple awards from drumming competitions, she is currently active as the drummer for the band NEMOPHILA.
In 2023, she successfully headlined a show at the Nippon Budokan and launched an online community called TAMZ GROOVE.
Her powerful performances, which contrast with her cute appearance, have made her a role model for young drummers.
Keep an eye on Tam Murata as she continues to elevate the standing of female drummers.
promenadeIgarashi Kota
Kota Igarashi was active in JUDY AND MARY.
“Sanpomichi,” for which Igarashi was in charge of composing, was selected as Judy and Mary’s 14th single.
With this, every member has had a song they wrote chosen as a single.