Makes you want to play it! Japanese rock with the coolest guitar riffs
For guitarists, the spotlight—the very face of a song—is the guitar riff.
Songs with riffs that symbolize the track really stick in your memory, and many classic hits in the rock scene come hand in hand with amazing riffs!
In this article, we’ve rounded up a bunch of songs with killer guitar riffs.
Just listening to cool riffs is enough to get your blood pumping, but if you’re a guitarist, why not pick up your guitar and try playing along?
There aren’t just single-note phrases—there are riffs built around power chords and octaves too, so try tackling all kinds of riffs from different songs!
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Makes you want to play! Japanese rock with insanely cool guitar riffs (41–50)
SmokyChar
From the dawn of rock music in Japan during the 1970s, Char distinguished himself as a guitarist while still in his teens.
His contributions to the development of Japanese rock guitar are immeasurable, and his signature song is Smoky.
The off-beat stabs that appear right from the intro—and are deployed effectively throughout the track—serve as the song’s defining riff.
Featured on his 1976 solo album Char, it has long been a centerpiece of his live performances.
RUSSIAN ROULETTEHotei Tomoyasu
With its energetic guitar riff that shakes the soul, “RUSSIAN ROULETTE” is a track that leaves an overwhelming impact on listeners.
The technical playing crackles with a firework-like intensity while interlocking with exquisite precision—its sonic artistry is simply breathtaking.
Even as years have passed since its release, it hasn’t faded in the slightest, remaining etched in memory as a Japanese classic distinguished by its standout guitar riff.
There’s no doubt you’ll fully experience the magic of that riff.
CRAZY NIGHTSLOUDNESS
LOUDNESS is a Japanese hard rock band that achieved global success.
This work is sung entirely in English, and both the vocals and the performances are on par with hard rock bands from abroad.
The song was included on the 1985 album “THUNDER IN THE EAST.” With this album, they made a full-fledged breakthrough in the United States.
In the night sky after the rainRC sakuseshon
RC Succession, the legendary band that the late Kiyoshiro Imawano—who sadly passed away in 2009—was a member of.
This work is one of their early hit songs, released in 1980.
The opening guitar riff still sounds fresh even today.
The image of Kiyoshiro in full makeup brings back memories.
Sparkle DancerFurederikku
A rock band renowned for their killer guitar riffs, Frederic delivers a track that perfectly embodies their musical identity.
An energetic guitar riff rides over a rolling rhythm, making it a listen you’ll never get tired of.
The cool guitar phrase in the intro is especially striking—you’ll definitely want to try playing it yourself.
Plus, Kenji Mihara’s rhythmic vocals pair perfectly with the soaring chorus melody, grabbing listeners from the first moment.
The song was used in a boat racing commercial in January 2023 and was later included on their mini-album “Yūyūkan’ei Kaiyūroku.” It’s an addictive, live-ready anthem that’s sure to get you pumped.
Myself ROCKONE OK ROCK
“You don’t need to hesitate”—the courage to charge straight toward your dreams rides the sound and hits you directly in this cool rock number by ONE OK ROCK.
Released as a single in 2010, it also drew attention as the lead track for the album “Niche Syndrome.” A guitar riff that stretches and swells like a single line drives the entire song.
Listen to your inner voice and believe, with strength and clarity, that this is your path in life.
The lyrics overflow with a brave spirit that breaks through the maze-like twists of life.
For anyone standing still right now, it’s sure to become a powerful anthem that gives you a push forward.
garnetaoie us fear
A track with an addictive, lyrical guitar riff.
Its dark, emotional sound leaves a strong impression and etches itself deeply into the listener’s heart.
Featured on aoie us fear’s mini-album “Sequence_2,” this song skillfully conveys anxieties and inner conflict about the future, with vocalist Nagisa’s voice resonating deeply.
It’s known as a staple at their live shows and a fan favorite, offering a full taste of the band’s worldview.
Highly recommended for those grappling with inner turmoil or seeking rock that truly resonates.