RAG MusicFriendship Songs
A lovely friendship song

A roundup of Japanese rock friendship songs: bands’ tunes about friends

There are lots of songs about friendship in the Japanese music scene, aren’t there?

Among them, can you think of any friendship songs by Japanese rock bands?

In this article, we’ll showcase a wide selection of friendship-themed songs released by bands over the years!

It’s perfect not only for those looking for music to listen to day-to-day, but also for anyone searching for songs to perform at a school festival or graduation live show.

As you listen, pay attention not only to the lyrics but also to the performance aspects of each track, and find your favorite song!

A roundup of Japanese rock friendship songs: Bands’ tunes about friends (81–90)

Let’s play despairHaruka to Miyuki

Haruka to Miyuki “Despair Pretend” (Official Music Video)
Let's play despairHaruka to Miyuki

Harukatomiyuki’s “Zetsubou Gokko” wafts in from the very first notes with a sound that feels nostalgic yet fresh.

The irresistibly catchy melody draws you in, and her voice, overflowing with charm, is breathtaking.

It’s a song that can bring you to tears, offering a complex perspective on friendships.

The world goes crazy for your smile.Bando ja nai mon!

Band ja Naimon! / The World Goes Crazy with Your Smile
The world goes crazy for your smile.Bando ja nai mon!

Among fans, the idol-style girls’ rock band Band Ja Naimon! is affectionately called “Banmon.” Their cute, idol-like music videos are popular with fans.

Since Misako, the drummer of the rock band Shinsei Kamattechan, wrote some of their lyrics, the rock pedigree definitely runs through their music.

Foerver FriendsD-51

Included on the 2008 album “BEST OF D-51.” A pop duo from Okinawa Prefecture who began activities in 2003.

As you listen to the vocals singing lyrics addressed to someone they’re parting from—set to a mid-tempo, lively rhythm and a melody that feels like walking with a light step—it really stirs something inside.

ReunionRADWIMPS

Included on the 2013 album “X to O to Tsumi to.” A four-piece rock band from Yokohama formed in 2001.

This is the ultimate friendship song in RADWIMPS’ history.

The vocalist’s calm, matter-of-fact delivery—riding a mid-tempo, gently flowing rhythm and a melody with a slightly offbeat feel—somehow seeps deep into the heart.

A Song for a FriendSonar Pocket

Sonar Pocket “Forever the Two of Us” [MV Short]
A Song for a FriendSonar Pocket

Included on the 2009 album “Sonapoke-ism (1) ~The Shape of Happiness~.” A three-member music group from Nagoya formed in 2005.

The chorus ensemble, sung over an up-tempo rhythm that lays down a clear rock beat and a pop, catchy melody, strikes just the right balance and truly reaches the heart.

together; along with; bothWANIMA

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
together; along with; bothWANIMA

Included on the 2016 single “JUICE UP!!”.

A three-piece rock band from Kumamoto Prefecture formed in 2010.

The uptempo, fast-paced, rock band-style beat and the pop, catchy melody pair well, resulting in a very easy-to-listen-to track.

A Collection of Japanese Rock Friendship Songs: Bands’ Songs About Friends (91–100)

FriendNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

COVER Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi/Friend
FriendNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Included on the 1996 album “Kazoku” (Family).

Theme song for the drama “Fire Force.” Born in 1956.

A singer-songwriter from Kagoshima Prefecture.

Released as the first work following a comeback after an arrest for violating the Cannabis Control Act.

The slow ballad melody combined with vocals that speak to a friend makes for an achingly heartfelt experience.