RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

Japanese rock/pop bands recommended for men

There are plenty of bands I’d recommend to men, ranging from rugged and gritty to stylish and polished.There are countless Japanese bands out there.I’d like to introduce many of these recommended bands.You might discover music you’ve never heard before.

Recommended Japanese bands for men (1–10)

backlightBILLY BOO

BILLY BOO – Backlight [Official Music Video]
backlightBILLY BOO

BILLY BOO is a band that builds on Black music like hip-hop and R&B while unfolding a genreless sound.

Hailing from Sendai, they began activities in May 2024, and one of their biggest draws is vocalist KAZUKI UJIIE’s heartrending, unforgettable voice that sticks with you after just one listen.

Released in the fall of 2024, “Lens” garnered buzz as background music for a dating reality show.

Furthermore, “Rhapsody” was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime “Nazotoki wa Dinner no Ato de” and secured power-play rotation on 57 radio stations nationwide, showing their momentum is only growing.

Effortlessly transcending genre boundaries, their music is perfect for listeners seeking something fresh and stimulating.

Monkey studentHanumān

Hanuman: “The Monkey Student”
Monkey studentHanumān

This band, led by Ryoichi Yamada—currently active in Buzz Mothers—carried on NUMBER GIRL’s sound while forging its own path with distinctive, literary lyrics, leaving a profound impact on later generations of bands.

Despite being a three-piece, their tightly honed, gapless sound is a major draw.

BABY BLUEFISHMANS

This band, which forges its own path, is a rock band whose songs are compelling for their generous incorporation of reggae and dub sounds.

The vocalist, Shinji Sato, is also distinctive for his piercing, heart-striking voice and lyrics that feel as though they might drift off somewhere.

Recommended Japanese bands for men (11–20)

GOLDPEOPLE 1

PEOPLE 1 “GOLD” (Official Video)
GOLDPEOPLE 1

PEOPLE 1 is a band formed in 2019 by three members who met in a university cover band club.

Their appeal lies in their wide musical range, from songs with the sound of an orthodox three-piece rock band to catchy tracks with a distinctive worldview.

They made their major debut with the digital-only single “DOGLAND” released in 2022, which was used as an ending theme for the anime Chainsaw Man.

In addition, their 2023 release “GOLD” was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage.

NEKO(Remix) feat.Ryohu/MUDOKAMOTO’S

OKAMOTO’S 『NEKO(Remix) feat.Ryohu/MUD』MUSIC VIDEO
NEKO(Remix) feat.Ryohu/MUDOKAMOTO'S

OKAMOTO’S is a rock band captivating fans with a sound that explodes with ’90s-born sensibilities.

The four members, who formed the band as middle school classmates, freely blend a wide range of styles—rooted in rock but spanning funk, garage, and more.

They made their major debut in 2010, and it’s well known that in March of the same year they performed at SXSW in the U.S., becoming the youngest Japanese male act to do so.

Their song chosen as the opening theme for a popular anime became a catalyst that rapidly spread their groovy appeal.

Their curiosity knows no bounds, as seen in narrative-driven works like the album “OPERA.” If you’re after a muscular band sound and grooves that make you want to dance, you should experience them at least once!

liquid rainbowSuiseiNoboAz

Debuting under the production of Shutoku Mukai of NUMBER GIRL and ZAZEN BOYS, this band has continued to create songs along their own unique path while drawing influence from older rock bands like bloodthirsty butchers.

Another hallmark is the guitar-vocalist’s intricate, high-activity guitar work performed while singing.

AMBITIOUSHOUND DOG

AMBITIOUS (Single Version) HOUND DOG
AMBITIOUSHOUND DOG

With vocals that feel like a cry from the soul and an energetic stage presence, HOUND DOG set listeners’ hearts ablaze! Formed in 1976 around Kohei Otomo, they’re an indispensable band in the history of Japan’s rock scene.

While rooted in rock, their music spans a wide range, from heartfelt pop to moving ballads.

They debuted in 1980 with the single “Arashi no Kinyobi,” and in 1985 they catapulted to nationwide fame with their signature song “ff (Fortissimo),” which was featured in a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial.

Their true essence is in their live performances! In 1989, they even set a legend by playing 15 consecutive days at Nippon Budokan.

When you need the courage to face adversity, their music will surely be a powerful source of support.