A compilation of cool Japanese rock band songs. Recommended tracks for cover bands.
Whether you’ve just started playing an instrument or you’re in a band choosing songs for an upcoming live show, you might be thinking, “I want to play something cool!” In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of cool band songs.
We’ve gathered a variety of tracks—ones with cool vocals, ones with impressive instrumental performances, and more—so feel free to use this as a reference! Once you decide which song to play, all that’s left is to practice until you can perform it with style!
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Cool songs by Japanese rock bands. A roundup of recommended tracks for cover bands (71–80)
Way of DifferenceGLAY
Released in 2002 as GLAY’s 25th single, it’s a love song that depicts the story of a man and woman from their first meeting to their breakup.
It was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s romance reality show “Ainori,” and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
VenusTele
Tele is the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, who has been gaining attention for his literary lyrics and soulful, penetrating vocals.
The track Venus, released on September 6, 2023, leaves a lasting impression with its refreshing melody that carries a sense of weightlessness.
The simple rock ensemble uses few elements, yet each part stands out with a distinct presence.
With no fast passages, including the guitar solo, it’s a rock tune recommended for band musicians seeking something easy to play yet cool.
Dear, boyHump Back
Hump Back’s major-label debut powerfully sings of childhood dreams, hopes, and the frustration of seeing them falter.
Written as a cheering song filled with feelings for their high school bandmates, it has resonated with many.
Embracing the anxieties and doubts that come with chasing a dream, it gently encourages listeners to keep looking forward—a heartwarming message song.
Released as a single in June 2018, it was also used in a TV commercial for Shinken Zemi’s High School Course.
It reached No.
13 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and stayed on the charts for 21 weeks.
It’s a song that gives a strong push to those striving toward their dreams and to those who feel on the verge of losing sight of their goals.
Cool songs by Japanese rock bands: A roundup of recommended tracks for cover bands (81–90)
avoid noteMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE is extremely popular, especially among younger generations, but many of their songs are hard to cover without synths or backing tracks, so I imagine quite a few people give up.
In that regard, this track puts a relatively strong emphasis on a rock sound, and it feels like you could pull it off as a song even without a synth setup! That said, there are still plenty of highlights for the instruments—aggressive drum phrases, guitar tapping, and more.
It also carries their signature freshness, so if you perform it, it’s sure to earn you some respect!
RikaSIX LOUNGE
SIX LOUNGE is a three-piece rock band formed by high school classmates that continues to be based in their hometown of Oita Prefecture even after their major-label debut.
Their digital-only single Rika, released on August 2, 2023, also drew attention for being a re-recorded version of a track included on their indie-era album Shinonome.
The guitar strumming and bass lines riding over a relaxed shuffle beat let you feel a kind of rock coolness that isn’t just about flash.
Since there aren’t many technically difficult parts, it’s a number I’d recommend including in a live set as well.
HIT IN THE USABEAT CRUSADERS
It’s a rock tune packed with fiery passion.
Known as one of BEAT CRUSADERS’ signature songs, it drew attention after being used as the opening theme for the anime BECK.
It’s included on the album P.O.A.: Pop on Arrival, released in May 2005.
The lyrics, which sing of the protagonist’s determination and passion as they dream of success in America, are striking and match the energetic sound.
It’s also a great pick for cover bands, and it’s sure to electrify the crowd when performed live.
Perfect for those who want to captivate audiences with a high-energy performance.
Shangri-LaChatto Monchī
An emotionally moving song that delicately portrays complex feelings toward a lover and wavering self-esteem.
It uses a title meaning “utopia” as the lover’s name, carefully weaving the desire to keep loving while embracing the other’s vulnerabilities.
Its irregular 5/4 time signature creates a distinctive tension that expresses emotional fluctuation.
Released in November 2006 as Chatmonchy’s third single, the track is also included on the album Seimeiryoku.
It was chosen as the ending theme for the Fuji TV anime Hataraki Man and reached No.
6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
This is a song I’d recommend as a source of comfort for those who have experienced painful love or are searching for their true selves.