Indie hit song rankings
Major tracks are great, but as music fans, I think many of us also have that urge to discover hidden gems or cool bands that haven’t gotten much attention yet.
Sometimes we grow attached to those under-the-radar aspects, and it makes us want to support them even more as fans.
In this article, we’ll research popular artists in the indie scene who haven’t made a major-label debut and introduce them in a ranking format.
They’re not necessarily obscure songs, but even seasoned music lovers might find tracks they haven’t heard yet.
Be sure to check it out at least once!
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Indie Popular Song Rankings (1–10)
Elephunk GardenErefanku niwa8rank/position
It’s written as “エレファンク庭” but read as “Elefunk Garden.” Nickname: “Erega.” They’re a buzzworthy idol group produced by lyricist zopp, known for hit songs like “Seishun Amigo” and “Daite Señorita.” If you’re sharp, you might have guessed it: the name “Erega” comes from a coined word mixing “electric” and “funk.” Their track “Elefunk Garden,” which is almost like the group’s own introduction song, is a high-energy disco tune brimming with funk and soul.
The lyrics have a “let’s forget the bad stuff for now and just have fun” vibe that’s sure to lift your spirits! Other recommended songs include “Jimoto LOVE” and “Tatsu Tori Ato o Nigosé.”
Pa Pi Pu Pe POP!Appare!9rank/position
Formed in 2016 as “Amehare! Harajuku” and renamed Appare! in July 2020, they are a seven-member music group.
Centered on energetic, catchy pop, they express Harajuku’s kawaii aesthetic through music.
They’ve secured a major-label debut with Victor Entertainment and continue to steadily climb the ranks.
They’ve generated major buzz on social media, boasting strong popularity on digital platforms, with over 270 million views on TikTok.
In January 2025, they successfully held a solo concert at Nippon Budokan and also achieved a Guinness World Record for the number of teru teru bozu.
Collaborations with accomplished artists like Maguro Taniguchi of KANA-BOON and Tamaya 2060% of Wienners are another highlight, earning them support from broader music fans beyond the idol scene.
Back To The FunkBRADIO10rank/position
A track included on the January 2017 release, Freedom.
It’s a perfect song for getting to know BRADIO, exuding a truly black funk vibe.
You can enjoy an authentic funk sound that hardly seems like it comes from a domestic band.
It’s a tune that should appeal to a wide range of ages.
Indie Popular Songs Ranking (11–20)
Be Bold!BRADIO11rank/position
A three-piece rock band that calls themselves “extraordinary stylists.” Formed in 2010, they made their CD debut in 2013 with the mini-album DIAMOND POPS.
Their appeal lies in a sound infused with elements of funk, soul, and R&B, paired with highly entertaining performances.
In 2015, they were featured as an anime opening theme and quickly garnered attention.
Their hallmark is a groovy, drum’n’bass-driven sound and the distinctive voice of vocalist Takaaki Shingyoji.
They’ve also performed at major festivals like ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL, earning high praise for the intensity of their live shows.
A recommended band for anyone looking to add color to their everyday life.
FrisbeeBRADIO12rank/position
A three-piece rock band, BRADIO, whose name is a coined word formed from the initials of an English phrase meaning “Add images of wonderful time and space to the everyday world to bring positive change.” This track was used as the opening theme for the music show Buzz Rhythm 02 and is included on the album THE VOLCANOES – EP -.
The arrangement shows influences from Black music, and the single-note guitar cutting—occasionally intertwined with a wah—sounds cool.
It’s a funky number with a comfortable backing that supports the soulful vocals, letting you enjoy a stylish guitar sound.
Golden LiarBRADIO13rank/position
BRADIO is a band that’s drawing attention for their look, as if the classic funk scene—passed down continuously since the era of James Brown—has been revived.
Their signature track “Golden Liar” is captivating not so much as straight-up orthodox funk, but as a sound that elevates funk grooves into Japanese rock.
The music video quality is outstanding, and there aren’t many bands you can enjoy so much beyond just the music itself.
LA PA PARADISEBRADIO14rank/position
A top pick you’ll want to play on a Saturday night: “LA PA PARADISE.” It’s the first major-label single released in 2017 by BRADIO, a rock band rooted in Black music.
With Takaaki Shingyoji’s refreshing falsetto and a smooth, funky groove, it’s the perfect party-night track.
It also has a mellow vibe, making it great for setting a romantic mood with your partner.
It’ll put you in such a good mood you’ll want to start dancing!
