Japanese Rock Music Popularity Rankings [2026]

RickenbackerRīgaru Rirī78rank/position

Legal Lily – “Rickenbacker” Music Video

This work portrays a confrontation with the power of music, infused with sentiments that pierce the heart.

The lyrics, woven by 17-year-old Honoka Takahashi, express a sincere attitude toward music and its dual nature—capable at times of sustaining people and at other times of driving them to the brink.

The sound, incorporating elements of alternative rock and shoegaze, together with a clear, translucent vocal, creates a unique sonic world.

Included on the mini-album “the Post,” released in October 2016, it was later selected in 2019 as a tie-in song for the stage production “365 Days, 36.5°C.” This track stands beside everyone who loves music, teaching the importance of pursuing a music that is truly your own.

90’S TOKYO BOYSOKAMOTO’S79rank/position

OKAMOTO’S 『90’S TOKYO BOYS』MUSIC VIDEO

OKAMOTO’S captivate with a groovy sound built on razor-sharp guitar riffs reminiscent of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and vocals that blend elements of Black music.

Their lyrics—vivid snapshots of Tokyo’s cityscape and honest portrayals of the vague anxieties and sense of stagnation felt in one’s twenties—resonate with many listeners.

Released in August 2017 as the opening track of the album “NO MORE MUSIC,” this song was also featured in adidas’s CAMPUS Series campaign.

In 2022, they held “90’S TOKYO BOYS IN HALL SPECIAL ~After School~” at NHK Hall, delivering a grand performance with members of Suchmos as guest musicians.

It’s a recommended track for anyone craving a spark in their everyday life or looking for the perfect soundtrack to a stroll through the city.

MonolithCROSSFAITH80rank/position

Crossfaith – Monolith

Included on the album Zion EP.

Its hard-hitting, metalcore-style sound design is so sharp that anyone unfamiliar with them would easily mistake it for an overseas band at first listen.

With the rise of bands like coldrain bringing the “loud rock” genre gradually into the public eye, you could say this band pushed it decisively in a more hardcore direction.

CHERRYBLOSSOM10-FEET81rank/position

CHERRY BLOSSOM

10-FEET is a three-piece rock band that has hosted the large-scale Kyoto festival “Kyoto Daisakusen” since 2007 and has gained popularity for a sound that embraces a wide range of genres.

CHERRY BLOSSOM, included on their first album springman, kicks off with the chorus—an arrangement that instantly cranks up the energy.

Its straightforward message, delivered over a loud, high-velocity ensemble, is quintessentially them.

With its rapidly shifting structure that becomes addictive, it’s a rock tune you’ll want to listen to in spring.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Cinderella BoySaucy Dog82rank/position

Saucy Dog “Cinderella Boy” Music Video <5th Mini Album “Lazy Sunday” Released on 2021.8.25>

This song is included on Saucy Dog’s mini-album “Lazy Sunday,” which weaves a heart-wrenching love story that tightens the chest.

It portrays a bittersweet, inescapable dependence, even while suffering the agony of being torn apart by the other person’s lies.

Coupled with a melodious rock sound and written from a female perspective, it leaves a lingering aftertaste where sorrow and affection intermingle.

Released in August 2021, it also drew attention for its animation-style music video by Miku Masuda.

In 2022, the band appeared on Music Station.

It’s a recommended track for those struggling with complex feelings toward someone they love or seeking empathy in the subtleties of human relationships.

Teenager ForeverKing Gnu83rank/position

King Gnu – Teenager Forever

As the title suggests, it’s a song about never forgetting the feelings of youth and continuing to live true to yourself.

It’s by King Gnu, the band also known for “Hakujitsu,” and is included on their 2020 album CEREMONY.

Its use in a Sony wireless headphones commercial became a hot topic.

The part I especially want you to hear is the final guitar solo—it elevates the mood that’s been building up to that point and makes it even better.

It’s a wonderful track you’ll want to listen to over and over again.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

From Me to Youflumpool84rank/position

flumpool “Kimi ni Todoke” Music Video

A song that drew attention after being chosen as the theme for the film “Kimi ni Todoke.” Its lyrics vividly capture the fresh, bittersweet romance of youth.

It’s a number I especially recommend to those who don’t usually listen to rock.

The driving band performance and classic melodic lines will get your body swaying.

Many listeners will find solace in Takahiro Yamamura’s dazzling, cool vocals.

Whether you’re in love right now or not, this love song is sure to make your heart skip a beat.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem