Japanese Rock Music Popularity Rankings [2026]

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION15rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite (2016 ver.)”

This song is a powerful cry of the soul, vividly portraying self-denial and rebirth.

The world of sound woven by its heavy guitar riffs and emotional vocals brims with a liberating sense of releasing one’s inner feelings.

The will to overcome conflict and suffering and be reborn into a new self resonates alongside the driving, fast-paced sound.

Released in August 2004, the track was included on the album “Sol-fa” and was also used as the opening theme for season 4 of the anime Fullmetal Alchemist.

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s message-driven rock sound gently encourages those searching for their own path and those striving to move forward amid uncertainty.

Biting the second handzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.16rank/position

ZUTOMAYO - “Bite the Second Hand” Music Video (Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni. – Byoushin wo Kamu)

This piece features an incredibly cool bass phrase that truly hits the core of the song.

It’s a track by the music unit ZUTOMAYO, whose popularity took off through video platforms, and it was released digitally in 2018.

The rhythmic, sharp band sound is colored by beautiful piano tones, resulting in a richly layered finish.

Slap technique is used effectively—restrained in sections like the first verse, but coming to the forefront following the solo part.

It’s a stylish bass line that both supports the song and shines with flair.

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Araki Jakkan

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Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK17rank/position

ONE OK ROCK: Wasted Nights [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

The majestic melody is truly moving.

This song by ONE OK ROCK, a rock band active internationally, is included on their ninth album, Eye of the Storm, released in 2019.

It was chosen as the theme song for the live-action film adaptation of the manga Kingdom.

The rhythm, which feels like taking steady steps forward, combines with vocalist Taka’s soaring voice and a sound palette rich in diverse timbres to create a one-of-a-kind world.

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Araki Jakkan

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HONEYL’Arc〜en〜Ciel18rank/position

L’Arc～en～Ciel「HONEY」-Music Clip-

L’Arc~en~Ciel is a rock band whose unique worldview and one-of-a-kind sound have won them great popularity.

It’s impossible to talk about the music scene of the ’90s without mentioning them.

Their 1998 release HONEY was used as the ending theme for the TV show Super Soccer.

With a full-band rock sound, it’s one of their signature songs.

The glossy vocals and lyrics are captivating, and the catchy, pop-friendly melody is also highly recommended.

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mutō

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sparklergagaga supi19rank/position

Gagaga SP 'Sparklers'

This song is known as a landmark of “youth punk.” Its lyrics, which overlay the bittersweet feelings of a summer-night romance with the fleeting spark of a senko hanabi firework, resonate deeply.

Thoughts of time gone by and lost love are woven into a gentle melody.

Released in August 2001, the track has long been cherished as one of Gagaga SP’s signature works.

In 2023, it was performed live on TBS’s “Love it!” bringing renewed attention to its charm.

It’s a song that stirs nostalgia and longing when listened to at summer’s end, and one that adults reminiscing about their youth should definitely hear.

deep redMy Hair is Bad20rank/position

My Hair is Bad – Deep Crimson (Official Music Video)

A rock tune I’d love you to listen to at the end of spring: “Makka” by the rock band My Hair is Bad, released in 2015.

From the very first line, you’re drawn into their signature world of realistic lyrics.

The intense vocals over the fierce sound make a striking impression, heightening the song’s story with a bittersweet edge.

I imagine many listeners will find their feelings somehow linked to it.

It’s a rock track that packs in the temperature and emotions of the changing seasons to the fullest.

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Murakami Shinpei

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RIVER10-FEET21rank/position

10-FEET「RIVER」Music Video

This is a classic 10-FEET song that powerfully expresses the fiery feelings of youth.

Released in 2002, its lyrics—likening the flow of life to a river—resonated with many listeners.

Inspired by the Kamo River in the band’s hometown of Kyoto, the track leaves a deep impression on those who hear it.

Included on the 2004 album REALIFE, it brilliantly fuses a mixture rock foundation with Japanese lyrics.

It’s a song that can give you courage when you want to look back on nostalgic memories of your youth or take a new step forward.