[Rock Artists] A roundup of popular Japanese bands

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

“Who are the artists active in the rock scene?” If you’re a listener who doesn’t usually listen to rock, you might be wondering this.

In Japan’s rock scene, countless bands are active today, and new songs are born every day.

In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of rock bands that are making waves in the domestic music scene all at once! For those just starting to listen to Japanese rock, we picked bands based on the idea of “the ones you should listen to first.” From up-and-coming groups to legendary bands, we’ll cover a broad spectrum—so start by checking out songs from the bands featured here!

[Rock Artists] Summary of Popular Japanese Bands (51–60)

Anthem of CounterattackRyukku to soine gohan

Back-to-Back with Ruck / Anthem of Retaliation [Music Video]

Anthem of CounterattackRyukku to soine gohan

Ryukku to Soinē Gohan, also known by the nickname “Ryukuso,” are a guitar rock band.

The turning point that made them known to many rock listeners was winning RO JACK, the audition that awards a performance slot at ROCK IN JAPAN in 2019.

Still in high school at the time, they delivered an impressive performance on the big stage and quickly drew widespread attention.

Their songs are packed with highlights: catchy guitar riffs, superb song structures that make you want to replay them, and finely crafted arrangements for each instrument.

They’re a talented rock band that not only appeals to younger listeners but is one adults should definitely check out as well.

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TokyoTetsukaze Tōkyō

Tetsukaze Tokyo “Tokyo” Official Music Video

TokyoTetsukaze Tōkyō

Tetsukaze Tokyo is a rock band based in Sendai.

Formed in 2018, they drew attention when the music video for Gaitō to Apāto, released during their senior year of high school, became a hit, along with tracks uploaded to the music distribution site Eggs.

Their music features a heavy rock sound infused with warm guitar arpeggios, often evoking scenes that are wistful and emotional.

They are a band that delivers driving rock numbers in live performances, offering songs that resonate with the anxieties and loneliness of youth.

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced some recommended artists for those who are just starting to get into Japanese rock.

We picked a wide range—from young bands currently gaining popularity to legendary groups from the ’90s—so you’ve likely heard songs in a variety of styles.

If any artist here caught your attention, feel free to dive deeper into their catalog, or explore bands in similar genres.

I’d be thrilled if this article becomes your gateway to falling in love with Japanese rock.