![[Rock Artists] A roundup of popular Japanese bands](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/0fTxmlSYIrA/maxresdefault.webp)
“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!
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[Rock Artists] Summary of Popular Japanese Bands (1–10)
Trace OrionUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
When it comes to bands that groove with advanced techniques like tight unison licks and phrases, UNISON SQUARE GARDEN comes to mind.
Formed in 2004, they’re a three-piece rock band known for delivering a rich, powerful live sound that you wouldn’t expect from just three members.
It’s said their name was inspired by the American entertainment venue Madison Square Garden.
They have signature songs like Orion o Nazoru, the opening theme for the TV anime TIGER & BUNNY, and Sugar Song and Bitter Step, the ending theme for the UHF anime Blood Blockade Battlefront.
Be sure to give them a listen!
Killer tuneToukyou Jihen
Tokyo Jihen, the superband fronted by Ringo Sheena, is also one you absolutely must listen to in the Japanese rock scene.
Beyond each member’s exceptional musicianship, their songs are characterized by a catchy, comfortable feel with an added hook—an offbeat twist that captivates many listeners.
With Tokyo Jihen, it’s best to start with their bright, catchy tracks.
If you find yourself drawn to their charm, dive deeper into their more complex, “deep cut” songs.
Linda LindaTHE BLUE HEARTS
When it comes to punk rock bands that Japan is proud of, it has to be THE BLUE HEARTS.
They made their major debut in 1987 and released many hit songs like “Linda Linda,” “TRAIN-TRAIN,” and “Jounetsu no Bara” (Rose of Passion).
They also have plenty of deeply moving classics with strong messages, such as the 1989 single “Aozora” (Blue Sky).
The band’s performances feature a quintessentially punk, very simple sound, with a coolness that can only be expressed with minimal notes.
Even more than 20 years after their breakup, they continue to influence many artists—a legendary rock band.
Walk the wastelandASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
Since the 2000s, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION—better known as Ajikan—has been drawing major attention not only in the domestic rock scene but also in J-pop.
Their appeal lies in Masafumi Goto’s rich, resonant vocals and the high level of musicianship from each member.
Ajikan is also known for numerous tie-in songs with anime, so chances are you’ve heard several of their tracks without even realizing it.
But if you take the time to listen to a song all the way through again, you’re sure to be captivated by lyrical nuances and melodic charms you may have missed before.
Take this opportunity to give them a careful listen.
AcaciaBUMP OF CHICKEN
BUMP OF CHICKEN is an indispensable presence that represents the Japanese rock scene since the 2000s.
They’ve released many classic songs over the years, and even people who aren’t familiar with rock bands have probably heard a few of them.
One of the charms of their music is the unique worldview in the lyrics written by the vocalist, Motoo Fujiwara.
His songwriting is striking in the way it conjures up a story right before your eyes, and taking time to savor that lyrical world, ponder the meanings, and form your own interpretation is one of the ways to enjoy their songs.
Of course, the vocal melodies and the compositions themselves are also very pleasant to listen to, so be sure to take your time and explore a variety of their tracks.
EmotionsMAN WITH A MISSION
From their appearance alone they make a huge impact, and their musicality is overwhelming too! They’re MAN WITH A MISSION, a rock band that’s also active overseas.
They kicked off their career in 2010.
Their most distinctive feature, of course, is those faces—the wolf masks! Their concept is that they’re the ultimate life forms born from mad science, making them a band shrouded in a certain mystery.
But the works they unleash are one of a kind! Their powerful sound, fusing loud rock and EDM, will fill your ears and your head.
Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK
ONE OK ROCK has now become a rock band that’s hugely popular not only in Japan but overseas as well.
What’s especially noteworthy is vocalist Taka’s overwhelming singing ability—his voice alone is so powerful that you’ll find yourself thinking, “Can a voice really be this captivating?” and be taken aback as you listen.
On top of that, their songwriting pulls you deeper and deeper into each track’s world, and their expansive, large-scale sound feels as if you’re listening to an international band—truly overwhelming.
If you haven’t listened to much of their music yet, start with just one song and take it in carefully from beginning to end.
By the time it’s over, you’ll definitely be eager to hear the next one.