First live band performance: Popular recommended songs to cover for entertainment acts and showcases [2026]

Endless JourneyMr.Children

Mr.Children “Endless Journey” MUSIC VIDEO

A song that expresses, through music, a way of life that cherishes individuality, driven by the powerful message, “You don’t have to imitate anyone.” As one of Mr.Children’s signature works, it inspires the courage to overcome setbacks and doubts and to follow your own path.

Released in October 1998 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Naguru Onna,” it became a hit, selling 516,000 copies in its first week.

Despite running over seven minutes, its appeal lies in an intricate arrangement featuring nine key changes and a grand sound built on a compelling guitar riff.

Even those just starting out with band performance should be able to present it confidently on a school festival stage by playing a simple arrangement together with friends.

Heavy rotationAKB48

[MV full] Heavy Rotation / AKB48 [Official]

A passionate song that seems to call out, “Lovers, gather round!” It’s one of AKB48’s signature tracks, released in August 2010.

Lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto and music by Akira Yamasaki.

The music video, directed by Mika Ninagawa, drew attention for the members’ sexy looks.

The lyrics compare the feeling of being in love to “heavy rotation,” something anyone can relate to.

Paired with a catchy melody, it grabs listeners’ hearts and won’t let go.

Also recommended for first-time band performances: it has a simple structure and is a song you can enjoy together with the audience.

Only Lonely GloryBUMP OF CHICKEN

Only Lonely Glory BUMP (PV).mp4

How about a song that makes your heart race and makes you want to face forward? It’s a track by BUMP OF CHICKEN, the popular rock band from Chiba Prefecture.

It was released as a digital single in July 2013.

The lyrics, depicting loneliness and hope, are striking.

You’ll surely relate to the image of walking in search of light.

If you perform it as part of entertainment or a showcase, it’s sure to bring the whole venue together and get everyone excited.

It’s also recommended for listening on a summer night under the starry sky.

It will surely resonate in your heart.

The Night of Howling at the Red MoonGO!GO!7188

The Night of Howling at the Crimson Moon GO!GO!7188

It’s a song that paints a moving, heart-stirring scene! It’s included on GO!GO!7188’s 2004 album Ryūzetsuran (Agave).

As the striking title “Howling at the Red Moon” suggests, it expresses loneliness and a sense of loss through the powerful image of a red moon.

With surf rock–style guitar riffs and punk-infused elements, the sound should be approachable even for beginner bands.

Paired with the lyrics’ worldview, it’s sure to capture the audience’s hearts.

It’s a track guaranteed to fire up crowds in all kinds of settings, from live houses to school festivals.

Why not give it a try and perform it yourselves?

Under the moonlightMONGOL800

Wedding reception entertainment: band performance – MONGOL800 “Under the Moonlight”

It’s a gentle yet powerful love song bathed in moonlight.

One of MONGOL800’s signature tracks, it was included on their 2001 album “MESSAGE.” Despite the simple three-piece setup, its resonant melody and lyrics are compelling.

The words, which sing of a determination to protect a loved one, have struck a chord with many.

Released three years after the band formed, the song carries a youthful passion.

As a band from Okinawa, you might also sense a love for their homeland.

It’s a song you’ll want to play during special moments with someone important, like weddings or anniversaries.

Anarchy In The UKSEX PISTOLS

The Sex Pistols – Anarchy In The U.K (official video)

This song symbolizes the rebellious spirit of punk rock.

It’s the debut single by the Sex Pistols, released in November 1976.

Johnny Rotten’s provocative vocals and Steve Jones’s searing guitar sound leave a strong impression, vividly expressing frustration and anger toward society.

It might be a bit intense for a first band performance, but it’s perfect for anyone who wants to experience the soul of punk.

That said, it’s advisable to tone down the more extreme elements.

Why not interpret and perform this classic that left its mark on rock history in your own way?

You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “You and the Summer Festival”

This work is marked by its refreshing, catchy melody.

It’s a song by SHISHAMO, a three-piece girls’ band from Kanagawa Prefecture, released in July 2014.

Included on the album “SHISHAMO 2,” it was also used as a commercial song for Nakabayashi in 2019.

The lyrics, which capture the excitement of heading to a summer festival, have a fresh, snapshot-like quality that evokes a fleeting moment of youth.

It won first place for five consecutive weeks on FM802’s “OSAKAN HOT 100,” capturing the hearts of many listeners.

It’s a perfect track for young people on their way to making summer memories.

If you cover it with your band, crank up the volume and have fun!