Lovely performance

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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

For your first performance in front of an audience, it’s natural to feel nervous, and above all, to agonize over the setlist.

For beginner bands, I’ve picked out well-known bands and highly recognizable songs that are easy to play even for a first performance and are likely to get everyone excited.

Consider the age range of the people who’ll be there, and choose some good tracks from this list.

I hope you find a wonderful, perfect song worthy of your debut performance—and I wish you the best of luck!

First-time band performance: Popular recommended songs to cover for entertainment/acts [2026] (91–100)

Shangri-LaChatto Monchī

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video

Shangri-LaChatto Monchī

This is Chatmonchy’s major-label debut single, memorable for its poppy, catchy melody.

It starts from the everyday mishap of dropping a cell phone and goes on to sing about the importance of human connection.

Released in November 2006, it was chosen as the ending theme for the Fuji TV anime “Hataraki Man.” It became the band’s first big hit, marking their first Top 10 entry on the Oricon singles chart.

Despite its simple structure, the distinctive bounce of the rhythm makes it perfect for a first band performance.

It’s also great as entertainment at parties or events.

If you play it with joy, it’s sure to bring the whole venue together into one.

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Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents – Ultramarine Weather

Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen

A deeply resonant song that portrays aching emotions and urban loneliness.

Released by Tokyo Jihen in November 2004, this masterpiece fuses Shiina Ringo’s poetic lyrics with the band’s distinctive sound.

It delicately captures themes such as heartbreak, loss of self, and adapting to society.

A staple at live shows and concerts, it was also performed at the NHK Hall concert in July 2020.

Marked by a breezy rhythm and a memorable bassline, it’s perfect for a first performance in front of an audience.

With lyrics that strike a chord and an easy-to-remember melody, it’s sure to draw listeners in.

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Real voiceayaka

Ayaka – Real Voice

Real voiceayaka

This is a highly recommended song for an all-girl band to make a cool, striking impression! It kicks off with an up-tempo vocal intro that instantly grabs the audience and gets everyone singing along with great energy.

Just like Ayaka’s image, it combines a crisp, cool edge while keeping a touch of cuteness.

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WINDING LOADAyaka × Kobukuro

Kobukuro – WINDING ROAD (Ayaka × Kobukuro)

WINDING LOADAyaka × Kobukuro

If two or three confident singers can handle harmonies and call-and-response well, this song is guaranteed to get everyone excited.

At the beginning of the song, you don’t need much BGM; a simple setup with just piano and percussion should still create a rich, full sound.

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LIFE: Beyond What’s Right in Front of YouKanjani∞

Kanjani Eight LIFE ~Beyond What's in Front of Me~ Guitar

LIFE: Beyond What's Right in Front of YouKanjani∞

Kanjani∞ are often described, in a good way, as a group with a unique Kansai vibe that doesn’t feel very “Johnny’s-like,” and their band numbers are incredibly cool.

The lyrics express a fiery determination that says, “We can still do this!”

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The world calls it love.Sambomasutā

Sambomaster / The World Calls It Love MUSIC VIDEO

The world calls it love.Sambomasutā

When it comes to youthful love songs, this is the one! It’s the rocking love song that catapulted Sambomaster’s name into the spotlight.

Its powerful melody blows away pent-up stress and the gloom from unfair moments, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at school festivals and the like.

Just be warned: the vocals go pretty high, so take care when singing it.

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Millennium MedalZa Hairouzu

[Official] The High-Lows “Sennen Medal” [9th Single (1998/4/29)] THE HIGH-LOWS / Sennen Medal

Millennium MedalZa Hairouzu

It’s a song that vows straightforward, unreserved love.

While it’s intended specifically for wedding-related celebrations like the ceremony or an engagement meeting, its simple yet heartfelt lyrics are perfect for declaring your resolve and commitment.

It’s the ultimate love song from a man to a woman.

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