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 Band Performance: Popular Recommended Songs to Cover for Entertainment/Acts [2026] (21–30)

Re:makeONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK 「Re:make」

Re:makeONE OK ROCK

Among ONE OK ROCK’s songs, this one is relatively simple and easy to cover.

Its structure is straightforward and it has a great groove, making it an ideal choice for a cover.

The overall quality depends heavily on the vocalist’s skill, so it’s a perfect chance for the singer to show what they can do.

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March 9Remioromen

March 9th / Remioromen (band cover)

March 9Remioromen

It’s a heartwarming ballad that gently moves the soul.

Originally written by Remioromen to celebrate a friend’s wedding, the song has since become widely cherished as a graduation anthem.

Released as a single on March 9, 2004, it was also included on the album “ether.” It was featured as the ending theme for the TBS information program “Pooh!” and used in Nestlé’s “KitKat” commercials.

With a relaxed tempo and simple guitar chord strumming, it’s easy even for beginner bands to perform, making it a great choice for a first live-house stage or as entertainment at a wedding.

Its empathetic lyrics and memorable melody are sure to bring the entire venue together as one.

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astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

This is one song I absolutely want you to perform at the school festival! Just seeing you play it with all your heart looks cool on its own and draws everyone’s eyes.

It starts in a low key, but when the chorus hits and it really ramps up, everyone’s excitement will go into MAX overdrive!

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MissingELLEGARDEN

ELLEGARDEN「Missing」Music Video

MissingELLEGARDEN

Released in 2007, “Missing” can rightly be called one of ELLEGARDEN’s signature songs.

With its easy-to-listen-to melody and a band sound that’s both poignant and intense, it’s beloved by listeners across many age groups.

The tempo is on the slower side, making it an accessible song for beginner bands to start with.

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I’ll walk home.Saitō Kazuyoshi

Let’s Walk Home (ROCK’N ROLL Recording Session 2023)

I'll walk home.Saitō Kazuyoshi

This is a single by Kazuyoshi Saito released in June 1994, a rock ’n’ roll number characterized by a lively shuffle beat and a catchy melody.

Chosen as the opening theme for “Ponkickies,” it gained nationwide popularity.

Despite its bright, poppy feel, it carries a passionate message about walking your own path on your own two feet.

It was featured in a Suntory commercial in 2001 and a Suzuki Lapin commercial in 2015, making it a timeless classic loved across generations.

With a comfortable tempo and a natural call-and-response structure, it’s a safe choice to perform at gatherings with a wide range of ages.

The guitar phrases are memorable, too, making it rewarding to play!

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Love SongGO!GO!7188

Koi no Uta / GO!GO!7188

Love SongGO!GO!7188

It’s a classic by GO!GO!7188.

Not only the guitar, but the heavily distorted bass gives it a gritty, cool rock-ballad vibe.

Built on a canon progression with a slow tempo, it’s friendly for beginners too.

The lyrics are excellent, and I bet many people have heard it even if they don’t know the band or the song title.

Once you hear it, you won’t forget it—a wonderful track.

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SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Soranin'

SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

In addition to ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, this song is also known for having been sung by Aoi Miyazaki.

It has a calm yet catchy melody that easily sticks in your head.

The male and female versions are in different keys, so be careful when making a cover.

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