Recommended Japanese bands for men in their 60s

Bai Yai Yai ~Obocchama-kun Theme~ingurimonguri

Bai Yai Yai ~Obocchama-kun Theme~

Ingurimonguri transformed from a Yokohama-born student band into a comedic pop sensation that made waves on television.

In 1985, they won the Grand Prix at the YOKOHAMA HIGH SCHOOL HOT WAVE FESTIVAL and debuted the same year with their first single “Joshi Kōsei” on Philips Records.

Following the release of their album “Sotsugyō Kinen,” they were active on two fronts—music and variety—appearing regularly on a TBS variety show and serving as hosts on Nippon Broadcasting System’s All Night Nippon.

In 1989, they performed the opening theme for a TV anime and successfully headlined a concert at Nippon Budokan the same year.

Rooted in rock yet brimming with comedic, youthful energy, their performances are recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy a fusion of laughter and music.

Boyoyon Rockmanga michi

Boyoyon Rock: The Manga Road

This project etched an unusual episode into the history of Japanese comic bands.

Formed in April 1989 around Kenji Ohtsuki and Yuichiro Uchida, Manga-do was a temporary unit born from a radio program.

Centered on members of Kinniku Shōjo-tai, with participation from JUN SKY WALKER(S), the songs they produced drew a major response, reaching No.

10 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Their sound, which exquisitely blended hard rock with gags, became a hot topic on TV and radio at the time, suggesting new possibilities for comic bands.

Although their activities ended with the conclusion of the radio program, they left a unique mark from the perspective of fusing music and comedy.

They’re recommended for those who want to enjoy both music and humor.

Bakabon’s BACK YOUPāru Kyōdai

Bakabon’s BACK YOU

Pearl Brothers, formed in 1983, deliver a finely tuned harmony of music and comedy.

While grounded in rock, techno, and new wave, their distinctive style incorporates comedic elements that have captivated many listeners.

They made their major-label debut in 1986 with the album “Mirai wa Pearl” (“The Future Is Pearl”), where the satirical lyrics of Kenzo Saeki, formerly of Halmens, meld perfectly with the members’ outstanding musicianship.

In 1992, they created the opening theme for the popular TV program “Asakusabashi Young Yōhinten,” drawing considerable attention.

Since their 2003 reunion, they have continued to perform vibrant live shows as a five-piece.

Their world, which balances humor and musicality, is perfect for music fans who want to enjoy both laughs and tunes.

Sea Side Jet CityBLANKEY JET CITY

Blankey Jet City – Sea Side Jet City

This is a release by the Japanese band Blankey Jet City, whose presence—having cemented their status as legendary rock artists—unleashed a youthful yet intense sound.

With a mood-rich coolness that shines throughout, it’s crafted to be fresh and easy to listen to even for men in their 60s.

over the topMiyamoto Hiroji

over the top

Hiroji Miyamoto is captivating for his piercing, rough-edged vocal delivery.

As the vocalist of Elephant Kashimashi since the late 1980s, he has been active across a wide range of genres including rock, folk, and blues.

While the band’s early sound was strongly influenced by punk and new wave, it gradually evolved in a more melodic direction.

His powerful voice carries a unique allure—brimming with fervent passion that comes at you hot, yet tinged with a certain wistfulness.

In 2019, he released the solo album “Hiroji Miyamoto,” and in 2021 he received the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s Art Encouragement Prize.

With overwhelming vocal ability and expressive power, he is highly regarded within the music industry.

Highly recommended if you want to be moved by deeply emotional singing.

YOUNG, ALIVE, IN LOVE – Love and Machine Gun –Flipper’s Guitar

YOUNG, ALIVE, IN LOVE – Love and a Machine Gun – / FLIPPER’S GUITAR [Official Music Video]

Formed in the late 1980s around Keigo Oyamada and Kenji Ozawa and flying the Neo-GS flag, Flipper’s Guitar was a band that took the music scene by storm with its sophisticated pop sensibility and experimental sound.

They debuted in 1989 with the album “three cheers for our side ~ umi e iku tsumori janakatta,” leaving a vivid impression, and went on to release “CAMERA TALK” and “DOCTOR HEAD’S WORLD TOWER.” By reinterpreting elements of ’60s garage rock and psychedelic pop in a contemporary way, they forged a singular musical identity.

Until their sudden breakup in 1991, their music continued to exert a major influence on Japanese indie music, and with its creative ideas and melodic beauty, it still captivates many listeners today.

They’re a band I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking new possibilities in music.

UkifuneGO!GO!7188

GO!GO!7188 – Ukifune / Ukifune – Ukifune (Official PV)

This is a three-piece rock band formed by classmates Yuu and Akko from Kagoshima.

They specialize in surf rock and garage rock infused with traditional Japanese flavors, and made their major debut in 2000.

Skillfully weaving in elements of nostalgic Shōwa-era pop while adding a punk rock edge, they captivated many fans with their distinctive sound.

Their fiery live performances—driven by Yuu’s striking vocals and guitar, Akko’s bass, and Turkey’s drums—left audiences in awe.

Even after disbanding in February 2012, the members each continued their musical pursuits.

If you discovered rock in your youth, this band will surely resonate with you.