Recommended and popular classic rock songs to listen to in spring

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

When you think of spring, what comes to mind?

Cherry blossoms, a season of meetings and farewells, a new life—there are many images, aren’t there?

And the emotions you feel in each of those moments can vary widely, too.

In this article, I’ll be introducing songs that are perfect for spring, with a focus on Japanese rock.

I’ve picked out many tracks that really resonate with the feelings you experience in spring.

Alongside timeless classics that have been loved for years, there are also songs by up-and-coming bands worth paying attention to in recent years, so please take your time and give them a listen.

Rock classics to listen to in spring: recommended popular songs (101–110)

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

This song delicately captures the sparkle and bittersweetness of youth.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery,” it has deeply resonated with listeners.

The flower language of lilacs—often symbolic of youth—overlaps with the emotions of waiting to reunite with one’s past self or someone dear, all set to Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s characteristically refreshing melody.

Released as a digital-only single from EMI Records in April 2024, it has surpassed 300 million streams.

It also won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards, marking a remarkable feat of back-to-back wins for the band.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to bask in the sweet-and-sour memories of their youth.

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Bring it on, spring.non

[Official Music Video] Non – I’ll Stand to Face Spring

Bring it on, spring.non

An anthem cheering on those taking new steps with the arrival of spring, it carries a powerful, uplifting message.

The track was released digitally in January 2025, with the music video premiering at the same time.

The MV centers on a student band’s graduation performance, beautifully capturing the sparkle of youth.

It’s a particularly recommended song for anyone about to embark on a new chapter this spring.

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rejuvenationjoōbachi

QUEEN BEE “Rejuvenation” Official MV

rejuvenationjoōbachi

Queen Bee is a four-piece rock band that has garnered support for songs featuring vocals with a wide range that switch seamlessly from low to high.

Their track Kaishun from their 8th album Jūnijigen also drew attention when a collaborative version with Hikari Mitsushima was released.

The overwhelming expressive power with which they alternate between male and female parts delivers more than enough impact to grasp Queen Bee’s appeal.

It’s an emotional number with a pleasantly wistful melody and ensemble.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Goodbye Busyuzu

Goodbye Bus / Yuzu (Cover)

Goodbye Busyuzu

It’s one of Yuzu’s popular songs about parting in spring.

The lyrics tell the story of someone dear who goes far away while the singer can’t quite be honest, and they’re heartrending and moving.

If you read them closely, many people might be reminded of a youthful love where they couldn’t express their feelings straightforwardly.

Those faint emotions that couldn’t be fully conveyed in youth come rushing back and tug at your heart.

Released in March 1999, the song is included on the album “Yuzuen.” It’s a perfect track for this season when new springtime chapters begin, like graduation and school entrance ceremonies.

For anyone feeling anxious about a new environment, it’s sure to be a song that gives you courage.

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SenbonzakuraWagakki Band

Wagakki Band / Senbonzakura

SenbonzakuraWagakki Band

In 2011, the Vocaloid producer Kuro Usagi wrote and composed Senbonzakura, a song that has since become a classic everyone knows.

Many people may also be familiar with the 2014 cover by Wagakki Band.

While “sakura songs” often bring to mind slow, ballad-like melodies, this track blends a distinctly Japanese flavor with speed and intensity.

If you manage to sing it through at karaoke, you’ll likely feel exhilarated.

Be sure to give it a listen under the full bloom of cherry blossoms.

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In conclusion

I put together and introduced Japanese rock songs perfect for spring. There were plenty of classic spring rock tracks, including recent standout songs from up-and-coming bands. From tunes that capture spring’s freshness to those themed around meetings and farewells, there were lots you’ll want to hear this season. If you’re a rock fan, don’t just stick to timeless hits that resonate across generations—be sure to check out tracks by younger bands too!