Recommended Japanese bands for women in their 20s

Happy PonkotsuKyūso Nekokami

Kyuso Nekokami – “Happy Ponkotsu” MUSIC VIDEO

A song titled “Happy Ponkotsu,” meaning “Lovable Screwup.” Just as the title suggests, it’s packed with a positive message: even if you’re a screwup, it’s okay—you can still live a happy life.

Listening to it when you’re down after messing up at work will lift your spirits.

MiskasazuMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – “Miskasazu” Lyric Video

This is a song that sings about a feeling with no name.

It’s a rock number that gives voice to those uncontrollable emotions—like a life that won’t go your way or the confusion of love.

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s bright, pop tunes are charming, but songs like this, which touch on the darker corners of the heart, are cool in their own way.

Wherever you areONE OK ROCK

Wherever You Are – ONE OK ROCK Full

This song shot to fame thanks to a Docomo commercial and has since become a karaoke staple.

It’s also popular as a wedding song, especially among younger generations.

With its straightforward high-tone vocals that strike a chord, it’s one of ONE OK ROCK’s most beloved love songs.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

You could say this song is synonymous with BUMP OF CHICKEN.

Even if people don’t know the band well, many probably know the song Tentai Kansoku (Stargazing)! It sings about the narrator’s current feelings as they look up at the starry sky with “you.”

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” Live Music Video

This is the song that was used as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront and became a hot topic.

It’s addictive and I can’t help but hum along.

As an aside, the bassist’s wild performance in the live footage is incredible.

Your eyes go to the bass more than the vocals—the bass completely steals the show.

HallucigeniaChevon

Hallucigenia / Chevon [Lyric Video]

Chevon, a rising rock band from Sapporo, Hokkaido, was formed around lead vocalist Mayu Tanikinu.

They’re known for their crisp guitar rock sound and lyrics that are both cynical and philosophical.

In 2022, just a year after they began, they performed at JOIN ALIVE 2022.

On their co-headlining tour “Daikoushin,” Mayu Tanikinu’s monster-level vocal prowess became a hot topic.

Drawing on a wide musical range from classical to rap, they aim to create songs that hit you on a visceral level.

Their lyric videos express a unique worldview through visuals as well.

Women in their 20s thinking about going to a festival—why not let Chevon’s live show move you to the core?

Spring and Asurakinoko teikoku

Kinoko Teikoku “Spring and Asura” (with lyrics)

This song has a shocking opening line.

It’s included on the 2013 album “eureka.” You can feel raw, aggressive emotions like hatred and anger laid bare—and those exposed feelings shake your heart intensely.