A classic masterpiece of visual kei. A staple and popular song representing V-kei rock.
Visual kei rock, ignited by X JAPAN and exploding into a massive boom in the ’90s.
Though it went through a lull, today it has become a firmly established, internationally recognized genre, known abroad simply as “Visual Kei.” Encompassing everything from metal and gothic rock to classical and punk within the “visual kei” package, it enabled a wide range of expression—truly a uniquely Japanese musical genre.
This time, we’ll introduce a selection of iconic songs from visual kei bands that symbolize its history!
- A collection of hit songs and classics that opened the door to 1990s Visual Kei
- [Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by V-kei bands from the 2000s
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Masterpieces and popular songs by DIR EN GREY
- [BUCK-TICK Masterpieces] Popular Songs by the Legendary Band with an Overwhelming Presence
- Masterpieces and Popular Songs of X JAPAN
- Debut song of a 90s visual kei band
- Famous and popular songs by MUCC
- Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
- Debut song of an 80s visual-kei band
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- Classic Japanese metal songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- The Aesthetics of Darkness: An Introduction to Gothic Rock — Notable Bands
A classic of visual-kei. Staple, popular songs representing V-kei rock (1–10)
JUPITERBUCK-TICK
Released in 1991, this work is one of BUCK-TICK’s signature gems.
Featuring a 12-string guitar and acoustic elements, its striking clarity brought forward by lush choruses showcases a bold new musical direction for the band.
Atsushi Sakurai’s lyrics, written with profound emotion around the theme of his mother’s death, portray loss, sorrow, and hope, resonating deeply with listeners.
The song was also used in a commercial for Victor Japan’s CD radio cassette recorder “CDioss,” and reached No.
8 on the Oricon chart.
Frequently performed live, it remains a beloved track that offers solace to those who feel loneliness or pain.
Nocturne Under the MoonMALICE MIZER
A single by MALICE MIZER, known for their fantastical worldview and distinctive musicality.
The lyrics intertwine fairy tale–like storytelling with cruelty, and the composition uniquely fuses classical music with rock.
Released in February 1998, it was also included on the album “merveilles,” released in March of the same year.
Centered around piano, the track effectively incorporates acoustic guitar and accordion as well.
The music video, notable for its elaborate costumes and carefully crafted aesthetic, is also memorable, with a filming episode in two meters of snow becoming a topic of conversation.
Evoking the quiet and melancholy of the night, this work is recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a dreamlike musical world.
HONEYL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
Despite its simple band sound, this work delivers a robust ensemble: exhilarating guitar strums, obbligato lines that tighten the arrangement, a bass line that weaves freely in all directions, and tight drum beats.
Centered on a love affair with a sweet yet dangerous allure, it skillfully captures both the sweetness and the precariousness of romance.
Released in 1998 as the band’s 10th single, it is widely known as one of L’Arc~en~Ciel’s signature songs.
It was also used as the ending theme for the soccer information program “Super Soccer” and as a commercial song for NTT Personal Kansai.
It’s a pop tune that everyone can get excited about at karaoke, so why not add it to your repertoire?
Masterpieces of Visual Kei. Classic and popular songs representing V-kei rock (11–20)
HANABI-la Grand RotationSEX MACHINEGUNS
This is an irresistible number for heavy metal fans, where astonishing musicianship merges with a unique worldview.
The lyrics, portraying a protagonist heading to work while reminiscing about a passionate event the night before, shine with SEX MACHINEGUNS’ signature humor and social satire.
Included on the album “SEX MACHINEGUN,” released in October 1998, it has long been cherished as one of the band’s signature songs.
The melody, delivered over fierce guitar riffs and blistering drums, is striking and draws listeners into the world of the night.
Whether for blowing off steam after work or igniting a party, this track is sure to deliver tremendous impact.
Black Boots ~oh my friend~SOPHIA
A masterpiece by SOPHIA that portrays the preciousness of friendship and the pain of loss.
Inspired by the accidental death of Mitsuru Matsuoka’s close friend, the song weaves deep sorrow and resolve into its bright, upbeat sound.
Released in November 1998 as their eighth single, it also drew attention for its visually striking music video directed by Spanish filmmaker Pablo Berger.
The track is included on the album “Material” and has become a staple at their live shows.
It’s a recommended song for anyone seeking the courage to overcome sorrow and rekindle their passion.
The world under the umbrellaMix Speaker’s,Inc.
A song by Mix Speaker’s, Inc known for its fantastical worldview and emotionally rich expression.
Highlighted by a distinctive twin-vocal style, this work blends pop, catchy melodies with lyrics that carry a nostalgic atmosphere.
Included on the album “It’s a Dream World,” released in June 2011, it was also used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s program “V no Ryūgi” (The Way of V).
Depicting a theme-park-like world, this piece is recommended for those seeking escapism or an imagination-rich story.
HOWEVERGLAY
A masterpiece themed around love and rebirth that portrays the transience of life and the pursuit of happiness.
It’s one of GLAY’s signature songs and was also used as the ending theme for the TBS drama “Ryakudatsuai: Abunai Onna.” Although some members called it “dark,” it was released as a single thanks to TAKURO’s strong conviction.
The anecdote that it was inspired and created during their stay in London is fascinating as well.
The lyrics, infused with the strength to overcome past experiences and the feeling of cherishing everyday life with a loved one, offer a message that resonates with many.
It’s a recommended track not only for GLAY fans but also for anyone standing at a crossroads in life.