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
Masterpieces of Visual Kei. Classic and popular songs representing V-kei rock (11–20)
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.
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.
The First StepADAPTER。
ADAPTER is a solo project known for its distinctive sound that fuses electronica and rock.
This track stands out with techno elements infused with a Japanese aesthetic and lyrics carrying a powerful message.
The words, which emphasize the importance of facing hardships and moving forward step by step, are sure to give listeners courage.
It’s a fan favorite often performed live.
A perfect song for times when you want to take on something new or lift your spirits.
Swaying…Laputa
Laputa, who produced numerous masterpieces—among them the song Yurenagara…—is truly a masterpiece among masterpieces.
Although Laputa is categorized within the visual kei scene as part of the Nagoya-kei style, their sound and visuals are saturated with the distinctive traits of that subgenre.
With its eerie yet intense melodies, this track will captivate you from the very first listen.
Pink Spiderhide with Spread Beaver
This is a song by X JAPAN’s now-deceased guitarist that boasts extremely high name recognition and popularity.
On the Oricon charts, it reached number one for the week and ranked number one for the year.
Even now, it’s still frequently played on the radio, and it made me feel that it’s a song with enduring, unwavering popularity.
Crimson Lotusthe GazettE
One of the leading bands in the visual-kei rock scene, the GazettE.
They debuted in 2004 and are known for having self-produced their work from the very beginning.
Because of that, their musical direction has never wavered to this day.
“Guren” is a standout track I especially recommend as one of the GazettE’s signature songs.
Centered on the theme of parents who have lost their child, its raw, vivid lyrics have made it extremely popular among fans.
Masterpieces of visual kei: staple, popular V-kei rock songs (21–30)
Rhapsody of the Autumn WindRaphael
Formed in the mid-teen years back in 1997, Raphael gained popularity even during their indie days and made their major debut in 1999.
However, their leader and guitarist, Kazuki, passed away suddenly in an unforeseen accident.
The band ended its activities before any of the members turned 20.
Despite their extremely short career, many bands respect them, and the songs they left behind are highly regarded.
The song introduced here, “Aki Kaze no Rhapsody” (Autumn Wind Rhapsody), is a representative track from their later period—an evocative masterpiece where YUKI’s classically trained vocals blend beautifully with guitar tones inspired by Irish music.
With each release their performance skills improved, and it’s clear that the talent of Kazuki, the main composer, was just about to take flight—making the loss all the more heartbreaking.
