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
Masterpiece songs of Visual Kei. Classic, popular tracks representing V-kei rock (31–40)
You, who saved me as I was about to drown in a rotten sea.kagerou
They’re a band with a wide range of songs, from heavy tracks that make your chest ache just by listening, to medleys with poignant melodies and beautiful lyrics.
Although they were an indie band, they were extremely popular, but sadly disbanded to much regret.
The vocalist, Daisuke, had said they might resume activities if the timing was right, but in 2010 Daisuke passed away.
This song, with its quiet melody and Daisuke’s powerful vocals, is truly beautiful.
The bottom of the pitfall is a world like this.Matenrou Opera
A band formed by members originally from a heavy metal background.
As you’d expect, their playing technique is top-notch, and they slip in twisted phrases here and there.
In this song, those elements add a punch, and with the synthesizer arrangements and the drums hitting off the beat, you discover something new every time you listen.
The structure is dramatic as well.
This track is truly a hidden masterpiece.
Blue PlanetArisu Kyū Gō.
The visual-kei rock band Alice Nine’s song depicts a romantic story themed around a blue star.
It weaves in a fantastical worldview related to space and the stars, centering on themes of love, hope, and reminiscence.
The passion and determination of chasing a loved one are strikingly expressed.
It’s an uptempo guitar rock track characterized by powerful guitar riffs and clear, pure vocals.
Performed at live shows and on music programs, it is widely recognized as one of the band’s signature songs.
Its melodic yet powerful musicality has earned strong support from many fans.
LieShido
SID, a four-member band formed in 2003, is known for its expansive vocals and bittersweet melodies.
With catchy songs that feel approachable, they secured numerous tie-ins even before their 2008 debut.
Among their singles, one of the most famous is Uso, which was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.
The lyrics—interpretable as both romantic love and brotherly love—perfectly match the story of the series, and the melody and arrangement showcase the band’s appeal.
AquaBlu-BiLLioN
It’s a bittersweet, fleeting song that expresses the feelings of a fish who has fallen in love with its owner.
It’s said to be inspired by The Little Mermaid.
In a good way, this band’s songs don’t feel like typical visual kei, and I find this track appealing because it isn’t too intense—its melody and vocals are beautiful, and the overall tone is lovely.
A classic of the visual kei genre. Staple, popular songs representing V-kei rock (41–50).
Silent JealousyX JAPAN
As the pioneering force behind the visual kei genre and culture, X JAPAN not only transformed Japan’s metal scene but also dramatically altered the course of J-POP, ultimately achieving global recognition despite a tumultuous career.
Among their many famous and signature songs, one of the most popular is “Silent Jealousy.” Released in 1991 as a re-cut single from their third studio album, Jealousy, it was also performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, marking their first appearance on the program.
Its almost excessively dramatic song structure, dazzling twin leads, and melodies steeped in melancholy—an overwhelming surge of that unmistakable “X” sound—remain exhilarating no matter how many times you listen.
ASCENDEAD MASTERVersailles
They gained worldwide popularity with a visual concept inspired by medieval France and the high quality of their music, but went on hiatus in 2012, later resuming activities in 2015.
This song is an early work, yet it’s crafted into a dramatic, fast-paced speed metal tune.
The twin-guitar harmonies heard throughout are, as expected, exceptionally beautiful.