Lovely Western music

Recommendation of Western Rock: Recommended Foreign Rock Bands, Popular Bands

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICKeisuke Hane
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. After working at a music studio and in wedding sound engineering, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with various instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in middle school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on personal music activities and professional experience, produces daily articles, including song introductions, features on music festivals around Japan, and live reports. Enjoys a wide range of music, from domestic and international rock to, more recently, a broad spectrum of J-pop.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

You still hear people say things like, “I listen to Japanese rock bands, but I’m not so good with Western music,” even today, when it’s easier than ever to listen online to music from any era and anywhere in the world from the comfort of your home.

There are many reasons for this, but it seems some people feel a hurdle simply because the lyrics aren’t in Japanese.

So this time, we’ll introduce recommended Western rock bands for those who are thinking of getting into Western rock.

From legendary big names to bands lighting up the 2020s, we’ve picked a diverse lineup to enjoy!

Recommendation of Western Rock: Recommended Western Bands, Popular Bands (131–140)

Surfin’ USAThe Beach Boys

Beach Boys – Surfin Usa HD

Surfin' USAThe Beach Boys

The Beach Boys are a quintessential West Coast rock band.

Many people have probably heard their signature song “Surfin’ U.

S.

A.

,” and they’re a great recommendation for anyone just getting into Western rock.

They debuted in 1962, right at the dawn of rock’s golden age.

Their early songs were inspired by the lifestyle of California youth, so many tracks focus on familiar themes like surfing and girls on the beach.

Enjoy their feel-good rock ’n’ roll that will make you want to head straight for the ocean!

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Song 2Blur

Blur – Song 2 (Official Music Video)

Song 2Blur

In Japan, he’s overshadowed by Oasis, but the vocalist Damon is actually incredibly talented.

Beyond his solo albums, he’s active in multiple projects like Gorillaz and other collaborations.

He might be the most gifted of his generation.

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Star SignTeenage Fanclub

Teenage Fanclub – Star Sign

Star SignTeenage Fanclub

When it comes to four-minute pop songs, I honestly feel there’s no band that can top them—to the point where I sometimes think most Japanese guitar rock is basically a copy of this band.

They’re veterans now, but you can still enjoy music that feels like a textbook of rock.

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Don’t Look Back Into The SunThe Libertines

The Libertines – Don’t Look Back Into The Sun (Official Video)

Don't Look Back Into The SunThe Libertines

They’re the most quintessentially British indie rock band.

This stripped-down sound might seem dull to ears accustomed to J-pop.

But once you get used to these non-overdubbed recordings, it starts to feel like rock.

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In conclusion

From legendary icons who have etched their names into rock history to young talents leading the scene since the 2020s, we showcased many bands.

Even though these are Western songs, many of the classics are used in Japanese TV shows and commercials, so you may have discovered, “Oh, that song was by this band!” If this article has helped convey even a bit of the wonderful appeal of Western rock, I’m delighted!