Classic J-rock

Classic J-Rock, emerging prominently in the 70s and 80s, represents a fusion of traditional rock influences with a distinctly Japanese musical sensibility. Influenced by the global wave of rock and roll, artists like Motoharu Sano and bands such as RC Succession, はっぴいえんど (Happy End), and Flower Travellin' Band crafted a genre that melded the raw energy and electric guitar-driven sound of Western rock with Japanese language lyrics and cultural themes. The genre also features eclectic elements drawn from pop, blues, and folk, represented by artists like Haruomi Hosono and Shogo Hamada. Notable for its emotive vocals and engaging melodies, classic J-Rock has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Japanese music, leaving a legacy that contemporary J-Rock bands continue to draw inspiration from.

Japanese Pop Harpsichord - Live at Superspectives festival 2024, Lyon Opera

Haruomi Hosono•

Ryuichi Sakamoto

Album - 11 Tracks - Released November 14, 2025