Top 10 Best Asian Rock Artists

Rock in Asia does not sit politely in one corner of the music world. It shreds, screams, broods, explodes into arena choruses, and occasionally shows up wearing enough eyeliner to make your favorite goth uncle feel underdressed. On this list, you get artists and bands from across the continent who have built fierce fanbases through musicianship, stage presence, and songs that do not need a passport to hit hard.

You will find everything from visual kei theatrics and heavy metal thunder to progressive arrangements, punk bite, alternative rock, and emotionally loaded ballads that sneak up on you with a guitar solo in hand. Some acts helped define major rock scenes in their home countries, while others crossed borders through anime themes, international tours, online fan communities, or the simple fact that a great riff remains a great riff in any language.

Vote for the Asian rock artists you think deserve the top spots. Maybe you are here for technical skill. Maybe vocals. Maybe the band that got you through a brutal week. Whatever your reason, plug in, turn it up, and back the artists who prove Asia's rock scene has plenty of volume left.

1. X Japan

   

   X Japan is a Japanese heavy metal band formed in Chiba in 1982 by drummer and pianist Yoshiki Hayashi (known as Yoshiki) and lead vocalist Toshimitsu "Toshi" Deyama. Originally called X, they pioneered the visual kei movement, combining elaborate visuals with heavy metal and ballads.... read more

   Yes, they are amazing too! Yoshiki, the drum destroyer. Toshi, the best voice your ears will ever hear. Hide, the most badass and craziest guitarist ever. Pata, an amazing guitarist and the awesomest hippie. Sugizo, the perfect newest addition to the group. Taiji is epic as hell when it comes to bass - every band he joined had great success. And now Heath - he is the youngest in the group, but he is really amazing at the bass too, not to mention he's really cute!

   Well, I think all of them are hot in their own way. I like all of them!

   X Japan is the best. They are legendary. There's nothing to question about their talent and professionalism. They rock your heart every time they are on stage.

   They produce great and very impressive shows that no one can resist. Beware your heart when you listen to their music, because their ballads can ignite your soul. They also inspire their fans to fight for their dreams, just like X Japan. Prove my words for yourself.

2. L'Arc~en~Ciel

   

   L'Arc-en-Ciel is a Japanese rock band formed in Osaka in 1991 by bassist Tetsuya and vocalist Hyde. The band's lineup was completed by guitarist Ken and drummer Yukihiro, and they quickly gained popularity for their blend of pop and rock influences. They have sold over 40 million records and became the... read more

   I do not understand a word of Japanese, but their music is what makes me listen to it! I listen to English bands, but nobody makes music as good as them! Tetsu is the god of bass. Just ask anyone who plays bass and check his lines of Shout at the Devil and Heaven's Drive. They are super difficult to play.

   Hyde's voice is amazing and very unique. His range is the best I've heard!

   Their music is full of style and attitude. The exhilarating drum beats, the sexy guitar, the stunning bass, and the voice that can only come from heaven. This is the band that you definitely cannot miss.

   Their music is not merely superb skills but touches the deepest part of your heart.

3. Gackt

   

   Gakuto Oshiro (大城 ガクト Ōshiro Gakuto, born July 4, 1973), better known by his mononymous stage name Gackt, is a Japanese musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor. He has been active since 1993, first as the frontman of the short-lived independent band Cains:Feel and later for the now-defunct... read more

   Gackt is the best because he has the best voice. He can sing beautifully, but he has a rock voice too.

   It's very important: James Hetfield (Metallica's singer) knows him, and they (Gackt and James) are friends!

   He's also a rock artist and a hell of a good one, so bear with it. He's the best in many aspects!

   If you listen to his vocals, melody, and lyrics and if you know what really good music is, you'll see it in him!

   Gackt is a remarkable individual - extremely talented in every aspect, passionate, artistic, witty, and athletic. He is truly gifted.

4. The Gazette

   

   The Gazette, originally known as Gazette, is a Japanese visual kei rock band from Kanagawa, formed in early 2002. They are currently signed to Sony Music Records.

   The band is known for its theatrical style and blend of alternative rock, metal, and punk influences. Their discography includes notable... read more

   I love The Gazette. Whenever you feel down, listen to them. Whenever you feel happy, listen to them. They are so amazing, and they light up my world by just existing. They absolutely deserve first place. Every one of them saves my day. They love their fans, and they are amazing musicians.

   Gazerock is NOT dead!

   Honestly, they are one of the best bands in the world, let alone Japan. They have amazing and meaningful lyrics, sound unbelievable, and at the end of the day, are all down-to-earth, humble guys.

   The GazettE is truly awesome! Despite my lack of understanding of Japanese, their songs are incredibly beautiful. They've inspired me to learn Japanese and even reignited my passion for playing the guitar.

5. Aurthohin

   

   Aurthohin is a Bangladeshi hard rock and metal band formed in 1998 by bassist, singer, and songwriter Sumon. He is the only founding member still active in the band. Aurthohin is known for their blend of melodic acoustic tracks and heavy metal songs, with albums often featuring extensive use of bass... read more

   Aurthohin is, hands down, the greatest musical band of all time in any genre! I wish more people understood Bengali to grasp their greatness.

   Their lineup from 2007 to 2012 was the best lineup in the history of music! I'm not even overhyping anything. Bassbaba Sumon is the greatest bassist and lyricist ever! Not to mention, he is a cancer survivor and a fighter. Rafa is probably the greatest vocalist and multi-instrument talent in Bangladesh's history. Shishir and Kamal are two of the best guitarists in Asia!

   What more could you ask for? Their two albums during that time, "Aushomapto 1" and "Aushomapto 2," are widely regarded as the best albums in Bangladeshi history. Their lyrics are out of this world!

   They have seven studio albums and over 100 songs. I still discover new Aurthohin songs to this day. They've made songs about all subjects and worked in all genres like rock, pop, metal, rap, folk, funk, and more. Their tunes and compositions are better than any other band in the world. Aurthohin is love, Aurthohin is life!

6. HYDE

   

   Hyde, born Hideto Takarai on January 29, 1969, is a Japanese musician, singer-songwriter, record producer, and actor. He is the lead vocalist of the rock band L'Arcen~Ciel, which has achieved major commercial success in Japan and internationally. Hyde also maintains a solo career and has released several... read more

   I had the opportunity to see HYDE at Anime Expo when he performed at the House of Blues. He absolutely rocked the stage!

   I became a huge fan. His guitar skills far exceeded my expectations.

   He explores the upper stratum of rock music and the depths of emotion. His voice, his lyrics, his melodies, his driving guitar... all the raving about him is not as good as listening to him.

   What a sexy angel he is, too.

7. Asian Kung-Fu Generation

   They are the best Japanese rock band. You can listen to many of their songs without getting bored.

8. Miyavi

   

   Takamasa Ishihara, better known by his stage name Miyavi, is a Japanese singer-songwriter, guitarist, record producer, and actor. He is known for his distinctive finger-slapping style of guitar playing. Miyavi has also acted in films, including Unbroken (2014), directed by Angelina Jolie.

   Electric or acoustic, hard rock or ballad, Miyavi is brilliant, fast, and intricate. He plays his instruments like they're alive, and they like it. Raw and tender, experimental, ridiculously joyous and mercurial, a voice with a growl under it that's absolute, dead faint sex.

   He's just unstoppable. His skill is undeniable. He can rock the place so well, while at the same time he can make you emotional till the very end. He has a skill, a feeling, and you can feel his soul with all the songs he plays.

   Originality just defines him. He creates new rock, his lyrics are deep and wonderful, he is stylish and rocks.

   He does his music with pleasure and not for money. He loves his fans. This is why I love him.

9. Artcell

   

   Artcell is a Bangladeshi progressive metal band formed in October 1999. According to The Daily Star, a leading English-language daily in Bangladesh, Artcell is "one of the leading bands of the country." The band is known for its complex compositions and socially conscious lyrics.

   Artcell is the best! They are legendary. There's nothing to question about their talent and professionalism. They rock your heart every time they're on stage.

   They produce great and very impressive shows that no one can resist! Beware your heart when you listen to their music because their ballad songs can fire your soul! They also inspire their fans to fight for their own dreams, just like Artcell.

   Let's prove my words by yourself.

   Artcell is undeniably one of the best Asian bands. They deserve to be in the top five at least. If you doubt this, just listen to them. You'll understand why.

10. J-Rocks

    They are amazing. Their songs also inspire the youth, like "Ceria" and "Meraih Mimpi."

The Newcomers
11. ?

    Moheener Ghoraguli

    Most of the Indian artists listed here are either pop or rap artists. This band is a rock band from India and is considered the first Indian rock band.

12. ?

    Dreamcatcher

The Contenders

13. Seo Taiji

    He's a musical genius. His songs are intoxicating. They have powerful arrangements with catchy tunes.

    Korean Rock God! Majesty, power, passion - he'll send you into rock heaven.

    He's the president of Korean modern culture.

14. Arnel Pineda

    

    Arnel Campaner Pineda is a Filipino singer and songwriter who rose to prominence in the Philippines in the 1980s. In 2007, he became internationally known after being chosen as the lead singer of the American rock band Journey. He was discovered through YouTube videos showcasing his performances with... read more

    Arnel may not be the original vocalist of the band Journey, but whenever he sings the Journey songs, he nails it! His voice is very powerful. Even Oprah and Ellen DeGeneres were blown away by his vocal prowess.

    Despite the fact that he didn't undergo any formal vocal training, his voice was molded through singing experience and hardships he endured. His soprano husky voice and growls make his performance remarkable.

    Arnel Pineda is a sure bet! He's undeniably one of the most talented and pure vocal wonders. His humble personality is an added bonus.

15. SID

    SID can't be ranked like this. They reached perfection in music. Their vocalist Mao has the most amazing voice, which is the most recognizable voice ever.

    Guitarist Shinji, bassist Aki, and drummer Yuya play their instruments with such passion. They worked hard to get where they are now. For that, SID simply is one of the best.

16. CNBLUE

    While CN Blue leans more towards pop rock, they still deliver captivating performances because they excel in singing live and playing their own instruments.

    They are talented with great vocals. Their songs are soft and sweet!

    Literally my underrated favorites! They just make epic music. Go listen to them.

17. Atif Aslam

    

    Muhammad Atif Aslam is a Pakistani singer and film actor. He made his movie debut in the 2011 social drama Bol, which received critical acclaim and was a box office success in Pakistan. Aslam is widely known for his playback singing in Pakistani and Indian cinema and has won several awards for his contributions... read more

    His voice and singing style are totally different.

18. D'erlanger

19. Dir En Grey

    

    Dir En Grey is a Japanese heavy metal band formed in 1997 and currently signed to Firewall Div., a sub-division of Free-Will. The band is known for its experimental approach and diverse musical style, incorporating elements of rock, metal, and avant-garde. They have a strong international following and... read more

    Hands down, one of the best and most underappreciated bands of all time. Their music ranges from rock ballads to death metal. Kyo hits one of the largest vocal ranges ever and even adds in human-like vocals. Whether you prefer something a bit more pop rock (Old Diru) or something with a more Western metal feel while still maintaining its originality, check out anything by this band.

    Dir en Grey is an amazing band. Kyo manages to break past language barriers and delivers an incredible range of vocals. If you're looking for a great band with meaningful lyrics, no disappointments, and a stupendous live performance, Dir en Grey is it. From Visual Kei to hardcore metal.

20. Warfaze

    

    Warfaze is a Bangladeshi hard rock band founded in 1984. The current lineup includes Palash Noor (vocals), Ibrahim Ahmed Kamal (lead guitar), Sheikh Monirul Alam Tipu (drums and percussion), Samir Hafiz (guitar), Shams Mansoor Ghani (keyboards and vocals), and Naim Haque Roger (bass).... read more

    This is the prestigious rock/hard rock/metal band that was founded in 1984 by Ibrahim Ahmed Kamal (Guitarman) in Bangladesh. When the idea of establishing a rock/metal band in India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh in 1984 was unthinkable, they did it. Warfaze's first album was released in 1991.

    Can anyone show an album of the rock/metal genre from all of Asia in 1991? Perhaps there were, but of course, maybe from very few countries. Warfaze is Bangladesh's pride.

    Atif Aslam, even Kunal Ganjawala is over Warfaze. Maybe marijuana becomes so cheap because of the economic crisis. We should understand rock music before voting. Rock music doesn't depend on vocals only. All other members of a rock band are equally (I repeat, equally) important...

21. Kunal Ganjawala

22. Jal

    Jal is a marvelous band. I love them! Particularly, I'm fond of Panchi and Aadat.

    They truly deserve to be at the top of the list. Please, produce more and more songs.

    I'm an Indian, but they are my best rock band. I love every song of theirs, especially Dil Haarey Pukaarey.

23. Bamboo

24. ONE OK ROCK

    

    One OK Rock is a Japanese rock band formed in Tokyo in 2005. The current lineup includes Takahiro Taka Moriuchi (vocals), Toru Yamashita (guitar), Ryota Kohama (bass), and Tomoya Kanki (drums).

    I don't know a lot of Asian bands, only The Gazette, One Ok Rock, and CNBLUE (well, at least people say that it's a rock band). It's hard to choose between The Gazette and One Ok Rock, but I choose One Ok Rock because I understand and like their lyrics.

    Though I love The Gazette's guitar and bass. Really hard decision. Okay, I'm giving this vote to One Ok Rock because, let's admit it, they deserve a better place on this list!

    This band is really underrated. I hope they'll grow a lot in the future, and their international tour will help them with winning popularity worldwide because they have yet to be discovered by many people!

    Love their energy and their variety of different types of music!

25. Ayub Bachchu

    Ayub Bachchu, the best guitarist in Asia and lead vocalist of the number one band LRB in Bangladesh, is a source of immense pride for all Bangladeshis.

    He is also a versatile music composer. Undoubtedly, he is the best.

    Ayub Bachchu is a legend to billions across South Asia. His music has entertained three generations since the '80s.

    He is undoubtedly a rockstar to the Bengali people.

    Ayub Bachchu is a leading rock star of Bangladesh. I hope he will top the list, representing Bangladesh along with Nogor Baul James.

26. TVXQ

    

    TVXQ, also known as Dong Bang Shin Ki (DBSK), is a South Korean pop duo that originally debuted as a five-member group in 2003. They played a major role in the rise of the Korean Wave and became extremely popular in both domestic and international markets. After three members left in 2010, TVXQ continued... read more

    They are the only Korean boy band included in this category. They are the best in Korea.

    Always keep the faith.

27. Fossils

    Not only the best band in India, but also one of the greatest rock bands in the world. I think they deserve the 1st or 2nd position on this list.

    Those who haven't listened to them yet must hear great compositions like Ekla Ghar, Hasnuhana, Bishakto Manush, Shashti, Nemesis, Manabboma, the concept album F3, etc. They will surely love it. Rockers, vote them to the top!