Trending Music [July 2023]
The music scene is evolving with every passing moment.
In July 2023, the songs reaching our ears carry the spirit of the times and reveal fresh expressions.
Tracks going viral on social media, hits lighting up the streaming charts, voices that move us echoing through live shows.
Here is your chance to encounter the music you should be listening to right now—sounds that will stir your soul.
Shall we surrender to the magic of music and journey together through this summer’s soundscape?
- Trending Music [June 2023]
- Trending Music [August 2023]
- Trending Music [September 2023]
- Trending Music [March 2023]
- Trending Music [October 2023]
- [July Songs] A selection of Japanese summer tunes perfect for the start of the season!
- Trending Music [August 2024]
- Trending Music [November 2023]
- Buzz-Worthy Summer Classics on YouTube Shorts [Viral Tracks Special]
- From new releases to classics: Popular summer songs on TikTok
- Trending Music [September 2024]
- Trending Music [May 2024]
- Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new staple tracks that color the hot summer
Trending Music [July 2023] (1–10)
MonsterLIL LEAGUE from EXILE TRIBE
Monster by LIL LEAGUE, a six-member dance and vocal group from LDH.
Released in July 2023 as the second double A-side single Higher / Monster, the track was also chosen as the theme song for the drama The Demon King of Job Change starring Ryo Narita.
The lyrics and melody subtly evoke a sense of darkness that ties in with the drama’s title and draw you in.
Beyond their vocals, LIL LEAGUE’s dancing is a major attraction—the choreography in the music video is insanely cool, so be sure to check it out as well.
Let me see your phone (feat. Hashi Melo & Maeshima Soshi)MAISONdes
MAISONdes is a music project with the concept of artists collaborating and showcasing songs in a certain apartment.
Each time, collaborations by the hottest artists attract attention, and especially among younger generations, many people probably have several favorite tracks among MAISONdes’ works.
In this song released in June 2023, Hashimero handled the lyrics, composition, and vocals, while maeshima soshi did the arrangement, resulting in a distinctly Reiwa-era sound.
The lyrics, which sing “Show me your phone,” feel heavy yet, thanks to the song’s cute vibe, it’s a fun, upbeat track you can really get into.
I’m a messMY FIRST STORY
Let me introduce “I’M A MESS,” a song that straightforwardly expresses love for someone special.
It’s a track released by the four-piece rock band MY FIRST STORY, which also drew attention for their performance on THE FIRST TAKE.
It’s a classic love song that sings of love over a fast-paced sound, so I think people of all ages will enjoy it.
It’s also said to reflect the period of self-restraint during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With that in mind, you may feel a different message from it.
Trending Music [July 2023] (11–20)
COCONUTNiziU
NiziU is a nine-member girl group selected through a Japan–Korea joint global audition project, drawing attention even before their debut.
Their second album’s title track, COCONUT, features tropical-evoking sounds and melodies that linger in your ears, just as the title suggests.
The lyrics, brimming with anticipation for the hot season, are likely to resonate with many people as summer approaches.
It’s a pop tune with a liberating arrangement that lifts your spirits, marked by a cute ensemble and tight beats.
SweetOCTPATH
OCTPATH is an eight-member boy group formed by members who appeared on PRODUCE 101 JAPAN SEASON2 and is affiliated with Yoshimoto Kogyo.
Their fourth single, “Sweet,” released on July 5, 2023, features a breezy, upbeat ensemble that lifts your spirits.
The lyrics evoke scenes of summer, likely heightening each listener’s anticipation for the hot season.
With overlapping, translucent vocals that feel soothing, it’s a pop tune perfect as BGM for drives or vacations.
Liberation CarnivalORANGE RANGE
ORANGE RANGE is a five-member rock band that has released numerous smash hits, including Shanghai Honey and Hana.
Their digital single Kaihō Carnival, created in collaboration with the bourbon whiskey Jim Beam, features an open, summery ensemble that leaves a strong impression.
The rap and melodic lines, driven by the three MCs to create dynamic development, amplify the heat of the season alongside passionate lyrics.
It’s a refreshing dance tune that pairs perfectly with the sun and sea—high-energy yet cool in vibe, irresistibly catchy.
Butterfly EffectSEKAI NO OWARI
SEKAI NO OWARI is a four-member co-ed band that crafts a wide-ranging worldview—from global to minimal—through sounds that evoke a sense of fantasy.
Released as a triple A-side along with Turquoise and Saraba, their 17th major single Butterfly Effect was chosen as the opening theme for the TV drama My Husband in Name Only.
The pop melody sung by pianist Saori reveals a different side of SEKAI NO OWARI from the songs sung by vocalist Fukase.
With its upbeat rhythm and gentle vocals, it’s a track that feels comfortable and makes you want to listen again and again.