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] (21–30)
EncoreSasanomarii
Singer-songwriter sasakure.UK, who began making music as a Vocaloid producer under the name nekobolo and made his major-label debut in 2016.
His 13th digital-only single “Encore,” chosen as the theme song for the animated short iichiko story ep.3: The Shapes and Whereabouts of Three Sounds, is striking for its deep, piano-and-strings–driven ensemble.
The lyrics, which make us notice the important things we tend to overlook in daily life, may prompt many listeners to reflect on themselves and take a broader look around.
It’s a heartwarming number with a pleasantly floating melody.
Bon-giri Love SongSazan Ōrusutāzu
Southern All Stars have released countless classic summer songs over the years.
In 2023, they unveiled a track with a completely different vibe from their previous work: “Bongiri Koi-uta.” It features a sound infused with elements of traditional folk music, letting you fully feel the atmosphere of a Japanese summer.
Another highlight is the array of creative touches woven throughout the song.
I hope you’ll listen closely and savor both its bittersweetness and its playful charm.
By the way, in the music video the members perform on a bon-odori festival tower, which adds a wonderfully summery touch.
Trending Music [July 2023] (31–40)
I want to be your lover.Chōkyūmei
Chokyumei, who have been drawing attention for their one-of-a-kind aesthetic, explore the emotions of the exact moment you fall in love in “I Want to Be Your Lover.” They delve into that mysterious instant by comparing it to chocolate.
The pop-jazz-like melody can also be taken as depicting the excitement and flutter of falling in love.
First, I hope you’ll listen without overthinking and just feel the sweetness and poignancy of love.
Then on your second listen, why not focus on their powerful vocals and the stylish music video?
raspberryMarushii
Marcy is a three-piece rock band whose lyrics, delicately depicting the intricacies of the human heart that defy simple explanation, have been gaining attention not only in Japan but across Asia.
Released digitally on June 28, 2023, “Raspberry” strikes a chord with its lyrical guitar riff intro and a poignant vocal melody.
Many listeners may find themselves overlaying their own romances and memories onto the story—a love that won’t fade, even while knowing deep down it won’t be reciprocated.
It’s a bittersweet pop tune: brisk yet tinged with melancholy, with an ensemble that feels sentimental and sweet-and-sour.
Your Vanishing WorldWi Sekai Jōcho
Singer Isekai Joucho, who calls herself a “virtual dark singer,” creates stories through song and original works as her core concept.
Her track “Kimi Shoushitsu Sekai,” released digitally on July 3, 2023, immediately grabs the ear with an intro built around a catchy, chromatic guitar riff.
The whirlwind arrangement and the contrast between her translucent yet shadow-tinged vocals are likely to captivate not only rock fans.
It’s a song you’ll want to replay again and again, with a high-energy, fast-paced chorus that lifts your spirits.
Shut It DownMukai Taichi
Taichi Mukai is a singer-songwriter who has gained popularity with songs that blend R&B with diverse influences like alternative, ambient, and electro.
“Shut It Down,” included on his mini-album CANVAS released on June 28, 2023, strikes a perfect balance between a hooky, rhythmic verse and a melodious chorus.
The lyrics convey a determination to follow one’s chosen path no matter what others say, which may give courage to those wavering over their dreams or goals.
It’s a positive track marked by a finely tuned pop sensibility.
JUMPŌhara Sakurako
This pop and upbeat song, so characteristic of Sakurako Ohara, is “JUMP,” released in 2023.
In fact, 2023 marked the 10th anniversary of her debut.
The song reflects on her activities so far and expresses her feelings for the fans who have supported her at this milestone.
Reading the lyrics gives you the courage to keep going—like, “Even if things don’t go well, let’s move forward little by little.” It’s a recommended track for when you’re feeling down or need a little extra push.
