Trending Music [July 2023]

Trending Music [July 2023]

Last updated:2025/7/10

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

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 [July 2023] (1–10)

sunflowerAdo

[Ado] Sunflower

sunflowerAdo

After starting out as a utaite, Ado has become a new-generation singer who enjoys immense popularity both in Japan and abroad.

Her track “Himawari,” released digitally on July 11, 2023, was selected as the theme song for the TV drama “18/40: Dreams and Love If We’re Together.” The melody, woven with a voice that is both delicate and powerful, hints at a new chapter for Ado.

Its lyrics, expressing admiration and gratitude, are moving—an uplifting, heartwarming pop tune that makes you feel gentle just by listening.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Natsumatope#NAME?

=LOVE (Equal Love) / 14th Single “Natsu Matopé” [MV full]

Natsumatope#NAME?

=LOVE is a 10-member girls’ group produced by former AKB48 member Rino Sashihara, born as a new kind of voice-actor idol trained in voice acting.

Their 14th single, “Natsu Matopie,” drew attention for its double-center lineup featuring Maika Sasaki and Iori Noguchi.

Showcasing cute vocals in a refreshing ensemble, the track perfectly evokes the scenes of summer.

With plenty of call-and-response moments, it’s an upbeat tune guaranteed to fire up live shows and karaoke alike.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Flying DeityAyase×R-shitei

Flying Deity

Flying DeityAyase×R-shitei

Hiten,” a digital release chosen as the opening theme for the newly remade 2023 TV anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.

Created by R-Shitei—known from Creepy Nuts and Umeda Cipher—and Ayase, active as a Vocaloid producer and a member of YOASOBI, the track’s breakneck call-and-response creates a thrilling ensemble that really amps you up.

The lyrics, which link to the anime’s story, evoke a universal theme: even through doubt, you can only keep moving forward.

It’s a track that lingers in the ear with its striking contrast between aggressive rap and lyrical melody.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

ERTHCNAHQKHKMBNEZUOMBiS

ERAT H C N A H Q K H K M V NEZU U OM / BiS Newborn Idol Research Association [OFFiCiAL VIDEO]

ERTHCNAHQKHKMBNEZUOMBiS

BiS, an idol group whose name means “New Idol Research Association,” has repeatedly disbanded and reformed, yet continues to be highly active today.

Their fifth single as the third generation, “IEAIAIOEZIQKMBNZOOM,” features a catchy rock ensemble highlighted by an unforgettable guitar riff.

The melodically dramatic progression makes you want to sing along.

It’s an addictive pop tune that seems to embody the group’s distinctive style.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Where the light isCHiCO

Where the Light Is / CHiCO

Where the light isCHiCO

CHiCO, also known as the singer of the collaboration unit CHiCO with HoneyWorks—a creative collective affectionately nicknamed “Haniwa”—released this song, “Hikari no Arika” (Where the Light Is), in July 2023 as the first single of her solo career.

It’s a motivational anthem that gives you the strength to face forward—highly recommended for anyone feeling discouraged or up against a wall.

You’ll be blown away by CHiCO’s dynamic vocals, which shift seamlessly between gentle, conversational warmth and powerful intensity.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

TOKIDOKIDURDN

DURDN – TOKIDOKI (Official Music Video)

TOKIDOKIDURDN

DURDN is a three-member music group that captivates fans with nostalgic songs that fuse a wide range of genres.

Their 21st digital single, “TOKIDOKI,” is an energizing track whose dance sound elevates EDM through their own original interpretation.

The lyrics, depicting the scene of conveying one’s feelings through a love letter, will likely resonate with many people’s memories of their youth.

It’s a stylish pop tune whose contrast between an old-fashioned theme and modern sound creates an addictive appeal.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

AutomaticDef Tech

Def Tech – Automatic【Official Music Video】

AutomaticDef Tech

Def Tech disbanded in 2007 but later resumed activities.

Strongly associated with summer and the sea, they released this track “Automatic” digitally on Marine Day in 2023.

The title might literally suggest something mechanical, but it conveys the idea that meetings and partings in life come automatically—so let’s go with the flow and enjoy life.

It’s a quintessential Def Tech-style anthem of encouragement.

With its sense of speed, it’s a number you’ll want to listen to in the summer.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem