Trending Music [September 2023]

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.

A fresh breeze is blowing through the music scene right now! In September 2023, new forms of expression that transcend traditional genres and unexpected hits born from social media are changing the way we enjoy music.

From the countless new songs released every day, we’re bringing you tracks that are rapidly gaining popularity at this very moment.

The flow of music changes from moment to moment, but discovering songs that shine right now will surely remain in your heart as special memories.

Trending Music [September 2023] (11–20)

Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI

The Peak

Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI is a four-member co-ed band that has gained popularity for its one-of-a-kind, fantastical sound and lyrics that span a wide range of themes from the intimate to the global.

Their sixth digital-only single, “Saikou Toutatsuten” (Highest Point), was written as the opening theme for the TV anime ONE PIECE.

Its positive and powerful message connects with the anime’s story and heightens the sense of anticipation.

With an ensemble that evokes forward motion and lifts your spirits, it’s a dramatic pop tune.

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Hoshino Takashi

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RikaSIX LOUNGE

SIX LOUNGE 'Rika' from “Northwind” Streaming Studio Session

RikaSIX LOUNGE

SIX LOUNGE is a three-piece rock band steadily gaining popularity in the Japanese rock scene.

“Rika” is a song that was included on their 2016 album Shinonome, released while they were still active in the indie scene.

The track was re-recorded and released in 2023, and its lyrics—interpretable as obsessive love—have been a hot topic on social media.

The song as a whole is crafted as a mid-tempo rock ballad with a pleasant feel, which only makes the madness in the lyrics stand out even more.

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Sarracenia (Prod. Ryosuke “Dr.R” Sakai)SKY-HI

SKY-HI / Sarracenia (Prod. Ryosuke “Dr.R” Sakai) -Music Video-

Sarracenia (Prod. Ryosuke “Dr.R” Sakai)SKY-HI

SKY-HI, a rapper who made his major-label debut as a member of AAA and has also showcased his talents as a singer-songwriter and music producer.

His track “Sarracenia (Prod.

Ryosuke “Dr.R” Sakai),” chosen as the opening theme for the Netflix anime Baki Hanma: The Father vs.

Son Arc, was released as a split single with BE:FIRST.

The lyrics, which tie into the anime’s story, ramp up the energy alongside his high-level rap skills.

It’s a stylish pop tune with an impressive sense of speed in the track.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Honne and tatemaeSexy Zone

Sexy Zone “Honne and Tatemae” (YouTube Ver.)

Honne and tatemaeSexy Zone

“Honne to Tatemae,” chosen as the theme song for the drama Usokon, was released by the idol group Sexy Zone in 2023, with lyrics and composition by Ringo Sheena.

It’s a song that portrays a mature love story, matching the drama’s narrative.

The jazz-based sound combined with their electronic-tinged vocals creates a one-of-a-kind world.

It’s a romantic dance number that captures emotions burdened by secrets that can’t be shared with anyone.

Be sure to listen along with the music video, where you can enjoy their many different expressions.

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PROSkaai

Skaai – PRO (Music Video)

PROSkaai

Skaai, who’s gaining attention as a next-generation rapper.

“PRO” is a track included on his second EP, WE’LL DIE THIS WAY.

The song showcases his own rapping skills and pride as a professional.

At the same time, its sharp disses aimed at rivals are a major highlight.

If you listen while putting yourself in Skaai’s shoes, it might feel pretty cathartic.

Also, don’t miss the music video, where you can enjoy stylish visuals.

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DA BOMBSnow Man

Snow Man「DA BOMB」Music Video

DA BOMBSnow Man

The song starts with a powerful, folk music-like sound right from the intro, then makes a striking transition into a cool rap section.

It’s included on Snow Man’s “Dangerholic,” released in September 2023.

Despite being a B-side, it has garnered major attention—performed at Takizawa Kabuki ZERO FINAL in April 2023 and with its music video trending on YouTube.

Blending folk-inspired elements with strong hip-hop influences, the track delivers a richly layered, highly compelling listening experience.

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Trending Music [September 2023] (21–30)

VenusTele

Tele | Venus – Music Video

VenusTele

A sentimental song from Tele, the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, wrapped in a quintessential guitar-rock vibe.

The lyrics unfold like a story from start to finish, and as you listen, it almost feels like a drama playing out in your mind.

At the same time, there’s room throughout the lyrics for each listener to interpret them in their own way, so it can feel like a passionate love song or a bittersweet breakup song.

I encourage you to read the lyrics as you listen and see how the song resonates with you.

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