Trending Songs [December 2024]

pedestrian overpassNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Footbridge”

This song by Nogizaka46 is a moving piece themed around life’s choices and taking a step toward the future.

Through the image of the protagonist hesitating over whether to cross a pedestrian bridge in the season of cold, withering winds, it portrays the emotional turmoil of making a decision.

Katsuhiko Sugiyama’s melody and Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrics blend beautifully, resulting in a delicate and touching work.

Released on December 11, 2024, the track features Sakura Endo as center, and among fans it’s been discussed as a potential answer song to “Kikkake.” It’s a perfect song for those standing at a crossroads in life or considering a new challenge.

Challenge the theory of relativityNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46: Objecting to the Theory of Relativity

This song, very characteristic of Nogizaka46, is a fresh work that fuses the urgency of romance with concepts from physics.

Through the theory of relativity, it conveys the intensity of being in love.

The lyric “I want to see you faster than light” is filled with aching yearning.

It’s included on their 37th single, Footbridge, releasing on December 11, with 5th-gen member Hina Okamoto serving as center for the first time.

The music video is out as well, so be sure to check it out! Since this piece portrays romantic feelings from a scientific perspective, it’s recommended both for people who love physics and for those who want to savor pure romantic emotion.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

A bittersweet love song that colors the cherry blossom season.

Released by Hinatazaka46 in January 2025 as their 13th single, with Nao Kosaka as center.

The music video was produced under the theme of a “parade that heralds spring.” The lyrics depict someone looking back at their graduation photos and reminiscing about the person they used to like, resulting in something highly relatable—especially for those who have just graduated from high school.

RootsAKASAKI

[AKASAKI] Roots / Roots (Lyric Video)

Released in December 2024, this song by singer-songwriter AKASAKI features a city pop, retro-tinged soundscape that beautifully highlights AKASAKI’s down-to-earth vocals.

The lyrical theme of “let’s enjoy this moment together” blends wistfulness with warmth, evoking the sense of a fleeting love story.

By the end, it feels like you’ve watched a short drama—an unforgettable track.

Episode XAdo

【Ado】Episode X

Ado’s vocals blend perfectly with the world of the film “Doctor-X: The Movie FINAL.” The song portrays the human inner self—hope and despair, fear and determination—while conveying a powerful will to push forward and overcome them.

Released on December 6, 2024, this is the first collaboration produced by YOASOBI’s Ayase.

With its exhilarating, fast-paced melody, it leaves a strong impression that overlaps with protagonist Michiko Daimon as she faces countless crises.

Singing of growth through setbacks and failures, this track feels like a song that gives a push to anyone embarking on a new challenge.

HelloAee! group

Aぇ! group “Hello” Lyric Video

You’ll be captivated by the exhilarating, fast-paced melody.

Aぇ! groupが歌うこの楽曲は、2025年2月リリース予定のファーストアルバム「D.N.A」のリード曲です。

It’s an impressive rock number featuring an expansive sound woven by strings and guitar.

With a powerful message that helps you rediscover the important things we tend to lose sight of in everyday life—and gives you the courage to take a new step forward—it’s a song that can energize you to face ahead when you’re feeling down.

signpostIMP.

IMP. – Guiding Sign (Official Music Video)

IMP.’s new song, chosen as the ending theme for the drama “Qros no Onna,” is generating buzz.

Featuring lyrics that depict characters in pursuit of scoops and a thrilling, fast-paced sound, the track was released early on November 18, 2024.

It portrays the determination to move forward despite uncertainty, perfectly matching the drama’s atmosphere.

Its catchy, powerful melody leaves an immediate impression.

It’s an ideal song for those chasing the truth or standing at a crossroads in life.