Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2025]

YOU GOTTA RUNL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc～en～Ciel「YOU GOTTA RUN」-Music Clip-

A heart-stirring new track has arrived! This song by L’Arc~en~Ciel is an uptempo rock number themed around challenge and self-transcendence.

Its blend of catchy melodies and hard-hitting sound will get listeners’ hearts racing.

It’s also used as the opening theme for the anime BEYBLADE X, and its lyrics mirror the protagonists’ growth, sure to encourage children’s dreams and hopes.

Set for release in January 2025, this song delivers a powerful message that pushes people forward as they take on new challenges.

If you’re going to quit, now’s the time.MOROHA

YAMERUNARA IMADA

This is a candid message song that lays bare the conflict and resolve of pursuing a dream.

It’s a track by MOROHA, released digitally in December 2024.

As their final song before going on hiatus, it drew a lot of attention.

Written around the time of their Nippon Budokan performance, the piece intertwines a burning passion for music with doubts about continuing down that path.

As you listen, you’ll naturally find yourself contemplating their lives.

It’s a song that may resonate not only with people in the music world, but with anyone who keeps challenging themselves.

Lie Rai Lie RaiMYERA

MYERA “Lie ライ Lie ライ” Official Music Video

A song that resonates deep in your heart and shakes your soul.

Set to be released as MYERA’s debut single in January 2025.

Riding a powerful beat, it sings of the resolve to confront a world of illusion, and as you listen, courage wells up inside you.

With the concept of “STAY REAL,” it’s packed with the feelings of five people pursuing their true selves.

It might make you want to face the real you within.

Year NMili

Mili – Year N / anime “Promise of Wizard” Opening Theme

A track that captivates with its refined musicality and poetic lyrics.

Delicately depicting the passage of time and the changes in life, it was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Promise of Wizard” starting in January 2025.

You’ll be drawn to its otherworldly soundscape and Cassie Wei’s translucent vocals.

The ethereal arrangement—interweaving strings, piano, and mandolin—is superb.

Be sure to savor this story-rich song.

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

“Darling” is a song by the rock band Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, released in January 2025.

It was written as the theme song for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18 Festival.” Centered on themes of self-identity and love, it reflects the struggles and growth of youth.

Its appeal lies in a rich sound arrangement that incorporates pop-rock elements.

On the program, it was performed together with 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation, creating a major buzz.

It’s an uplifting song that resonates with everyone.

TEMARINinomae Ina’nis

TEMARI

This track captivates with its fantastical atmosphere and deep emotional expression.

Released in December 2024, it showcases VTuber Ninomae Ina’nis’s unique personality.

Her clear vocals leave a strong impression, and the sound arrangement—combining dramatic flair with delicate nuances—lingers in the ear.

The lyrics evoke a dark-fantasy world, and the result is a grand, oriental-tinged number.

Be sure to add it to your playlist.

Puppets Can’t Control YouONE OK ROCK

Puppets Can’t Control You

A powerful track from the popular rock band ONE OK ROCK! Centered on themes of society’s injustices and personal freedom, this song fuses emotional vocals with a dynamic sound.

It was surprise-released in January 2025 and is included on the album “DETOX,” out in February.

The track was also chosen as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Gokami-sensei.” Showcasing Taka’s overwhelming vocal prowess and the band’s fiery performance, this piece shines.

The lyrics, which question modern society, deeply resonate with listeners.

A must-listen for anyone who wants to stay true to themselves.