Latest Japanese music releases [February 2025]

Toward Where the Sound RingsShota Watanabe

Shota Watanabe “Oto no Naru Hō e” Music Video

It’s a pop number packed with positive messages.

Sung by Shota Watanabe of Snow Man, it generated buzz as his solo track included on Snow Man’s best-of album THE BEST 2020 – 2025, released in January 2025.

The lyrics, which depict shifting emotions as the days of the week pass, are particularly striking.

The way they project a determination to keep moving forward in one’s own way—despite steps backward and forward—really resonates.

The pairing of the refreshing melody with his expansive vocals is also superb.

It’s a song that gives you a gentle push when you’re feeling blue or uncertain.

CHAMPiONSSiM

SiM – CHAMPiONS (Official Music Video) | ALGS Championship

An ambitious work that fuses a loud rock sound with the intense world of battle royale games.

Composed by SiM, it will be released digitally in February 2025 and was written as the official theme song for the esports tournament “Apex Legends Global Series Year 4 Championship.” Its tense, dramatic development is striking, evoking an epic story.

The resolve, loneliness, and relentless drive for victory of players thrown into the battlefield are depicted alongside a heavy, powerful sound.

Recommended for moments when you want to steel your heart before an important match.

BarrierSixTONES

SixTONES – Barrier [YouTube ver.]

A fusion rock track that could be called the essence of SixTONES, expressing an unwavering resolve to protect a loved one with a powerful melody and danceable band sound.

The protagonist’s overflowing devotion is deftly portrayed, making it a perfect fit as the theme song for the film “Ojō to Banken-kun.” Set for release in March 2025, the single will be available in three formats: Limited Edition, Regular Edition, and “M TV Unplugged” Edition.

The coupling tracks include richly expressive new songs, from addictive EDM to chill R&B.

It’s a song that will resonate when you want to deepen a bond with someone special or reaffirm your own feelings.

That’s how it always is.TENSONG

TENSONG 'It's Always Like That, Isn't It?' [Official Music Video]

TENSONG’s track “Itsudatte Sonna Mondaro” was released in February 2025.

Its lyrics, which depict everyday struggles and the ups and downs of life, really hit home.

It’s resonating especially with young people, and there are many posts on social media saying things like “the lyrics hit hard” and “it gives me energy.” If you’re feeling down, this song might help.

Be sure to give it a careful listen!

BURNTHE RAMPAGE

THE RAMPAGE / BURN (MUSIC VIDEO)

Released by THE RAMPAGE in February 2025, this work is an ambitious piece that portrays a strong will to unleash one’s passion and push past limits.

Featured as a track on the album “(R)ENEW,” it also gained attention as the theme song for UHA Mikakuto’s Cororo commercial.

Set to an up-tempo beat that fuses electro and hip-hop, it delivers a message about keeping your inner flame burning.

It’s the perfect song when you want to boost your motivation!