Latest Japanese music releases [February 2025]

Beyond nostalgiaNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Beyond Nostalgia”

An emotional atmosphere flows from this bittersweet mid-tempo ballad themed around graduation.

As a center song for Yuki Yoda, it features a grand arrangement built on piano and strings.

In the multiverse-themed music video, an idol’s life intersects with worlds of alternative possibilities, narratively tracing her path as an artist.

Released as a digital single on February 3, 2025, and followed by the music video on February 11 of the same year, this piece has carved a new chapter in Nogizaka46’s history.

Directed by Seita Yamagishi, the MV also drew attention for its innovative use of Yoda’s first-person perspective.

As an empowering song that resonates with anyone standing at a crossroads in life, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Valentine Showdownnozomi

Valentine Showdown

This song portrays the sweet yet slightly bittersweet feelings of Valentine’s love.

Crafted by Noshi, it perfectly blends a Showa-retro vibe with a modern pop sensibility.

Released in January 2025, it also came out in a sped-up version that caught fire on social media.

Set to an upbeat rhythm, the lyrics express a girl’s feelings as she gives chocolate.

It’s recommended not only for those in love, but also for anyone who wants to enjoy the Valentine’s atmosphere.

Give it a listen and let it give you the courage to confess your feelings.

Love at double speedBoku ga mitakatta aozora

Boku ga Mitakatta Aozora / “Love at Double Speed” Music Video [4K]

The new single “The Blue Sky I Wanted to See,” releasing in March 2025, is a high-energy youth romance song.

Its charm lies in lyrics that capture fresh moments of love, expressing a racing heart and the thrill of budding romance with an up-tempo beat.

Center member Nina Yagi shines in this track, and the highlight is the full-group dance in the music video, which features a blue-themed visual palette.

A graduate of an artists’ academy, Yagi has drawn attention from younger audiences, with her dance videos on social media surpassing 22 million views.

Portraying the excitement and anxieties at the dawn of love, along with a forward-looking resolve, this song is highly recommended for anyone who wants to be honest with their feelings in love.

inferiorTomioka Ai

Ai Tomioka – Inferior (Music Video)

“Inferior,” by singer-songwriter Ai Tomioka, is a piece released in January 2025.

Framing life as a contest, it sings about feeling ‘inferior’ compared to those around you.

Yet it’s by no means a negative song; it carries the message, “Let’s love ourselves just as we are.” With a snappy sound arrangement that highlights Tomioka’s gentle vocals, it’s a heartwarming pop number.

So heavyChiba Yūki

Yuki Chiba — Heavy [Official Music Video]

A track included on Yuki Chiba’s album “STAR,” released in December 2024.

The song carries a somewhat languid, ennui-tinged vibe, with Chiba’s flexible rap ringing out.

It’s solidly cool yet nicely relaxed, and before you know it, you’re unable to escape its world.

It’s hip-hop that only Yuki Chiba could create.

bergamotTomonari Sora

Tomonari Sora – “Bergamot” [Lyric Video]

A captivating piece of urban pop that reflects the loneliness of the city.

Created by Sora Tomonari and released in February 2025.

It blends a city pop foundation with retro-futuristic elements for a stylish finish, complemented by a beautiful, memorable melody.

The lyrics unfold a love story where scent and memory intertwine.

It’s the perfect track for nights when you want to linger in your memories.

joy, anger, sorrow, and pleasureMasuda Takahisa

Takahisa Masuda – Joy, Anger, Sorrow, and Pleasure [Official Music Video]

An ambitious work that portrays the full spectrum of human emotions.

It’s a song by Takahisa Masuda, released in February 2025 as the lead track from the album “Kidoairaku” (Joy, Anger, Sorrow, Pleasure).

From richly expressive a cappella to blisteringly fast rap, its whirlwind structure leaves a strong impression.

The lyrics firmly capture the joy, anger, sadness, and fun we experience as we walk through life.

On days when your mood swings wildly, this track might be just the help you need.