Latest J-Pop Releases [May 2025]

do ONRIP SLYME

RIP SLYME – Do ON

A feel-good hip-hop track where four MCs trade verses over a high-energy beat.

Released in April 2025, “do ON” made big waves as the first song in nine years to bring all five members of RIP SLYME back together.

Positively expressing the passion everyone has for the things they can’t stop being obsessed with, this song leaves you feeling uplifted.

Add this explosion of their signature style to your playlist!

BEATWurtS

WurtS – BEAT (Official Audio)

A dramatic rock number where fragility and power coexist in exquisite balance.

The shift in tone—from a lyrical introduction led by piano and strings to the thunderous roar of a full band—is masterfully executed, sonically embodying themes like inner conflict and the pursuit of truth.

Written as the theme song for Nippon TV’s Wednesday drama “Love Is Darkness,” the track was released in April 2025.

It garnered major attention starting with its first airplay on J-WAVE’s GURU GURU! segment “GRUUVE BUNCH.” A highly recommended song for anyone looking to delve into the deepest layers of their emotions.

Capsuleaiko

aiko - 'Capsule' music video

A number by aiko where gentleness and heartbreak resonate together.

Written specifically for the TV anime “Apocalypse Hotel,” it opens with delicate piano melodies, then builds as the band and strings come in, beautifully expressing a swell of emotion.

The lyrics carry a wish to lock away memories with a precious person in one’s heart, along with the sorrow of their absence—piercingly poignant.

It might be just the thing to listen to when you want to have a good cry.

Blue Hawaii Lemon≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 3rd Single Title Track “Blue Hawaii Lemon” [MV full]

This ≒JOY release is filled with bittersweet feelings, set to a sound as fresh as a breeze that heralds the arrival of summer.

Released in June 2025, it’s the group’s third single, with Reon Esumi as the center.

The lyrics, which liken summer romance to shaved ice, are absolutely adorable and make you feel like falling in love yourself.

It’s perfect as background music for making memories with friends and loved ones!

A devoted girl.Yuika

A single-minded girl. / 'Yuika' [MV]

This piece sets straightforward feelings of love to a bright band sound.

Released in April 2025 with Ryo Hanai handling the arrangement, it vividly captures a fresh page of youth.

Written back in high school, it carefully and realistically weaves words of inner conflict over unrequited love and unwavering devotion.

There’s plenty here that younger listeners will relate to.

If you’re in the middle of a one-sided crush, give it a listen!

coloring; color scheme; hues; decoration; embellishment; added flair (figurative)ikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “Irodori” Music Video (Odakyu Group corporate commercial song)

It’s a gentle pop tune that portrays the small happiness found in everyday life and the connections between people.

This track is the lead song from the album “Asobi,” released in April 2025, and was selected for the Odakyu Group’s corporate commercial.

Its familiar, catchy melody and heartwarming lyrics make a lasting impression.

Another highlight is the grand choral work featuring choirs from Tokyo University of Agriculture, Seijo University, and more.

It’s a piece we hope you’ll listen to as music that accompanies your daily life, such as during your commute to work or school.

WORK HARDchanmina

WORK HARD

This song, chosen as the theme for the anime “BULLET/BULLET,” is a track by rapper Chanmina, released on April 30, 2025.

It’s an energetic piece that layers solid, resonant vocals over a powerful track.

Dynamically expressing the importance of perseverance and the strength to overcome challenges, it showcases Chanmina’s signature style.

It’s the perfect song to boost your motivation or give you a push when you’re ready to take on something new.