Latest J-Pop Releases [May 2025]

finger hairChōkyūmei

finger hair

This work achieves a perfect balance between a dark, wet pop sound and lyrics woven from love and heartache.

Released in May 2025 by the four-piece band Chōkyūmei, it delicately captures the complex emotions and conflicts of romance while drawing on each member’s diverse musical background.

Blending danceable elements with an introspective atmosphere, the sound further deepens the world they established on the album “Surudoi Sasakure” and the EP “LOVE no Kōwa Suijōkiryō.” The band has also contributed to visual media, including “Mikoi,” the opening theme for the FOD drama Mikoi: Kakure Botchitachi, and “Cinnamon,” an insert song for the film Atashino!.

It’s a track recommended for those who cherish bittersweet memories of love or want to sit with music on a quiet night.

The DistanceNaoto Intiraymi

Naoto Inti Raymi “The Distance” Lyric Video

To celebrate the 15th anniversary of his debut, globally active Naoto Inti Raymi released a new song in May 2025—a heartwarming R&B-style mid-tempo ballad themed around long-distance love.

Blending story-rich lyrics that reflect his own experience of working between Japan and Miami with a contemporary sound infused with Afrobeats, the track achieves a beautiful fusion.

The majestic arrangement of a gospel choir and strings further elevates the piece, gently singing about a love that connects across distance.

Dropped about a month after the release of his 11th album, “Intersection,” this soothing song offers comfort to anyone who longs for someone far away.

We’re already looking forward to hearing it performed on the nationwide tour starting in May 2025.

A world that sways around youMarushii

Marcy – The world that sways around you (Official Music Video)

Opening with crisp, refreshing guitar tones, this song—capturing the exhilaration of falling in love—was released in May 2025 as JTB’s nationwide commercial theme.

Created by Marcy, a three-piece band from Fukuoka, it’s a classic love song that poignantly frames the sweet moments spent with a partner.

Within the liberating guitar-rock sound, Ukyo Yoshida’s translucent vocals leave a strong impression, and the relatable, signature Marcy lyrics are another highlight.

The music video features influencer Noa—whose total following exceeds 3.3 million—and, paired with exhilarating footage shot in Kagawa Prefecture, the themes of travel and romance are rendered even more compelling.

Evoking the feel of a summer romance, the comfortable, breezy sound makes it a perfect track for drives and trips with someone special.

Let’s kiss.shounen kizzu boui

Let's kiss.

This track comes from Shonen Kids Boy, an eight-member band known for their poppy, catchy melodies and lively band sound.

Marking their major-label debut, the song portrays the small joys found in everyday life, spun from the authentic perspective of members who all come from the unique background of being working professionals.

It will be released by Nippon Crown on May 21, 2025, with the music video premiering on YouTube the same day at 10:00 p.m.

While rooted in J-pop, the production is captivating for its blend of power and finesse.

It’s a perfect pick for unwinding—whether you’re driving home from work or enjoying a café break with friends.

Make it a love songShio Reira

Reira Shio / Make It a Love Song [Official Lyric Video]

Reira Ushio’s May 2025 single gently portrays the delicate emotions of love, weaving together the tension, anxiety, and tender feelings anyone in love can relate to—resulting in a gem of a track.

The world she expresses through her clear vocal timbre and addictive melody feels like a sweet love story.

Featured on the Sony Music Labels EP “Love Procedures,” the song was also selected as an insert track for ABEMA’s hit show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.

Graduation Edition 2025.” With word choices that resonate strongly with Gen Z and vocals that closely echo the heart of those in love, it’s a song you’ll want to hear in the season of romance.

Building steadily since her major debut EP “No one” in August 2024, her evolving musicality is something you won’t want to take your eyes off.

HEROESNishikawa Takanori

HEROES

Takanori Nishikawa has released a full-fledged rock tune that fuses a high-velocity band sound with an emotional melody.

The song was composed by Sojiro Oki and arranged by seasoned producer Seiji Kameda.

With a powerful message, it’s a track brimming with courage and hope.

Released in May 2025 as his seventh solo single, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “A Middle-Aged Man from the Countryside Becomes a Sword Saint.” The single comes in two editions: a regular edition and a limited-time production edition.

The regular edition includes one of eight random trading cards, while the limited-time production edition features a Blu-ray and a digipak with newly drawn artwork.

It’s an ambitious release recommended not only for anime fans but also for music listeners who love band-driven sounds.

PredatorAKASAKI

[AKASAKI] Predator (Lyric Video)

A track by the young singer-songwriter AKASAKI that fuses electronic sounds with rock elements into a dark-pop style, creating a distinctive atmosphere where tension and momentum coexist.

With themes of inner conflict, desire, and the strength to confront them, this striking work is an ambitious piece that showcases the expanding range of his expression.

Released in May 2025, it vividly captures the sensibilities of today’s youth through meticulously crafted production and a resonant vocal performance, making it a perfect song for those who want to face their innermost emotions.