Latest J-Pop Releases [July 2025]

short nightnakigoto

Nakigoto / 'Short Night' (Drama film 'Ayaka-chan Is in Love with Senior Hiroko: 2nd Stage' Ending Theme Song) [Music Video]

This song weaves together the sweltering sleepless nights of summer with a longing to spend more time with someone you love.

Created by the band Nakigoto, it’s included on their major-label debut EP “Magic Hour,” released in July 2025.

It was selected as the theme song for MBS’s Drama Tokku series “Ayaka-chan Is in Love with Senior Hiroko: 2nd Stage.” The lyrics distill a pure wish—“I want this moment to last forever”—which serves not only as an expression of romantic feeling, but also as a message from the two members of Nakigoto, who hope that the precious time with their fans can be eternal.

Those layered lyrics just might bring a tear to your eye.

doppelgängerfantomu shiitaa

PHANTOM SIDA “Look-alike” (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

What would you do if a counterfeit showed up and copied your entire way of life? This song by Phantom Sita is a dark pop track packed with searing anger toward someone who threatens your very existence, and a heartbreaking cry of “Don’t interfere with my life that’s mine alone!” It’s included on the single “Suki, Kirai,” released in July 2025.

Dive into this eerie yet uplifting, strangely captivating music!

ChaO!Kōda Kumi

Kumi Koda - 'ChaO!' (Official Music Video)

This is a song Kumi Koda wrote specifically as the theme for the animated feature film “ChaO.” To align with the grand love story that transcends species—loosely based on The Little Mermaid—Koda reportedly composed it after watching the visuals.

A pop dance beat fuses with an emotional melodic line to create a refreshing sonic world.

Many listeners will likely find their hearts stirred by the lyrics, which portray love that supports the other person even in difficult times.

The track will be included on the EP “De-CODE,” slated for release in August 2025.

It’s sure to resonate deeply with anyone who cherishes someone with single-minded devotion.

In progress (experiment ongoing)Shiina Ringo

Ringo Sheena – In Experiment

This song carries a powerful message from Ringo Sheena: “Let’s use ourselves as test subjects and explore how to live better!” Released in July 2025 as the campaign song for Shiseido Ultimune, it resonates perfectly with the campaign’s ethos of breaking free from every constraint.

Set to an energetic rock sound, it’s an anthem to freely experimenting without fear of failure.

When you’re held back by others’ eyes or conventional wisdom and can’t take the first step, listening to this track will spark the motivation to say, “Let’s just try it.”

CALLING†Higuchi Kaede

Kaede Higuchi “CALLING†” Music Video [TV Anime “I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince So I Can Spend My Time Perfecting My Magic Season 2” Opening Theme]

This is Kaede Higuchi’s 5th single, set for release in August 2025, chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince, So I’ll Master Magic at My Leisure Season 2.” This work is a fast-paced rock number that sings of hope: even in despair, if you keep praying, a path will open.

The theme of “hope,” as described by Kaede Higuchi herself, and the song’s messaging overlap with the protagonist’s journey.

It’s a track that can make your heart surge with courage when you need strength to face difficulties.