Latest J-Pop Releases [July 2025]

Life Questtakane no nadeshiko

[MV] Life Quest / Takamine no Nadeshiko [HoneyWorks]

This is a song by Takane no Nadeshiko that was chosen as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s drama “Banshaku no Ryuugi 4: Summer Edition.” Released in July 2025, it’s the fourth installment in a sequence of five consecutive digital releases.

The lyrics liken life to a game, conveying a positive message that even trials become spices for growth—perfectly matching the drama’s worldview of treating yourself kindly at the end of the day.

In the music video, the members play office workers, showing how they soothe work fatigue by spending fun moments with friends.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you need energy for tomorrow!

HiraethKano

Kano “Hiraeth” Music Video

This is a song by Kano, chosen as the theme song for the mystery adventure game “Sofia, in Exchange for Lies,” set to be released in July 2025.

As if reflecting the game’s mysterious worldview, a grand yet somehow heartrending melody unfolds.

The protagonist’s anguished longing to uncover the truth hidden behind lies is conveyed through Kano’s clear, whisper-like vocals.

Her voice delicately paints a nostalgia for what’s lost, tightening your chest.

It might be perfect for a quiet night, when you want to linger in the afterglow of a mysterious story.

blacknails feat. MERI(sic)boy

(sic)boy – blacknails feat. MERI (Prod. KM)

This is a fiercely passionate track by (sic)boy that fuses loud, noisy guitars with hard-edged hip-hop beats! Released in June 2025, it serves as the theme song for his headlining event held in August of the same year.

The lyrics, which liken clumsily peeling nail polish to the struggle and wounds of fighting on in society, pierce the listener’s heart.

The chemistry with featured up-and-coming artist MERI is also outstanding, adding vivid color and depth to the song.

When you’re cowering before an invisible enemy, listening to this track will set your indomitable spirit ablaze!

Just Romantic!A.B.C-Z

A.B.C-Z / Just Romantic! (Music Video)

A breathtaking dance music video featuring a total of 20 dancers is guaranteed to capture viewers’ hearts! It’s a piece included on A.B.C-Z’s EP “ROMANTIC!”, set for release in June 2025.

Set against a neon-lit cityscape, the song portrays the dramatic rush of excitement at the start of a romance.

Its high-energy dance sound paired with a sweet yet slightly bittersweet story is sure to make your heart skip a beat.

Hear it on a nighttime drive, and everyday life will start to feel like a scene from a movie.

It’s the perfect track for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a romantic world.

A Little SpoonfulCUTIE STREET

A Little Spoonful

This is a CUTIE STREET song that was unveiled at the Toyosu PIT concert in February 2025 and eagerly awaited by fans.

After an advance digital release in June 2025, it was included on the single “Can’t Stop at the Cue!/Chikyuu Make-Up Keikaku.” The song captures the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love—trying new hairstyles and outfits to catch the attention of someone you like, worrying about how to get your feelings across—set to a fast-paced, exhilarating melody.

Many listeners will likely see their own experiences reflected in the earnest protagonist.

MINEHOKUTO

HOKUTO – MINE (Official Music Video)

A chill love song that straightforwardly sings about being in love.

Released in June 2025 under HOKUTO, the solo project of Hokuto Yoshino, vocalist of THE RAMPAGE.

Like a love letter to someone special, it expresses a single-minded feeling that “there’s no one else like you.” With R&B sounds and vocals that linger pleasantly in your ears, it fills your heart with the sweet pangs of young love.

Why not listen while thinking of someone important to you?

Reckless LoveIMP.

Reckless Love

This is a track by IMP.

that portrays a burning passion and the accompanying heartache.

Over a laid-back sound, it expresses the perilous feeling of getting completely drawn into someone.

You can’t help but feel your own heart race as their emotions spin out of control.

Included on the single “Cheek to Cheek,” released in June 2025.

Listen to it when you’re swayed by the push and pull of romance, and you’ll find yourself deeply resonating with its world.