Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2026]

Mental Rentalmurasaki ima

Murasaki Ima – Mental Rental (Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Shiin with a distinctive husky voice has been gaining support mainly on social media.

Mental Rental, which began streaming in January 2026, is a track whose addictive rhythm and wordplay leave a powerful impression.

Written specifically as the ending theme for the first cour of the anime Scum of the Brave, the song depicts facing oneself and searching for identity.

It’s a pop tune that will likely resonate deeply with those who feel out of place in modern society.

XVIRinu

「　XVI　」

Rinu, a singer who represents the color red as a member of Strawberry Prince (SutoPuri) and is active across voice acting, livestreaming, and more.

Released on YouTube with its music video on January 19, 2026, this original track was created as a symbol of the team formed through the streaming project “MADTOWN.” It also drew attention for being produced by Root, also from SutoPuri, and the streamer Zuzu.

With its dark atmosphere and exhilarating, fast-paced sound, it’s an emotional upper-tune that sets your heart ablaze.

Sensation SeasonSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda “Sensation Season”

Masaki Suda is an artist who has secured a solid position as an actor while continuously expressing his unique sensibility through music.

The lead track “Sensation Season” from his concept EP “SENSATION CIRCLE,” released in January 2026, is striking for its fast-paced, emotional band sound.

The lyrics, which weave thoughts for a loved one alongside images of falling snow, reveal different shades with each listen and resonate deep within the heart.

It’s a song where strength and warmth coexist—one you’ll want to hear when you’re worn out by hectic days or when you want to reconnect with your own feelings.

Canaria feat. Ryoko ShinoharaSuzuki Masayuki

Masayuki Suzuki feat. Ryoko Shinohara “Canaria” Music Video

After his work with Rats & Star, singer Masayuki Suzuki has continued to shine on the front lines for many years.

Released in January 2026, Canaria is a beautiful duet featuring Ryoko Shinohara.

Chosen as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama Punch-Drunk Woman: XX Days Until Escape, the track features a heartrending melody by Ikimonogakari’s Yoshiki Mizuno and moving harmonies from the two vocalists.

The lyrics, which depict the feeling of breaking free from the rules that bind you, also resonate—making it a song that gives you courage when you’re ready to take a new step forward.

The color of happinessOnda Masanori

The color of happiness

Masamori Onda, a singer-songwriter who gained attention after posting on TikTok, released “The Color of Happiness.” It’s a ballad that blends tenderness with heartbreak, expressing lingering feelings for a former lover.

The song was chosen as the ending theme for the drama “Kimbap and Onigiri: Two Lovers Alike Yet Different.” There’s also a moving backstory: Onda reworked a chorus he originally wrote at 19, completing it for the first time in about three and a half years.

It’s a perfect track for those freshly heartbroken, those who can’t quite let go, or anyone who wants to reflect on a past love.

LiberaSuda Keina

Keina Suda – Libera (Music Video)

Keina Suda, who enjoys immense popularity not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a Vocaloid producer, released this track in January 2026.

It was written as the opening theme for the drama “We’re the Bad Barbers.” The sharp guitar riffs intertwine with Suda’s distinctive melodic lines to create an addictive, heart-stirring effect.

Its buoyant groove also makes you want to move your body, which is part of its appeal.

It’s the perfect rock number for blowing away a hazy mood or when you’re craving a jolt of excitement.

LOVE 2000tsuru and kame

Tsuru and Kame “LOVE 2000” Official Music Video

Formed by Jutaro Yamanaka of M!LK and Aloha Takamatsu of Chotokkyu, who co-star in the film “Pure Love, Bring It On!”, Tsuru and Kame is a limited-time unit.

Released on January 15, 2026, this track is an upbeat tune created as the movie’s theme song.

Boldly covering hitomi’s smash hit from 2000, the arrangement brilliantly fuses the original’s forward-looking power with a contemporary dance beat.

The contrasting personas they play in the film—honor student and rebel—intertwine in their vocals and performance to deliver a striking impact on listeners.

It’s a danceable pop number perfect not only for amping up excitement ahead of the film’s release, but also for times when you want to recharge with positive energy.