[2026] Fast-Rising Music: A Roundup of Trending Songs

The Story of the Wind and MeAdo

The Story of the Wind and Me [Ado]

This piece was written as the theme song for the film The Silent Service: The Great Arctic Sea Battle, released in September 2025.

It drew attention as the first song Hiroji Miyamoto has ever provided to a female artist, and for Mafumafu’s role as arranger.

The lyrics move from everyday scenes—like wind brushing your cheek and the sparkle of the city—to the preciousness of human connection, linking seamlessly with the film’s grand narrative.

It’s a beautiful rock ballad that stirs the heart with the contrast between Miyamoto’s characteristically lyrical melody and Ado’s richly expressive vocals.

ioliteEVE

Iolite – Eve Music Video

A song by Eve, written as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon and set for digital release in October 2025.

Its title is the name of a mineral that means “a stone that shows the way,” and it was created from Eve’s desire—having been familiar with Pokémon since childhood—to deliver music that accompanies the protagonists on their journey.

It portrays the courage to step into questions without clear answers and the sense of solidarity with friends, overflowing with a warmth like a light that illuminates the first step into the unknown.

The soundscape opens up all at once in the chorus, as if the sky were clearing.

It’s a track we hope will be heard by anyone trying to take on something new.

BABYYOASOBI

YOASOBI「BABY」Official Music Video

A heartwarming number by YOASOBI, written as the ending theme for the TV anime “For You in Full Bloom.” Released digitally in January 2026, the song was created based on Yasuko Aoki’s novel “My Dear…….” Its world, depicting the purity of caring for someone and the frustration of feelings left unspoken, resonates deeply when paired with ikura’s clear, translucent vocals.

Ayase’s delicate melodic lines gently cradle the anime’s lingering emotions, leaving listeners with a bittersweet yet warm feeling.

Released following the opening theme, it also drew attention for that, but this one feels like a careful portrayal of the protagonist’s secret love.

It’s a track you’ll want to savor on a quiet night, one that stays close during moments spent thinking of someone important.

FanfareTamaki Kōji

Koji Tamaki “Fanfare” MUSIC VIDEO (Theme song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘The Royal Family’)

Koji Tamaki, a singer-songwriter known as the vocalist of the rock band Anzenchitai and for his versatile talent as an actor.

The single released in November 2025 as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “The Royal Family” is striking for its exhilarating, fast-paced melody and his overwhelming vocal prowess.

Drawing on experiences from his childhood in Hokkaido and likening the figure of a horse to the journey of life, the song offers a warm message to those who, though sometimes hurt, strive to live for what they hold dear.

It’s a powerful pop number whose profound lyrics—reflecting his career and worldview—resonate deeply.

Blue NoteM!LK

M!LK – Aono Oto (Official Music Video)

Haven’t you ever felt a flicker of youth you thought was long gone suddenly start to shine again? This song is a high-energy number carrying M!LK’s warm message that “youth can come back as many times as you want.” It was featured as the theme for the Sea Breeze commercial starring member Hayato Sano and was released in July 2025.

Its fresh, lively arrangement is instantly refreshing.

Give it a listen, and it might become the never-ending soundtrack of youth that accompanies your everyday life.

riceDISH//

DISH// – Rice [Official Video]

This song by DISH//, the band fronted by Takumi Kitamura, spins everyday, unassuming happiness found in daily life into music.

As the title suggests, through the familiar theme of “meals,” it portrays the preciousness of time spent with loved ones and moments of caring for yourself.

Life has its ups and downs—there are times when we reflect on the meaning of happiness, and there are ordinary feelings like simply getting hungry.

That down-to-earth message is sure to resonate with many listeners.

Released digitally in October 2025, the track features lyrics by Takumi Kitamura and composition by To-i Tachibana, Daichi Izumi, and others.

Give it a listen when you’re tired or need a moment to unwind.

GHOSTHey! Say! JUMP

Hey! Say! JUMP – “GHOST” [Official Music Video]

Hey! Say! JUMP’s “GHOST,” digitally released in October 2025, captivates with its stylish sound that fuses strings and electronic tones.

With a unique vibe that blends a dark atmosphere and playful charm, it brilliantly captures the thrill of late-night excitement.

As a Halloween song, it’s perfect as background music for parties with friends.

Dive into the world of cool yet irresistibly endearing ghosts.