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

wakashi・sawagashi・Ska PunkNEW!Hatsuboshi Gakuen

Hatsuboshi Gakuen “Wakashi, Sawagashi, Ska Punk” Official Music Video (HATSUBOSHI GAKUEN – Wakashi, Sawagashi, SKA PUNK)

Set at First Star Academy, the stage of the game “Gakuen Idolmaster,” where uniquely talented idol trainees gather.

2026年2月にリリースされた「和菓子・騒菓子・スカパンク」は、スカのリズムとパンクの猛スピードなドライブを融合させたハイエナジーなトラックです。

Its lively performance, resounding with brass, and a sing-along-ready melody will lift your spirits just by listening.

It’s an energetic party tune that lets you soak in a sun-hot festive vibe with your whole body.

As Love SaysNEW!Nichiyoubi no Mezonde

As Love Says (from “Akira Momose’s First Love in Ruins.”) / Sunday no Maisondé

“As Love Commands” is a song released in February 2026, created based on Shinta Harukawa’s manga “Akira Momose’s First Love in Ruins.” Tomoya Tabuchi of UNISON SQUARE GARDEN wrote and composed the song, with arrangement by Akita Horie.

Vocalist Rei’s translucent voice vividly conveys the frustration of love and the exhilaration of spring, while the driving band sound sets your heart racing.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to feel the sparkle of youth!

déjà vuNEW!Shio Reira

Reira Shio / déjà vu [Official Music Video]

Released in February 2026, this track serves as the lead song symbolizing the second EP “HB2U,” a collection of pieces based on Reiira Ushio’s real-life experiences.

It portrays the emotional journey toward self-affirmation while confronting inner conflicts and past wounds.

With dynamic arrangements by Kazuma Nagasawa and clear, powerful vocals, it’s a must-listen.

When you’re struggling with self-confidence or wishing to change on a sleepless night, why not listen closely?

Head over heelsNEW!raisan

Praise – Head over heels

Comedian duo Laland’s Saaya performs vocals under the name CLR for the band Raisan, a supergroup featuring skilled musicians including Enon Kawatani.

“Horeta Hareta,” included on the mini-album “Killer Pass” released digitally in February 2026, is a track that had already been performed at live shows and festivals in 2025 and was generating buzz.

It features a sound reminiscent of ’80s disco kayō (Japanese pop) and lyrics that affirm the exhilaration of love.

It’s a groovy pop tune that makes you want to hit the town in step with the rhythm.

Miss youNEW!shaitoopu

Shytoepe – Miss You (Official Music Video)

Shai Tope is a three-piece rock band that drew attention with Rendezvous, which surpassed 300 million total streams, and whose slice-of-life lyrics resonate with young listeners.

Released as a single in February 2026, this newly written track was chosen as the ending theme for season 2 of the TV anime My Hero Academia: Vigilantes.

Its lyrics depict a relationship in which someone precious propels you forward, kindling a warm flame in the hearts of those who, despite their doubts and weaknesses, are trying to take a step ahead.

With So Sasaki’s emotional vocals and the band’s palpable intensity, it’s a rock tune that stirs the heart and fills you with courage the more you listen.

IDOLICNakajima Kento

Kento Nakajima "IDOLIC" Music Video

A track infused with the resolve to reexamine what it means to be an idol and to keep evolving has become a hot topic.

Known by the nickname Kenty, Kento Nakajima showcases multifaceted talent as an actor and TV personality.

This work is his second single, released in October 2025, created as a “theme song for life.” He wrote the lyrics himself, singing with a strong will to update his image.

It’s a powerful dance tune that encourages those who want to surpass their past selves.

I don’t need it.NEW!Sakanakushon

I don't need it.

This rock number features lyrics that reveal true feelings at odds with the words themselves, piercing the heart over a danceable beat.

Created by Sakanaction, it will be released digitally in February 2026.

It was written as the theme song for the drama “Kochira Yobi Jieieiyu Ho?!” Ichiro Yamaguchi, the band’s vocalist, produced it in response to a request from Koji Kato, a senior from his hometown.

Even while rejecting, you can’t help but want it… Many people will probably relate to that kind of contradictory emotion.

It’s perfect as late-night driving BGM.