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

IRIS OUTYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – IRIS OUT (76th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen)

Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who continues to lead the scene with his distinctive worldview and overwhelming sense of style.

This track, written as the theme song for the film Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc, released in September 2025, has drawn attention for reuniting with MAPPA following KICK BACK.

True to the anecdote that it was created while glaring at pages depicting the original characters, its aggressive sound and driving momentum, perfect for intense battle scenes, are sure to stir listeners’ emotions.

The powerful rhythms that sync with the story’s developments have an addictive quality that’s impossible to forget after a single listen.

It’s a high-energy number especially recommended for those seeking a rock-infused rush.

oarYorushika

Yorushika – Kai (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Yorushika is a musical duo that paints a unique world with literary storytelling and a translucent singing voice.

Centered on the theme of an answer to anger, this song is the track that closes out the latter part of the album “Second Person,” released in March 2026.

Without quoting from literature, it expresses emotion and the will to move forward in their own words.

The gentle tone of the acoustic guitar and breath-inflected vocal work create a resonant finish.

Give it a careful listen when you’re in an introspective mood.

charmer / smooth talkerNEW!Kuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Hitotatarashi [Anime Lyric Video]

Keisuke Kuwata, who has long been active as the frontman of Southern All Stars, one of Japan’s most iconic rock bands.

In the 48th year since his debut, this work marks his first fully original song written for an anime.

It’s a track that layers the world of rakugo—where words captivate audiences—over the expressive power of pop music.

A vibrant beat infused with elements of Group Sounds and folk music colors the protagonist’s powerful drive to move forward.

Scheduled for release as a single in June 2026, it has been crafted as the opening theme for the TV anime “Akane-banashi,” and has already become a hot topic.

It’s a pop tune packed with fiery fighting spirit and a festive vibe—one you won’t want to miss this year.

DogsNEW!Hitsuji Bungaku

Dogs

Hitsujibungaku is a three-piece band drawing attention in Japan and abroad for their distinctive sense of floating and powerful alternative rock sound.

Dogs, a digital single written as the theme song for the Netflix series “The Sins of Kujo” and released in March 2026, is marked by fiercely distorted guitars and deep, resonant vocals.

In tune with the drama’s worldview, which portrays the darkness of society and the shadowy sides of humanity, its lyrics pierce the listener’s heart with a strong will to decide one’s own life.

It’s a rock tune brimming with a raw, tingling tension.

USOTSUKINEW!STARGLOW

STARGLOW / USOTSUKI -Official Audio-

From an audition emerged the dance and vocal group STARGLOW.

Their second single, “USOTSUKI,” released digitally in March 2026 and on CD in April, leaves a lasting impression with the contrast between its exhilarating beat and lyrics steeped in wistful regret.

It conveys the loss of a relationship and the wish to turn back time, resulting in a highly relatable track.

The song was chosen as the tie-in for the web commercial “The star is this ‘Shiratama Dewy Skin’” for Vaseline’s “Gluta Hya Body Lotion.”

For real☆Why though?☆I dunno, thoughNEW!Monaki

For real☆ Why though?☆ I dunno though (Preview)

Monaki is a four-member male kayō chorus group produced by Kazuyoshi Sakai, the leader of Junretsu.

This is their major-label debut single, released in April 2026.

The title, packed with Kansai-dialect phrases, makes a striking impact, and the irresistibly catchy melody sticks in your head after just one listen.

It brilliantly fuses the familiar warmth of Showa-era kayōkyoku with call-and-response and choreography designed to spread easily on modern social media.

Even before their debut, dance videos on TikTok went viral, and related clips amassed over 500 million views, generating an incredible buzz.

It’s an uplifting dance-kayō track that’s perfect for getting everyone hyped together or enjoying a sense of unity at karaoke.

GOOD TOGETHERNEW!timelesz

timelesz ｢GOOD TOGETHER｣ (YouTube Ver.)

This dance-pop tune features a sense of speed with vibrant brass and synthesizer tones intertwining brilliantly.

It’s a track by the idol group timelesz, serving as the opening song of their April 2026 album “MOMENTUM.” Its appeal lies in a positive theme that expresses the happiness of being with someone you love and the joy that overflows.

Filled with forward-looking energy, it’s perfect for situations like going on a drive with someone special or lifting your mood on a weekend morning.