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

Recontinueretororiron

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Retro Riron is a band formed by graduates of Senzoku Gakuen College of Music, drawing attention with their solid musicianship and genre-defying sound.

Released in advance in January 2026, this track serves as the lead single from their eagerly awaited first full-length album, “Collection Alone.” Its message—that even while carrying doubt and vulnerability, it’s vital to keep walking your own path—stirs the listener’s heart.

The arrangement features a chorus sung by all members, evoking the sense of unity you can imagine at their live shows.

The song has become a hot topic, selected for power play on around 30 radio stations nationwide.

It’s a powerful anthem for anyone who wants to change their present situation.

Star WishSTARGLOW

STARGLOW / Star Wish -Official Audio-

STARGLOW is a dance and vocal group born from BMSG’s audition “THE LAST PIECE.” The title track of their debut single, released in January 2026, features a sound that blends exhilarating anticipation with a touch of wistfulness, hinting at the journey ahead.

With SKY-HI participating in the production, the song fuses Western grooves with J-pop sensibilities, leaving a sophisticated resonance that lingers in your ears.

Following their pre-debut track “Moonchaser,” this long-awaited release has finally arrived.

It’s a song that will give you a push when you’re ready to take the first step toward your dreams and goals—be sure to give it a listen.

Speak of the Devil feat. MasatoSurvive Said The Prophet

Speak of the Devil feat. Masato / Music Video | Survive Said The Prophet

Survive Said The Prophet is a rock band that earns wide support with a broad musical palette centered on loud rock.

Released digitally on January 17, 2026, this track drew major attention for featuring coldrain’s Masato as a guest.

With one of the most massive sounds in the band’s history, the explosive shouts traded between Yosh and Masato create a development that shakes the listener to the core.

The song was produced as the ending theme for the second cour of the anime Fire Force Season 3, and it carries a heartfelt message that digs into the story’s core.

You can feel the strong will to overcome conflict and pain.

It’s a track you’ll want to play when you need to fire yourself up or stoke that burning passion.

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.

IBUMP OF CHICKEN

My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON ED Creditless Video / ED Theme: “I” by BUMP OF CHICKEN / MHA ED

Written as the ending theme for the TV anime My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON, this song was released in October 2025.

BUMP OF CHICKEN, whose members are all fans of MHA, crafted a track that respects the world of the series while infusing it with their own interpretation.

Within its exhilarating, fast-paced sound, hope and urgency intersect, embedding themes that mirror the protagonists’ conflicts and choices.

It’s a song that gives courage to everyone who, despite their struggles, is trying to move forward.

AgainMr.Children

Mr.Children「Again」Lyric Video

“Again,” which is also included on the March 2026 album Birth Cry, is a track written specifically as the theme song for the drama Reboot.

The rich, weighty band sound—bolstered by piano and strings—really hits you in the chest.

Its lyrics, depicting the resolve to start walking forward again despite carrying one’s wounds, will likely give courage to anyone facing difficult circumstances.

A powerful rock tune where a clear light of hope shines through its earnest resonance.

Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)Reiko

REIKO ‘Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)’ Music Video

After participating in SKY-HI’s audition “THE FIRST,” REIKO has honed her craft as a solo artist under BMSG.

Released digitally on January 12, 2026, “Lullaby (Prod.

ALYSA)” was selected as the January ending theme for the TV program “Hiruobi.” Produced by ALYSA, the track blends a nostalgic band sound with piano to create a warm yet wistful atmosphere.

The lyrics, which dwell on lingering feelings for a former lover, delicately portray regret and prayers for time that can’t be reclaimed.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side on sleepless nights when memories resurface.

With a tender yet resolute vocal delivery that resonates deeply, it’s a superb ballad number.