[2026] A roundup of stylish J-POP love songs

CYMBillyrrom

Billyrrom – “CYM”【Official Music Video】

Billyrrom, the music collective drawing attention under the banner of Tokyo Transition Soul.

Released in March 2025, this work was written as the theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “MADDER: I Am the Culprit of That Case.” Using the three primary colors as its motif, it gives voice to an intense longing to be dyed in the other person’s color.

Its slightly dangerous message—wishing to blend together even if it means repainting oneself—will surely stir listeners’ hearts.

Set to a groovy sound, the stylish portrayal of complex emotions wavering at the boundary between self and other stands out.

It’s an urban love song depicting adult romance that’s not just sweet, but tinged with a bit of bittersweetness.

kissORIGINAL LOVE

ORIGINAL LOVE / Kiss

Original Love, who rose to popularity in the ’90s with their stylish sound, are perfectly represented by this work.

Released in November 1993, it was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Otona no Kiss.” Its urban melody, infused with jazz and soul, is layered with Takao Tajima’s sultry vocals, drawing you into an unforgettable world with just one listen.

The lyrics sing of passionate love, but the refined sound shapes it into something chic and sophisticated.

Sexy, yet tinged with a certain sadness—this is a track that evokes the delicate push and pull of adult romance.

Give it a listen with someone special on a moody night.

Like an angel.rikon densetsu

Divorce Legend – Just Like an Angel (Official Music Video)

An evergreen summer tune by Rikon Densetsu that breezily sings of a fleeting summer romance.

Vocalist Ayumu Matsuda’s mellow high-tone voice rings pleasantly over a sound reminiscent of classic pop.

From the lyrics emerge feelings for someone who shines like an angel, encountered in a season that passes in the blink of an eye, and the fragility of that love.

Released in August 2024, the song was also selected as the theme for the TBS Tuesday drama “Taigan no Kaji: This Is My Way of Life!” Recognized by Spotify as one of 2024’s next-generation artists, they deliver a bittersweet yet beautiful love song that will keep you company when you want to bask in memories of summers past.

absorbed; engrossed; infatuated; crazy aboutNEW!BE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Muchuu -Recording Video- (Theme song for Fuji TV Thursday Drama 'Calm by the Waves, A Married Couple's Fine Day')

This song features a warm, gospel-based sound that gently wraps around the flutter of a heart in love.

Its straightforward, pure affection—making you want to call your partner’s name over and over—resonates deeply.

It’s included on BE:FIRST’s single “GRIT,” released in May 2025, and was written as the theme song for the drama “Nami Uraraka ni, Meoto Biyori.” Produced with contributions from SKY-HI, eill, and others, the track portrays a relationship that cherishes a bond beyond words.

It’s a number you’ll want to listen to in those moments when the everyday life you share with your lover feels especially precious.

Let their soothing vocals wash over you as you think of your beloved partner.

A Bouquet of Kisses in the RainImai Miki

A Bouquet of Kisses in the Rain (2025 Remaster)

A dazzling song by Miki Imai that evokes a post-rain rainbow.

Included on the album “retour,” released in August 1990, this track became widely loved as the opening theme for the Yomiuri TV/Nippon TV anime YAWARA!.

Set to a buoyant melody crafted by singer-songwriter KAN, the lyrics express the frustration of not being able to take that final step toward someone you love.

The song features vivid, scene-painting lyrics characteristic of J-pop at the time and a storyline beautifully woven together with the motif of rain.

Imai’s clear, luminous voice brings the thrills of new love to life in vibrant color.

This stylish pop tune is perfect for blowing away rainy-day blues—be sure to enjoy it as a driving soundtrack, too!

Midnight Door ~ Stay With MeMatsubara Miki

"Midnight Door ~ Stay With Me" / Miki Matsubara Official Lyric Video

A sophisticated track with a silky sound that perfectly suits a glittering night.

The story it tells is of unbroken feelings for a former lover.

After a chance reunion in the city, memories of happier days come rushing back in vivid color—the protagonist’s aching wish of “I don’t want to be apart anymore” is so palpable it tightens your chest.

Released in November 1979 as Miki Matsubara’s debut single, this song stands as an emblem of city pop.

Its unfading charm has captivated listeners across generations.

It’s also included on the album POCKET PARK.

On nights when you want to be a little sentimental, why not listen and let it gently accompany the memories of a love you can’t forget?

A Paragraph of LoveHanbureddāzu

A Paragraph of Love

Humbreaders are a rock band that captures youth in down-to-earth words.

Released digitally in January 2026 ahead of the album GALAXY DRIVE, this song was written by vocalist Akira Mutsumuro for a dear friend’s wedding.

The lyrics gently scoop up the feelings that dwell in everyday moments and seep into the listener’s heart.

The warm melody and band ensemble also feel wonderfully comforting.

It’s recommended not only for those about to start a new life with their partner, but also for anyone who wants to rediscover the importance of ordinary days.