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

PuzzleIkuta Rira

Rira Ikuta “Puzzle” Official Music Video

Released in January 2026 as the theme song for ABEMA’s popular dating show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita” (“Today, I Fell in Love”) series, this track marks the artist’s fourth song written specifically for the program.

Featuring arrangements by Carlos K., its light, warm sound creates an uplifting feeling that hints at the beginning of love.

Many listeners will likely relate to the lyrics that portray the gradual shaping of romantic feelings.

It’s a refreshing pop tune perfect not only for those struggling with love, but also for anyone who wants a boost of positivity in everyday life.

Glitter gradienturashimasakatasen

Lame Gradient / Urashimasakatasen

This track stands out for its lyrics that portray the deepening closeness with a loved one, layered bit by bit like glitter.

Released in January 2026, it was written as the theme song for the live-action drama “Cosmetic Playlover Season 2.” The harmonies woven by the four members, paired with the crystal-clear melody, leave a pleasantly lingering afterglow.

Additionally, with Yuki Tsujimura participating in the production, the sound achieves a balance of catchiness and freshness.

It’s a pop tune brimming with the sparkle of romance.

AlignIMP.

Align

Released in December 2025 as a track on the second album “MAGenter,” this song is a mysterious love ballad dominated by strings.

The tension and shading created by the string instruments evoke images of the moon, stars, and night, beautifully portraying the way two people are drawn together in romance.

During recording, the direction was to “sing as you are,” resulting in a free and joyful atmosphere in the studio.

It’s a perfect fit for those who want to experience a mature love story.

Lovely!!rikon densetsu

Divorce Legend – Lovely!! (Official Music Video)

A two-piece band consisting of vocalist Ayumu Matsuda and guitarist Jun Beppu, Rikon Densetsu delivers a number overflowing with bittersweet emotion.

Set to a city pop–tinged sound where sparkle and shadow coexist, it portrays complex feelings like lingering attachment and possessiveness toward someone who seems about to slip away.

The dramatic world woven by words like “twilight” and “long night” tightens your chest before you know it.

Written as the ending theme for the TV anime High School! Kimengumi airing from January 2026, the track was released digitally ahead of the broadcast that same month.

Their uniquely nostalgic-yet-new groove, evoking the “temperature of the night,” is sure to gently nestle up to the listener’s heart.

Perfect for unwinding at the end of the day or as BGM for a nighttime drive—give it a listen.

My PrincessROIROM

ROIROM ‘My Princess’ Music Video

This is a love song, the second pre-debut release from ROIROM, the duo of Hiromu Honda and Michi Hamakawa.

Set against a Christmas backdrop, the lyrics are memorable for expressing feelings toward an irreplaceable person.

Winter motifs like candlelight and snowy scenery are woven throughout, creating a romantic world.

Sonically, warm melodies blend with a stylish beat, resulting in contemporary pop that avoids leaning too sweet.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side on a winter night spent with someone special.

Goodbye! I love you!Seiryūjin 25

Ryujin Sei 25 – GOOD BYE! I love you!

Released as a livestream on the day of their final show in December 2025, this work is an emotional pop tune that shouts overflowing love with all its might while facing the reality of their disbandment.

The blend of gratitude and joy amid the sorrow of farewell is sure to set listeners’ hearts ablaze.

Its glamorous, mature sound arrangement is another highlight.

A masterpiece that could be called the culmination of their career, where euphoria and bittersweetness coexist.

It is also included on their 2026 album “GOODBYE.”

LAVALAVANumber_i

Number_i – LAVALAVA (Official Visualizer)

A track included on No.Ⅱ (Deluxe), released on December 1, 2025.

Reuniting with the production team behind the debut single GOAT, this song pairs a fast-paced, driving beat with sweet vocals—a perfect drive tune.

Set inside the intimate space of a car speeding down the highway at night, it captures the unmistakable warmth of someone special sitting beside you.

While portraying the realities of urban life, it creates a romantic atmosphere.

It’s top-tier J-POP that blends edge and sweetness—something you’ll want to play during moments with your lover.