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

next toMarushii

Marcy – Next to You (Official Music Video)

Marcy is a three-piece rock band from Fukuoka.

This song was written as an answer to “Love Song,” released in September 2023.

Carried by gentle vocals, it traces the protagonist’s feelings as they come to realize the true nature of love through the gestures and expressions of the precious person by their side each day.

A gem of a love song from a group that has earned strong support, especially among Gen Z.

It’s a track to play when you want to reaffirm your gratitude to your partner or spend a quiet, cherished moment with someone important.

rosehip teaYuika

Rosehip Tea / “Yuika” [Music Video]

Released in September 2025, the song “Rosehip Tea” was written as the opening theme for the TV drama “You’re Special to Me.” It’s a work with a pure, fresh band sound that feels delightful.

The lyrics portray the subtle emotions of a contrary protagonist who pretends to dislike sweet things but finds themselves recognizing their budding feelings—something that may resonate with anyone timid about love.

It’s a sweet-and-tart pop tune that carries those hard-to-express, honest feelings on a breezy melody.

HAZEKroi

#Kroi – HAZE [Official Video] #Kowloon Generic Romance

This song carries a languid, somehow nostalgic atmosphere.

It’s a track by the band Kroi, released in August 2025, and it was chosen as the theme song for the live-action film “Kowloon Generic Romance.” The work portrays a love story that wanders the borderland between reality and dreams, as someone thinks of a precious person within a haze of memories.

The frustration of an elusive relationship, and the aching feeling of not wanting to let go, seep into the heart through the languid vocals and nostalgic sound.

Put it on during a night when you want to indulge in a sentimental mood.