[For BGM or workouts] Fast-tempo, high-BPM songs
Don’t you ever feel like listening to fast-tempo songs—for jogging or driving, when you’re working on something, doing house chores like cleaning or laundry, or when you want to hype things up at karaoke?
Of course, they’re great for boosting your mood, but many people also find that music helps them power through tasks in one go!
In this article, we’ll introduce lots of upbeat, catchy tracks, focusing mainly on popular J-POP.
We’ve picked plenty of trending songs too, so feel free to use this list for karaoke choices or as background music for various occasions!
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[For BGM and workouts] Fast-tempo, high-BPM songs (11–20)
You, the Sheep, and the BlueRADWIMPS
It’s a track from RADWIMPS’ hugely popular sixth album, Zettai Zetsumei, and that distinctive guitar intro really leaves an impression! The BPM is around 160, but the drum beat pulls you deeper and deeper into the song’s pace as you listen, making it a tune that gets you more and more pumped up.
It might be a tough vocal range for the average male singer at karaoke, but if you’re enjoying it as background music while you work, the high tones feel refreshing and pleasant!
LIFEWANIMA
This is “LIFE” by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band that has even performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
In the rock band scene, WANIMA are known for their bursting smiles—almost the group’s “smile representatives.” However, the expressions they show in “LIFE” are cool, highlighting their stylish edge.
If you listen closely to the lyrics, they convey a sense of negativity that reflects the harshness of reality, while singing about what we should do within it.
It’s one of WANIMA’s more intense tracks.
Why not give it a listen?
together; along with; bothWANIMA
The energetic vocals, the soundscape, and those vocals really set my heart ablaze.
It’s a track by WANIMA, a three-piece band from Kumamoto, included on their second single “JUICE UP!!” released in 2016.
That sense of speed—so quintessentially WANIMA.
The powerful sound arrangement feels like waves of sound crashing over you.
In any case, the lyrics carry a message of “just keep moving forward, even if it’s recklessly,” which should especially resonate with the younger generation.
Rusty NailX JAPAN
X JAPAN’s classic “Rusty Nail” kicks off with an impressive synth intro.
Serving as a second chapter to their 1990 release “WEEK END,” the song is packed with melodies and lyrics that recall “WEEK END.” The beautifully flashy, fast-paced X JAPAN sound makes it perfect BGM for work, exercise, or house chores! It won’t just boost your productivity—it’ll also lift your mood so you can tackle tasks feeling great.
The mid-section featuring piano and string-based parts can even offer a refreshing little break.
RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
One of ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s signature songs, “Rewrite,” radiates both power and freshness.
It was used as an opening theme for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist.
Its driving melody makes it perfect as workout BGM! Even if you’re steadily keeping your own pace through a routine, hearing Goto’s powerful vocals in the chorus will make you want to kick it up a gear.
When you’re torn between pushing through or calling it quits, this track is a great pick to give you that little extra strength to keep going!
Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
This razor-sharp sound will get you pumped! It’s a track by the rock band UNISON SQUARE GARDEN, released in 2015 as their 10th single.
It was written specifically as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront.
Crisp melodic lines, a bouncy rhythm, a roaming bass, edgy guitar phrases—every slice of it is delicious.
Among their songs, this one is especially popular: an incredibly addictive funky rock number.
Definitely give it a listen.
[For BGM and workouts] Fast-tempo/BPM tracks (21–30)
airshipYuuri
It’s an emotional cheer song that becomes the driving force to keep on living.
It’s a track by singer-songwriter Yuuri, who made a name for himself with the hit “Dry Flower,” released in 2021.
A clear, refreshing rock number with the sound of acoustic guitar that lingers in your ears.
Yuuri’s strong, grounded vocals really stir your emotions.
The chorus, where the feelings burst open, is truly moving.
Put it on while driving under a wide, blue sky and it’ll feel absolutely amazing.