Gen Z listeners, take note! Great songs that color the J-pop scene
The definition of a good song differs from person to person, doesn’t it?
Songs about someone special, ones that give you a push, or those that depict strong determination—all of these could be considered good songs, but it likely depends on the listener’s feelings and situation.
So this time, we’ve focused on Gen Z listeners and compiled a list under the keyword “good songs.”
They’re all great tracks, so we hope not only Gen Z but listeners of all ages will enjoy them.
Gen Z listeners, take note! “Great Songs” Coloring the J-POP Scene (1–10)
FateOfisharu Higedan Dism
A passionate cheer for people devoting themselves to their dreams, this song by the four-piece piano pop band Official HIGE DANDism was chosen in July 2019 as the “2019 ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song / ‘Netto Koshien’ theme song,” and it also became the train arrival melody at Hanshin Railway’s Koshien Station.
Its music video, filmed in New York, drew considerable attention as well.
With lyrics that stand by everyone who strives—starting with high school baseball players—the song resonates deeply with those facing setbacks or anxiety.
It’s a track that gives you the courage to confront any hardship, and one we especially hope Gen Z listeners will hear.
HarukaYOASOBI
A unique story told from the perspective of a mug, depicting a girl’s growth.
Based on Osamu Suzuki’s novel Tsuki Ōji and released by YOASOBI in December 2020, it’s a graduation song.
It was also used as the CM song for Takara Tomy’s Punirunz and as the image song for “Art Aquarium 2021: Hakata – Festival of Goldfish.” Conveyed from the warm gaze of a presence that was always by your side in everyday life, its message of gratitude evokes the joy of having met more strongly than the sadness of parting.
It’s a perfect song for those facing a farewell or wanting to express thanks to someone important.
When was the last time you ran up the stairs?NEW!Nogizaka 46
The 41st single, “When Was the Last Time You Raced Up the Stairs?”, released in April 2026, also drew attention for featuring 5th-generation member Teresa Ikeda as the center for the title track for the first time.
Conveyed through a visceral, breath-stealing physicality, its message depicts the will to break free from a stagnant everyday life, offering people living in the present a chance to reflect on themselves.
With dramatic, propulsive sound that lingers in the ear, it’s a pop tune brimming with both tension and exhilaration.
unravelAdo
This track by Ado was released in November 2023 as part of her cover project album, “Ado no Utatte Mita Album.” The original song, crafted by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure, is widely known as the opening theme for the anime Tokyo Ghoul.
With arrangement by Naoki Itai, it has been transformed into a rock number with a vast emotional range, fusing dramatic vocal expressions that shift from whispers to shouts with layered guitar sounds.
Reconstructing the original’s worldview—centered on identity and inner conflict—through Ado’s signature dynamism, this rendition is sure to encourage anyone who wishes to break out of their shell.
LeoYuuri
Let me introduce a ballad that reminds us how irreplaceable our everyday, ordinary moments truly are.
Included on Yuuri’s album “Ichi,” released in January 2022, this song tells the story of the bond between a dog and its owner.
As the owner grows up and spends more time with a romantic partner, the lyrics tenderly convey the lonely feelings from the pet’s perspective.
The music video, directed by Mai Sakai and starring rising actress Rin Kataoka, became a hot topic as a tear-jerking MV.
Singing about the importance of the “ordinary” that we often only recognize after it’s gone, this song will gently accompany you when you want to reflect on the time you share with family or pets.
what kind of person / who (on earth)King&Prince
Known by the nickname “Kinpri,” King & Prince is a two-member idol group whose members are active as singers, actors, and TV personalities.
Their 13th single, selected as the theme song for the NTV Sunday drama “However, There Is Passion,” champions the theme of “enjoying the present without pressure.” It’s an uplifting song that portrays how everyday life becomes more colorful through the accumulation of small, everyday joys—a refreshing pop tune that conveys a sense of hope.
Horse and deerYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu is a singer-songwriter who captures the hearts of many with his original worldview and lyrical sensibility.
Included on the album STRAY SHEEP, this piece is a gem born amid a chaotic social climate.
Its symbolic lyrics, themed around a horse and a deer, portray human clumsiness and pure longing, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in August 2019, the song sings of the strength to face adversity and the resolve to protect love and dreams.
Many will surely see themselves in its portrayal of moving forward despite repeated setbacks.
With vocals and melodies that stay close to your heart, it’s a song that gently gives you a push from behind.