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.
- An iconic song by a female artist that Gen Z can get hyped about with their peers
- Recommended for Gen Z! Classic love songs sung by female artists
- Tear ducts guaranteed to burst! Heart-wrenching masterpiece songs I’d recommend to Gen Z
- Tear-jerking masterpieces sung by male artists that I’d recommend to Gen Z
- Get fired up for the hot season! Summer songs recommended for Gen Z
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- Hype songs sung by male artists that are recommended for Gen Z
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Definitely when you want a boost of power! Energetic songs recommended for Gen Z
- Karaoke songs sung by female artists recommended for Gen Z
- Only masterpieces that color the season of meetings and farewells! Spring songs recommended for Gen Z.
- [Women Artists Only] Breakup Songs Recommended for Gen Z
- Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Youth anthems recommended for Gen Z
Gen Z listeners, take note! “Good Songs” Coloring the J-POP Scene (71–80)
Tokyo FlashVaundy
Vaundy, known for his highly original music, has earned strong support.
The first track he released digitally, in November 2019, is this urban, mellow number.
Its stylish sound blended with a comfortable groove makes you feel your heart grow lighter just by listening.
Looking at the lyrics, they depict superficial conversations and fleeting relationships, skillfully reflecting both the light and shadow of Tokyo’s glittering nights.
The song was also used as incidental music in ABEMA’s show “Koisuru ♥ Shuumatsu Homestay” and is included on his first album, “strobo.” It’s a track that stays by your side at the end of the day, when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood and let your thoughts wander.
HeroYOASOBI
YOASOBI is a music duo known for the massive hit of their major-label debut song “Racing into the Night,” drawing worldwide attention.
Released in September 2023, this track was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.
The lyrics, themed around a “story that begins from the end,” powerfully convey the protagonist’s sense of loss after losing a precious companion and the resolve to set out again while holding onto those memories.
The grand, fantastical ensemble fused with Ikura’s emotional vocals instantly transports listeners into the world of the story.
It’s a richly layered number that not only resonates with trend-savvy teens but is especially recommended for anyone seeking a song that truly stirs the heart.
NIGHT DANCERimase
It’s a buoyant dance tune that conjures a vision of the city skyline at night.
Created by imase, a singer from Gifu Prefecture who rose to fame after posting on TikTok, the track was released in August 2022.
Its sound blends a polished four-on-the-floor beat with a subtly nostalgic melody, making it perfect for a chilled-out mood.
The lyrics portray an ambiguous late-night relationship between two people, and the protagonist’s desire to stay together while hiding their true feelings gently resonates with listeners.
The song became the first J-pop track to break into the top 20 on South Korea’s music charts and was later included on his first album, Bonsai.
It’s a number you’ll want to play at the end of the day when you want to forget the noise and unwind.
Midnight Girlimase
With its laid-back beat and faintly nostalgic melody, it feels like it melts into the stillness of the night.
Crafted by imase—an artist gaining attention at home and abroad after breaking out on TikTok—this track is a groovy number with a touch of R&B.
Its bittersweet, wistful worldview quietly reflecting on a past love really strikes a chord.
The gentle vocals further underline the sentimental mood.
Released in January 2024, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Chaser Game W: My Power-Harassing Boss Is My Ex-Girlfriend,” and was later included on his debut album, “Bonsai.” It’s a chill track that softly untangles the heart—perfect for nights when you want to drift into thought at the end of the day.
KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who also has a persona as a Vocaloid producer and continues to expand the musical possibilities of the J-pop scene.
The track released in November 2022, used as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, drew major attention for featuring Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu on arrangement.
With its drum’n’bass-driven, intense beat and whirlwind progression, the sound feels like a roller coaster that sweeps listeners along, deeply linking with the work’s frenzied worldview.
The lyrics, infused with the protagonist’s somewhat nihilistic and self-destructive desire for happiness and good fortune, strike a powerful impulse into the listener’s heart.
It’s an aggressive, cool rock tune that blasts away the boredom of everyday life and lifts your mood to the max.
It Ain’t OverFuji Kaze
Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, who blends a wide range of musical genres with his own distinctive sensibility and performs on the world stage.
Among the tracks on his album “Prema,” released in September 2025 and selling 192,000 copies in its first week, this one in particular evokes a quietly profound emotion.
It is a ballad with a soothing, undulating groove, suffused with the warmth of soul and gospel that seeps deep into the heart.
While gently accompanying the sense of loss that comes with losing someone precious, the lyrical world whispers a conviction that “this is not the end,” like a prayer.
Coupled with the saxophone—played by Fujii himself—this song makes you feel your heart softly uncoil as you listen.
It’s the perfect number for nights when you want to step away from the hustle and immerse yourself in time that’s just your own.
FloriginalMrs. GREEN APPLE
It’s a song that offers a stylish, introspective charm, distinctly different from Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s colorful and pop image.
The minimal, pleasant beat makes you feel as if you’re strolling somewhere.
The lyrics convey a delicate, somewhat philosophical sense—wishes to be cherished and a gentle closeness to anxieties carried alone.
Released in November 2022 as part of the single “Soranji,” this track emerged from a unique collaboration project called “PARFA TUNE,” which pairs perfume with music.
It’s a number with a mysterious allure that you can listen to as if you were wearing a scent.
Perfect for when you want to feel a bit grown-up—on the train to school or at a café after classes.