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)
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.
Gen Z listeners, don’t miss this! “Great Songs” Coloring the J-POP Scene (81–90)
Ur ZoneNumber_i
This is a Number_i track released in September 2025 as an advance single from their second full album, “No.Ⅱ.” Its low-center-of-gravity, club-oriented beat and intensely evolving rap create a one-of-a-kind soundscape.
The lyrics, which portray a strong resolve to carve out a new realm of their own without flinching at outside evaluations, are likely to resonate with many.
It’s an aggressive, floor-shaking dance tune with a strikingly hard-hitting track.
Oni BanquetTomonari Sora
Blending traditional Japanese flavors with modern beats, the track showcases Sora Tomonari’s uniquely imaginative world—highly addictive and captivating.
Released in January 2024, it celebrates the joy of living freely, unbound by conventions, and following the heart.
Set in a dreamlike world, it depicts a festive scene that gradually draws the central protagonist into a liberating atmosphere, powerfully captivating listeners.
Topping the Billboard JAPAN charts and earning strong support especially among younger audiences, the work reminds us of the importance of living authentically without being confined by molds.
It’s also a great song for a change of mood and has been gaining attention through “singing cover” posts on social media.
Let Love Begin Now. feat. Azuki Mochizuki (CV: Rie Takahashi)HONEY WORKS
HoneyWorks, the creator unit beloved for their heart-fluttering coming-of-age stories.
First unveiled at an event in August 2025, this song marks a new chapter in the Confession Executive Committee series.
It portrays the thrill of love that begins to move after a reunion with a childhood friend.
The exhilarating band sound and catchy melody link perfectly with the sweet-and-sour lyrics, resulting in top-tier youth pop.
It’s perfect for when you want to savor the rush of a budding romance, or to brighten your mood on a morning when you’re taking on a challenge!
War and the Girl (Prod. Nujabes)ZORN
A deeply memorable track by rapper ZORN.
Created for the NHK Special “Songs Woven in a Time of War (Now): PASS THE MIC,” it was released in August 2025.
This collaboration sets rap over a track left behind by the late trackmaker Nujabes, who passed away suddenly in 2010.
The lyrics amplify the unheard voices of people who experienced war, conveying their messages to the present.
The lo-fi sound underscores the weight of the words.
Please give it a listen and reflect on world peace.