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, don’t miss this! “Great Songs” Coloring the J-POP Scene (91–100)
moonlightSenchimirimentaru
This is a track by Centimillimental, the solo project of Atsushi, depicting the vitality that dwells within resignation.
Released in June 2025, Atsushi says he was compelled to write the song by the image of someone who screamed, “I don’t need tomorrow,” and sang.
The poised band sound and radiant brass seem to express a flame of the heart that continues to burn even on the brink of despair.
I believe it’s a song that gently gives a push to those who’ve hit a wall and come to a standstill.
Mr./Ms. (honorific suffix)FRUITS ZIPPER
This is a song that colored the 3rd anniversary of FRUITS ZIPPER’s debut.
Released digitally in June 2025, it’s a mid-tempo J-pop number filled with sun-like warmth and gratitude.
The lyrics, which express everyday happiness in a poppy way, will warm your heart just by reading them, and the bright sound arrangement is soothing.
It’s perfect for when you want to feel gentle or need a little push to move forward!
breakfastMrs. GREEN APPLE
A buoyant pop number that’s perfect for starting your day.
This track by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE rides on a refreshing melody, singing about the small shifts of the heart and forward-looking energy in everyday life.
Motoki Omori’s clear vocals and the vivid sound will give listeners courage.
Released in June 2025, it was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s morning information program “Sun! Shine” starting in March 2025.
If you listen when you’re ready to take on a challenge, it’s sure to give you a boost—and it’s great for a change of pace, too.
KusushikiMrs. GREEN APPLE
This piece expresses scenes woven by a mystical tale through an Oriental-tinged melody and band sound.
Created by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE in April 2025, it was selected as the opening theme for the second cour of season 2 of the TV anime The Apothecary Diaries, with arrangement handled by Shingo Kubota and Motoki Omori.
The lyrics, inspired by the dual nature of the archaic word “ayashi” (strange/wondrous), delicately weave the power of words, subtle shifts of emotion, and love that transcends time.
In harmony with the story and carried by vocals that resonate deep within, this is a recommended track for anyone wishing to touch upon life’s mysteries and their most cherished feelings.
Absolute relationshipakai kouen
This piece condenses the subtle distance and complexity of human relationships into just 100 seconds.
The edgy sound of Akai Ko-en blends beautifully with lyrics that portray a sincere desire to understand the other person.
Despite its brevity, the song’s structure leaves a powerful impression, and Yosaki Tsuno’s sharp insight shines throughout.
Released as a single in March 2014, it was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Saturday drama “Lost Days,” which began airing in January of the same year, and it reached a personal best of No.
20 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
It’s a heartwarming song that stands by anyone struggling with relationships that don’t go as planned.
ObsessedAyumu Imazu
This song captures the sweet-and-sour feeling of first love with a pop sound.
The protagonist, who easily falls at first sight, expresses delicate emotions carried by a pleasant groove and a catchy chorus melody.
A chill, casual track and bilingual lyrics perfectly portray Gen Z’s down-to-earth approach to romance.
Released in January 2024, it sparked a wave of dance challenges on social media and topped the Billboard JAPAN chart in Korea, resonating across Asia.
It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to while strolling through the city under a fresh spring sky—perfect for anyone who wants to be honest about how it feels to be in love.
STEADYSPEED
Accompanied by a music video memorable for its sepia-toned seaside scenes, SPEED’s second single was released in November 1996.
It sold 1.5 million copies, earning a spot at No.
5 on the 1997 annual singles sales ranking.
While its bittersweet lyrics speak of love, the song conveys a forward-looking spirit.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Itazura na Kiss,” it captured the hearts of many viewers.
Beyond the allure of their vocals and dance, the track lets listeners feel the group’s growth through its melodic lines.
Filled with feelings for a cherished person swayed by love, it remains beloved by many listeners even today.