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” that color the J-pop scene (11–20)
Philosophy[Alexandros]
![Philosophy[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/jIysnJZewLQ/sddefault.jpg)
A rock number that powerfully expresses the rebellious spirit and inner conflicts of youth is gripping the hearts of Gen Z listeners.
In this work, the energetic band sound and standout vocals vividly capture the emotions of young people.
Spanning about six minutes, the song’s structure rises and falls, with a memorable build-up that starts from the intro.
Released in January 2020, it was tied in with NHK’s youth program “18 Fes,” where a live performance was also showcased.
It’s a recommended track for those on a journey of self-discovery or anyone looking to give voice to feelings they’ve kept inside.
Kitearashi
The song planned as NHK’s theme for 2020 was born from a collaboration with Kenshi Yonezu.
Released in July 2020, it drew major attention as Arashi’s 58th single.
It debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and sold 911,000 copies in its first week, truly making it a work that symbolizes the times.
With lyrics themed around a kite, it carries both the powerful drive to pursue dreams and hope, and a warmth that evokes our connections with those around us.
Celebrating how vital family and loved ones are—how their support gives us the courage to chase our dreams—this heartwarming pop tune gently nudges anyone about to take a new step forward.
rainbowSuda Masaki
The theme song for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2, sung by Masaki Suda, who is active in many areas of the entertainment industry.
Released in November 2020, the track became a major hit, surpassing 100 million streams.
Its warm, everyday-life-affirming lyrics and Suda’s straightforward vocals resonate deeply with listeners.
Singing about gratitude and bonds with loved ones, the song is also popular as a wedding tune.
It’s a great listen when you want to share a happy feeling with someone.
Tomorrow will surely be a good day.Takahashi Yuu
Takahashi Yu’s single, woven with a positive message, stands out for its refreshing arrangement featuring acoustic guitar.
Released in June 2015, the track was used as the commercial song for Daihatsu’s “Cast Activa.” Its lyrics, which depict various everyday events and emotions, remind us of the importance of moving forward positively and overcoming any hardship.
With a catchy melody that makes you want to hum along, it’s a gem of a pop tune.
It’s also a great recommendation for Gen Z listeners, as it supports those who feel afraid of failure and struggle to take the next step.
LepidoKakizaki Yūta
Yuta Kakizaki has earned support for his delicate portrayals of shifting emotions.
Among his works, this track—released in April 2025—stands out for its heart-piercing vocals.
Produced in a home-recording style with Kakizaki performing all instruments himself, the song channels inner turmoil through an alternative sound.
The meticulously layered guitar and keyboard arrangements reveal new details with every listen.
Right after its release, it earned high praise overseas, reaching No.
6 on Apple Music’s J-POP chart in Latvia.
On nights when you’re burdened with unnameable anxieties, or when you want to immerse yourself in music alone, surrender yourself to this sound.
Become a ghostKakizaki Yūta
The crystalline guitar sound and the almost vanishingly delicate vocals leave a strong impression.
It conveys a sense of loneliness as if you’ve become transparent and disappeared, yet also a heartfelt wish to stay close to someone you cherish.
This is a digital-only single released by Yuta Kakizaki in September 2025.
From songwriting and composition to playing all the instruments himself, this work distills his multifaceted talent.
It’s also intriguing that it has garnered cross-border support, ranking 17th on the UK J-Pop chart.
There’s nothing flashy here, but it overflows with a gentle warmth that quietly stays by your side, and every word is sure to resonate in your heart.
Highly recommended for quiet nights alone or when you want to filter out the haze in your mind.
Please give it a listen.
Gen Z listeners, take note! “Good songs” coloring the J-POP scene (21–30)
Because you were thereINI
This is a ballad written as the theme song for the documentary film “INI THE MOVIE: I Need I,” which reflects roughly four years since their debut.
Won’t it make your heart swell as it ties in with the film’s story? Six members contributed to the lyrics, expressing their gratitude to those who supported them in down-to-earth words.
Also included on the single “THE WINTER MAGIC,” released in November 2025, this track’s piano tones and the overlapping voices of all eleven members have a gentle, enveloping power.
The lyrics, which look back on their journey so far, may even bring unexpected tears.
It’s a song you’ll want to savor on a winter night, or when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone important.