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! “Great Songs” Coloring the J-POP Scene (51–60)
flameLiSA
Released in October 2020 as the theme song for the feature film Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train, this piece was composed and arranged by Yuki Kajiura and completed with lyrics co-written with LiSA.
The sweeping ballad mirrors the life and spirit of the central character, Kyojuro Rengoku, portraying parting and hope, and the will that is passed on.
It powerfully sings of the strength to keep moving forward without being swept away by sorrow.
It won the Grand Prize at the 62nd Japan Record Awards and topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for three consecutive weeks, becoming a social phenomenon that transcended the anime-music sphere.
It is a song we hope you’ll listen to if you’ve experienced the loss of someone dear or need courage to face difficulties.
Bedroom TalkOfisharu Higedan Dism
A song written and composed by Daisuke Kozasa that captures a moment of sharing true feelings in a bedroom at night.
It’s included on the album “Editorial,” released in August 2021.
The song carries a warm message that gently lights an unwavering lamp in hearts worn out by the online world, reminding us of the importance of quiet conversations that connect us with others.
mabanua’s mellow arrangement wraps the stillness of the night, while the delicate guitar tones resonate pleasantly.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to on nights when you’re tired of human relationships and want to take your time talking with someone you trust.
The lyric video is created entirely with illustrations, beautifully depicting the passage of time from dusk until sleep.
Irodori Stepruuto
This piece, produced by Root for the children’s TV show Oha Suta’s theme song, features lyrics co-written with TOKU and music co-composed with Matsu.
The track carries a positive message that cheers on children as they take steady steps toward their dreams.
Its refreshing pop sound and exhilarating, fast-paced melody feel great—listening in the morning really gives you energy.
Highly recommended for anyone starting a new challenge or looking to approach each day with a positive mindset.
more than wordsHitsuji Bungaku
Hitsujibungaku captivates with their unique sound that blends inorganic coolness and warmth, along with poetic, delicate word choices.
Released in September 2023, this track was selected as the ending theme for Season 2 of the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen, the Shibuya Incident arc, and has surpassed 100 million streams.
Incorporating a four-on-the-floor beat and programmed sounds for the first time, the piece is an ambitious work produced by Moeka Shiotsuka after a year of studying DTM (desktop music production).
The lyrics, which reflect on how to convey feelings that words alone can’t express and on how to navigate one’s own life, really resonate.
The transparent vocals meld into the expansive soundscape, making it a song you’ll want to savor on a quiet night.
Gen Z listeners, take note! “Great Songs” Coloring the J-POP Scene (61–70)
waxing; filling up; becoming full; growing (e.g., the moon growing fuller)Fuji Kaze
A love song written in March 2024 by singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze from Okayama Prefecture as the theme song for the film “April, Come She Will.” Its gentle piano melody and tender vocals weave a profound message of love in which the heart is fulfilled by letting go of attachment.
Rather than love that seeks something in return, the lyrics extol the nobility of offering unconditional love, reminding us of the importance of accepting life’s impermanence and change.
In the music video, Fujii Kaze himself plays both an old man and a young man, depicting a life story centered on love for a mother.
It’s a gem of a ballad that sinks deep into the heart—one to hear when you want to reexamine your relationships with loved ones or when you reach a turning point in life.
TATTOOOfisharu Higedan Dism
This work shines with Higedan’s signature pop sensibility, where a dramatic arrangement and a refined AOR flavor blend exquisitely.
The lyrics portray two people whose special bond allows them to overcome any difficult situation.
Carried by a groovy rhythm, the melody unfolds with a delicate, emotional atmosphere while still conveying strength.
Released in April 2023, the song was written as the theme for the TBS Friday drama “Pending Train: 8:23, Ashita Kimi to.” It’s a lingering, resonant number recommended for those who want to think of someone dear or feel connected at heart even when apart.
DOGLANDPEOPLE 1
Released in December 2022, this track mixes a slightly eerie atmosphere with poetic lyrics.
It drew attention as the ending theme for episode 10 of the anime Chainsaw Man, arriving at a milestone moment as PEOPLE 1’s first anime theme song.
The structure is striking: rap-like verses give way to a chorus where the band ensemble brings a catchy lift, and the lyrics—linking physicality with inner emotion—hit straight to the heart.
Later included on the album “Hoshimeguri, Kimi ni Kinsei,” the song shines with lyrics and composition by Deu and arrangement by Hajime Taguchi.
Its cool world, balancing ambiguity and intensity, is perfect for listeners seeking refined music in everyday life or those moved by the synchronicity of animation and music.