[A must-listen for high school students!!] A roundup of standout tracks from trending artists

racyA-ko

a子 – racy : MUSIC VIDEO

Singer-songwriter Ako, hailed as the next-generation dark pop icon, holds the belief: “Because music saved me, I want to save others through music.” The lead single Racy, released ahead of her 3rd EP Steal your heart, features an ensemble with a distinctly oriental atmosphere.

Its sentimental lyrics, spun in a whispery voice, paired with a danceable beat, give it a uniquely addictive quality.

It’s an urban pop tune you’ll want to check out alongside its fully animated music video.

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Hoshino Takashi

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trankA-ko

a-ko – trank : MUSIC VIDEO

Singer-songwriter Ako, who is active not only as a solo artist but also with a band, has been gaining attention for her diverse and unique musicality.

Her single “trank,” released on September 13, 2023, also drew buzz for her sword action in the music video.

The contrast between the sentimental lyrics and the languid ensemble has a charm that draws you into the song’s world just by listening.

It’s an urban-sounding, addictive pop tune.

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Hoshino Takashi

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You can’t love all of me.A-ko

Ako – Can't Love All of Me: Music Video

Singer-songwriter aco, who is gaining attention for songs that incorporate diverse musical styles like pop, electro, jazz, and new wave.

Released digitally on June 21, 2023, “Atashi no Zenbu wo Aisenai” lingers in your ears with its sprightly beat and airy, translucent whisper vocals.

The lyrics, which evoke a story of being in love while unable to shake negative feelings toward oneself, are likely to resonate with many listeners’ own experiences.

It’s a sentimental number with a dreamy yet ennui-tinged atmosphere that leaves a strong impression.

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Hoshino Takashi

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I say byeimase

【imase】I say bye（MV）

Singer-songwriter imase, who started playing guitar at 20 with no prior experience on any instrument and made his major-label debut the following year.

His 13th digital-only single, “I say bye,” was selected as the TV commercial song for the apparel brand GLOBAL WORK.

Its modern sound and ensemble over a relaxed beat make it a perfect BGM for unwinding at home.

It’s a stylish number—be sure to check out the surreal music video as well.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Nagisaimase

【imase】Nagisa（MV）

Nagisa starts with a classic four-on-the-floor “don, don, don, don,” evoking the charm of old-school dance pop.

Released as a digital single in 2023 by imase, the track is a stylish number that’s especially popular with younger listeners, even landing on YouTube’s trending music list.

It also connects with the city pop revival centered around artists like Tatsuro Yamashita and Taeko Onuki, featuring a subtly nostalgic sound—be sure to listen for that appeal as well.

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Yuuki

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Utopiaimase

[imase] Utopia (MV)

Singer-songwriter imase has captured massive support from younger generations—especially on TikTok—and is drawing attention on the J-pop scene, with his debut track surpassing 500 million streams.

His digital single Utopia, released on July 7, 2023, was written as the theme song for the animated film SAND LAND.

Its message—that a peaceful everyday life is what truly matters—may help those prone to overthinking loosen up and breathe a little easier.

It’s a positive pop tune, featuring a refreshing ensemble over a lively shuffle beat that feels wonderfully uplifting.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Anytime Anywheremilet

milet “Anytime Anywhere” Teaser (TV anime “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” ending theme)

Singer-songwriter milet, who became widely known to a broad audience thanks to her vocal performance at the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, released the digital-only single “Anytime Anywhere” on September 29, 2023.

The track was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.

Its lyrics, which express a wish to stay together even after reincarnation, in any form, are tinged with sentimentality yet filled with the joy of having met someone precious.

Featuring a grand ensemble built around delicate piano and acoustic guitar, it’s an emotional pop tune that resonates deeply.

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Hoshino Takashi

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