Cute masterpieces of J‑Pop: recommended popular songs

L.A.NightsAgawa Yasuko

Yasuko Agawa – L.A. Nights

This autumn classic by Yasuko Agawa evokes a smoky mood as a slow R&B track infused with acid jazz stylings.

It’s an urban, chillout-ready production where the stylish piano really shines.

Yo-kai Exercise No. 1Dream5

Yo-kai Watch: Yokai Exercise No. 1

A song that became hugely popular across Japan as the theme for the children’s anime Yo-kai Watch.

Its distinctive dance also swept the nation, with not only kids but adults imitating it, making it one of the defining tracks of the 2010s.

It’s a charming song that’s often chosen for autumn sports festivals and similar events.

I love you!Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster 'I Love You.' -Short Ver.-

A hugely popular song by the female group Little Glee Monster, known for their powerful vocals and beautiful harmonies.

It’s a bright track that wholeheartedly sings, “I love you.” The song captures the feelings of a cute girl, perfect for the season of love.

360°miwa

miwa 『360°』Short Ver.

A popular song by miwa, an artist loved by a wide range of generations.

It was the theme song for the film Doraemon: Nobita and the Space Heroes.

The hit is memorable for its message, singing “You are someone special.” It’s a track that showcases miwa’s full cuteness, befitting her popularity for her charming character.

Bluebirdikimonogakari

Ikimono gakari – Blue Bird 2016 [ Chou Ikimono Matsuri Jimoto De SHOW!! ~Ebina Desho~]

A hit song by Ikimono-gakari, a band loved by many students and often chosen for occasions like graduation ceremonies.

It was used as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime series Naruto Shippuden.

The song, which evokes the feel of a dry wind, is especially popular among women.

LOVE MachineMōningu Musume.

Morning Musume. 'LOVE Machine' (MV)

A classic that recorded a million-selling hit as a signature song of the super idol group Morning Musume.

Embraced by a wide range of generations as a national idol group and sung all across Japan, it stands as one of Morning Musume’s most overwhelmingly popular tracks.

It’s a song that makes you want to move your body.

Make my heartHirai Ken

Ken Hirai 'Make My Heart' MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

The 41st single from artist Ken Hirai, renowned for his overwhelming vocal prowess.

Written as the theme song for the film “Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Great Adventure in the Antarctic Kachi Kochi,” the track captures the world of Doraemon.

It offers a glimpse of a grand worldview that is both adorable and heartrending.