Cute masterpieces of J‑Pop: recommended popular songs

Love♡Scream!AiScReam

AiScReam “Love♡Scream!” Official Lyric Video

This song portrays the sweet confusion of falling in love and a straightforward devotion to the other person.

It’s a debut single released by Lantis in January 2025, sung by AiScReam, a limited-time unit consisting of three Love Live! characters: Ruby Kurosawa, Ayumu Uehara, and Shiki Wakana.

The lyrics are striking in how they use ice cream flavors as a metaphor while expressing the feeling that “you’re the most important of all.” The trio’s beautiful harmonies layered over a poppy, bouncy sound make your heart skip with joy as you listen.

Cannot stop the queue!CUTIE STREET

[MV] CUTIE STREET "Can't Stop at the Queue!"

This high-energy pop tune, bursting with a sense of speed, grabs listeners’ hearts in an instant! It’s a CUTIE STREET track released in May 2025.

In July, it was also put out as a double A-side single CD together with “Chikyuu Makeup Keikaku.” The song made its debut at their first one-man live in Osaka in March, accompanied by the members’ deadpan para-para dance, which became a hot topic.

With the pedal to the metal, the lyrics carry an impressively positive message.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants a boost to power through each day or needs a push to take on something new.

younger boykyandīzu

A Younger Boy / Candies (Cover)

When it comes to cute songs by the Candies, this is the one! You can feel the emotions of a girl dating a cute younger boy—she fusses over him, yet she just can’t help how much she loves him.

It’s a song where you can enjoy the Candies’ clear, easy-to-understand, and slightly sexy vocals.

Magical Starshine Make-up☆Nishino Kana

Magical Starshine Make-up☆

On those mornings when you just can’t get into the groove and find yourself sighing at your reflection, we’ve all been there, right? This is the one song by Kana Nishino that sprinkles a bit of sparkling magic on your heart.

Through the everyday ritual of makeup, it tells the story of transforming back into the version of yourself you always wanted to be.

The lively pop sound and Kana Nishino’s cute vocals feel like a gentle push that says, “You’re not alone.” Released as a single in July 2025, it also made waves with a simultaneous performance on THE FIRST TAKE.

Put it on first thing in the morning, and you’re sure to start a wonderful day!

A devoted girl.Yuika

A single-minded girl. / 'Yuika' [MV]

This piece sets straightforward feelings of love to a bright band sound.

Released in April 2025 with Ryo Hanai handling the arrangement, it vividly captures a fresh page of youth.

Written back in high school, it carefully and realistically weaves words of inner conflict over unrequited love and unwavering devotion.

There’s plenty here that younger listeners will relate to.

If you’re in the middle of a one-sided crush, give it a listen!

weeklynishina

nishina – weekly [Official Video]

The single “weekly,” released in April 2025, is a gem of a pop tune that showcases Nishina’s musical talent.

Its soothing melody line and addictive vocals blend in exquisite balance to paint a gentle sonic world.

The bright tones of the horn section are downright exhilarating.

I think it’s perfect for a calm, leisurely afternoon on a day off.

NEW KAWAIIFRUITS ZIPPER

【MV】FRUITS ZIPPER「NEW KAWAII」

A pop song packed full of “I like you” feelings! The lyrics capture the heart of a girl in love, paired with an unforgettable, catchy melody.

Just thinking about the person you like makes your heart flutter—and you can really feel that in this song.

Included on the album released in April 2024, it was also featured in an au by KDDI commercial.

Sing it at karaoke, and you might be able to convey your feelings straight to that special someone.

It’s the perfect track for anyone struggling with love or gearing up to confess their feelings.