[February 2026] Latest J‑Pop releases. Check out the hottest new tracks!

New Year’s card 2026 (Year of the Horse)NEW!SUSHIBOYS

New Year’s Card 2026 (Horse) - SUSHIBOYS (Official Music Video)

SUSHIBOYS is a hip-hop duo drawing attention for their unique style of rapping about familiar, everyday topics like kei cars and city bikes.

This track stands out with wordplay inspired by the zodiac sign of the Horse and lyrics that capture their New Year’s resolve, packing in the humor and skill that define their appeal.

Released in January 2026, it’s the fourth installment of their annual New Year’s project, the “Nengajo Series,” which drops every New Year’s Day.

With beats produced by the members themselves and refined sound design by phritz, the track also builds anticipation for their two-man live show scheduled for February 2026.

It’s a playful, SUSHIBOYS-style hip-hop tune that brightens the start of the year.

Reach it, all of it.NEW!Oni-chan

Reach it, all of it.

Oni-chan is a popular character from KDDI/au’s “Santaro” TV commercial series, also known for being voiced by actor Masaki Suda as the singing performer.

The single Todoke, Zenbu., released on January 9, 2026, was selected as the new New Year CM song for the series in 2026.

Its lyrics, which depict the desire to share your feelings with someone important, have drawn attention as the series’ first love song.

With string arrangements by Kenichi Nagahashi of agehasprings Party highlighting its beautiful melody, it’s a heartwarming pop tune.

Why not give it a listen when you want to feel connected despite the distance, or while thinking of someone special?

Thanks a tonNEW!ikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari “Super Thank You” Music Video

A beloved classic that has long served as a national song of gratitude received a surprising update in January 2026, just ahead of the group’s 20th debut anniversary.

This new release reimagines the original track “Arigatou”—familiar as the theme song of the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo—with a cheerful, reggae-inspired sound.

The original production team has reunited, and even the jacket photo has been faithfully recreated—a playful touch that’s hard to resist.

Keeping the warmth of the original intact while adding the light, contemporary groove that only they can bring, the message feels even brighter and more uplifting.

It’s perfect for a New Year’s greeting or for casually expressing gratitude to someone special—give it a listen.

Our riddlesNEW!Tsunomaki Watame

Our Riddles / Tsunomaki Watame [original]

VTuber Tsunomaki Watame, who’s loved for her sheep-themed character and assured vocal prowess.

Her digital single “Bokura no Nazo Nazo,” released in December 2025, is a brisk, exhilarating pop-rock tune produced by Akita Horie that feels great to listen to.

The lyrics liken the importance of continuing to ask questions in a world without absolute answers to a riddle, something many listeners will probably relate to their own unresolved, day-to-day worries.

With luxurious guest vocals from her Hololive peers—such as Sakura Miko and Hoshimachi Suisei—the choral parts add to a festive, impactful atmosphere.

It’s a playful, positivity-charged track I’d recommend when you’re feeling lost or need a boost of energy.

DunkNEW!Todoroki Hajime

[Original] Dunk/Hajime Todoroki [Official MV]

Hololive Production VTuber Hajime Todoroki’s digital single “Dunk,” released in January 2026, drew attention for being both written and choreographed by the artist herself.

Its lyrics, which parallel the flow of a basketball game with the push-and-pull of romance, pair with a rhythm-rich sound to create an addictive track.

The more you listen, the more it makes you want to fall in love! It’s an energetic dance tune with a danceable beat that gets your body moving.

ICONICNEW!hanabie

Hanabie. – ICONIC – Music Video [HANABIE.]

Hanabie., a band surging ahead with their unique “Harajuku-core” style that sublimates metalcore and hardcore, has even performed at overseas festivals.

Released in advance on January 9 as the lead track from the EP “HOT TOPIC,” which dropped on January 28, 2026, this song delivers a thrilling blend of razor-sharp loud sounds and poppy melodies.

Its lyrics champion “being yourself” over others’ evaluations, likely giving a strong push to listeners who feel uncertain.

The music video directed by Takuya Oyama further highlights the song’s depth with its portrayal of “duality,” making this an energetic number.

Star WishNEW!STARGLOW

STARGLOW / Star Wish -Official Audio-

STARGLOW is a dance and vocal group born from BMSG’s audition “THE LAST PIECE.” The title track of their debut single, released in January 2026, features a sound that blends exhilarating anticipation with a touch of wistfulness, hinting at the journey ahead.

With SKY-HI participating in the production, the song fuses Western grooves with J-pop sensibilities, leaving a sophisticated resonance that lingers in your ears.

Following their pre-debut track “Moonchaser,” this long-awaited release has finally arrived.

It’s a song that will give you a push when you’re ready to take the first step toward your dreams and goals—be sure to give it a listen.