[February 2026] Latest J‑Pop releases. Check out the hottest new tracks!
In Japan’s music scene, countless songs are released every day—not only through digital distribution but also on CD, with music videos often premiering on YouTube ahead of time.
Exploring new J-pop releases is exciting: you can check out buzzworthy tracks like theme songs from dramas and anime, discover new songs from popular artists, or stumble upon music by up-and-coming acts you haven’t heard of yet.
In this article, we’ll introduce a carefully curated selection of recommended tracks chosen by our editorial team from the myriad of new releases.
We’ll be covering many works, so if any song catches your interest, be sure to give it a thorough listen!
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Latest J-Pop releases (1–10)
DawnNEW!yama
The lyrics, which layer the struggle wavering between dreams and reality over the break of dawn, pierce deeply into listeners’ hearts.
It’s a track by yama, the singer known for hits like “Haru wo Tsugeru,” released on January 21, 2026.
Chosen as the theme song for the film “Love Trial,” which premiered on January 23, 2026.
Its bittersweet yet gentle worldview is captivating, as if quietly staying by your side when you’re troubled by the gap between your ideals and who you are.
It’s a moving song that showcases yama’s delicate expressive power.
Rivals and EqualsNEW!Mori Calliope
The high-energy sound makes you want to throw your fist in the air! Released for streaming in January 2026 by hololive English’s Mori Calliope, this track was produced as an insert song for episode 18 of the anime “Gachiakuta.” Riding on a heavyweight arrangement by PABLO and G4CH4, its lyrics—depicting a heated rivalry—hit with razor-sharp impact.
Why not give it a listen before a must-win showdown? It’s also included on the album “DISASTERPIECE,” out in February 2026.
A Paragraph of LoveNEW!Hanbureddāzu
Humbreaders are a rock band that captures youth in down-to-earth words.
Released digitally in January 2026 ahead of the album GALAXY DRIVE, this song was written by vocalist Akira Mutsumuro for a dear friend’s wedding.
The lyrics gently scoop up the feelings that dwell in everyday moments and seep into the listener’s heart.
The warm melody and band ensemble also feel wonderfully comforting.
It’s recommended not only for those about to start a new life with their partner, but also for anyone who wants to rediscover the importance of ordinary days.
Latest Japanese music releases (11–20)
Azalea WindNEW!UNISON SQUARE GARDEN
UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a three-piece rock band that captivates listeners with high-level musicianship and catchy melodies.
Azalea no Kaze is a pop song where the sharpness of the band sound blends exquisitely with gentle keyboard tones.
It was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime A Sign of Affection.
Its sound evokes the bittersweetness of youth, and Kosuke Saito’s crystal-clear vocals will make your heart flutter.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while thinking of someone you love.
exposure; disclosure; revelationNEW!syudou
“Baku Ro,” released by syudou in January 2026, is a newly written track serving as the opening theme for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo P.D.: Metropolitan Police Department Public Relations Division 2.” Riding on a driving, high-velocity beat, it offers a cynical portrayal of the lies pervading the city and the precariousness of justice.
Listening to it gives you a cathartic feeling, as if slicing through a world of empty façades.
When you’re tired of a society full of pretty words, this song might be just the refresh you need!
DEAD CENTER feat. LiSANEW!REOL
This track, included on Reol’s album “Bijigaku” released in January 2026, became a hot topic as a collaboration featuring LiSA, a singer renowned for numerous anime themes and beloved both in Japan and abroad.
True to its title, which means “right down the middle” in English slang, its powerful message—like two paths merging head-on—teaches the importance of believing in yourself and forging ahead.
With cutting-edge beats and the two vocalists’ voices colliding vividly, it’s an uplifting tune perfect for those decisive, make-or-break moments.
Complete victory Love & Good!NEW!iLiFE!
“Complete Victory Love & Good!”, included on the EP Melomera released in January 2026, features an impressive, fast-paced sound that fuses rock and electro.
First performed with a full band setup at the Nippon Budokan show in August 2025, it sent the venue into a frenzy.
With lyrics themed around “victory” and “affirmation,” the song gives listeners a powerful push forward.
It’s sure to give you courage when you need it most in a decisive moment.