[March 2026] The latest J-pop releases. Check out the buzzworthy new tracks!

By the side on a moonlit nightUru

[Official] Uru “By Your Side on a Moonlit Night” — Theme song for the film “The Guardian of the Camphor Tree”

Singer Uru, who continues to captivate listeners with her deep vocals and ethereal presence.

Her 17th single, “Katawara nite Tsukiyo,” released in January 2026, was written as the theme song for the film “Kusunoki no Bannin,” based on a novel by Keigo Higashino.

The lyrics and composition were handled by Iyori Shimizu of back number, and the blend of a melody that nestles into a quiet night with vocals that seep into the heart is striking.

This song, which scoops up feelings that can’t be put into words, feels perfect for nights spent alone or moments when you’re thinking of someone special.

phantom worldV.W.P

[Original MV] Illusory World / V.W.P #30

Released by the virtual artist group V.W.P in January 2026, this work drew attention as it was selected as the opening theme for the anime Cardfight!! Vanguard Divinez: Genshin Seisen Arc.

The song, produced by Mikito-P and others, stands out with a sense of speed befitting the start of a story and a dramatic progression that gets the listener’s heart racing.

It’s also included on the album Hanten, released in the same month, and seems to showcase a deepening of the group’s expressive range.

It’s an emotional rock number, with powerful vocals that cross the boundary between reality and fiction and strike straight to the heart.

Picaresque heroano

ano “Picaresque Hero” Music Video

Singer-songwriter ano, who draws attention on variety shows with a unique personality and showcases multifaceted talents in band activities and acting, has released this digital single in January 2026.

The track was written as the opening theme for the anime TRIGUN STARGAZE, and it also made waves for being composed by DAIDAI of Paledusk.

Its lyrics portray a journey forward while bearing contradictions and impulses that aren’t just about justice—words that will likely resonate deeply with people whose emotions defy easy categorization.

Blending a propulsive, high-speed rock sound with ano’s distinctive vocals, it’s an energetic number that powerfully pushes listeners onward.

Tell me your phone number!≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 4th single title track “Tell Me Your Phone Number!” [MV full]

Released early in January 2026 and officially launched as the 4th single in February, this track is a classic idol pop song that captures the initial impulses at the start of love.

It expresses those sweet, bittersweet feelings of wanting to get closer to someone you like and mustering the courage to ask for their contact—sure to make listeners’ hearts flutter.

The dance music video set in a school, featuring center Kanoa Amano’s adorable charm, is another highlight.

Be sure to check out their fresh, vibrant vocals.

crystallizationNakajima Kento

crystallization

Kessho is a powerful message song that gives a push to everyone running toward their dreams.

Released digitally by Kento Nakajima on January 18, 2026, it was selected as the official TEAM JAPAN support song for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

The driving, exhilarating beat crafted by m-flo’s ☆Taku Takahashi wraps you in euphoria just by listening.

The choice of words—layering multiple meanings like “final” (決勝) and “crystal” (結晶) in addition to the title—also stirs the heart.

It’s an anthem packed with burning passion, perfect for that make-or-break moment.