[May 2026] The latest J-Pop releases. Check out the hottest new tracks!

Gero on the MICNEW!Gero

Gero on the MIC / Gero

Gero is a multi-artist who got his start on Niconico Douga.

“Gero on the MIC” is a track from his album ECHO, released in April 2026.

The lyrics and music are by Saeki youthK, and over a brisk, lively track he shouts his passion for music and his own reason for being.

The song has a live, energetic feel that lifts your spirits as you listen.

Its powerful message—urging you to raise your voice as yourself, beyond the confines of society—will fill you with vitality.

USSS GPTNEW!urashimasakatasen

USSS GPT/Urashimasakatasen

It’s a pop tune with a charming, light electro sound.

It’s a piece released in April 2026 by Urashimasakatasen, a vocal unit that originated on the internet, created as a track for an April Fools’ project.

Packed with their signature playful spirit and a theme evocative of the AI era, it’s an absolute blast to listen to.

I think it’s perfect for when you want to blow away the gloom or refresh your mood!

Someone I love even when we’re apartNEW!SPICY CHOCOLATE

SPICY CHOCOLATE – The Person I Love Even When We’re Apart feat. Sugar Goose, Albert Connor & REKID [Music Video]

Although the romance was supposed to be over, the feelings for the other person won’t fade… This song captures that bittersweet emotion.

Led by KATSUYUKI a.k.a.

DJ CONTROLER, SPICY CHOCOLATE released it in April 2026 featuring artists including Sugar Goose.

Its soothing rhythm, rooted in reggae and infused with hip-hop, gently embraces the complexities of a restless heart.

It’s a recommended track for quietly reflecting on a past love or as background music for a night drive.

Let’s flyNEW!yama

yama 'Let's Fly' Music Video

Singer yama, who continues to captivate many listeners with overwhelming expressiveness.

Released in April 2026, this work was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime “The Exorcist and the Shinigami (Twins in the Underworld).” It was produced in collaboration with Vaundy and has been crafted into an emotional number themed around the protagonists’ departure on their journey.

Yama’s soft yet strong vocals beautifully align with the story’s grand worldview.

It’s a perfect song to listen to when taking a step into a new environment.

Let’s Go HanafudaNEW!Za Rīsaru Weponzu

[MV] Let's Go Hanafuda / The Lethal Weapons

The single released by The Lethal Weapons on April 18, 2026 is a dance tune themed around the traditional Japanese card game Hanafuda.

It brilliantly fuses Japanese elements with disco sounds, instantly lifting your spirits the moment you hear it.

The lyrics, written by member Aikid, express his feelings for Hanafuda, which his grandfather taught him when he was a child.

It’s a fun, upbeat number that showcases their unique humor and musicality.

OliveNEW!Kawasaki Takaya

Takaya Kawasaki - Olive [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Singer-songwriter Takaya Kawasaki, who has won strong support for his husky vocals and lyrics that resonate with everyday life.

The single “Olive,” released digitally on April 17, 2026, arrived ahead of major milestone concerts at Osaka-jo Hall and Nippon Budokan in May of the same year.

Its lyrics portray a firm resolve to move forward despite anxiety and loneliness, offering encouragement to those striving toward their goals.

The sound, carrying a quiet tension and an expansive emotional sweep, strikes a deep chord.

megaphoneNEW!Hayase Noeru (FRUITS ZIPPER)

megaphone

“Megaphone,” digitally released in April 2026 by Noel Hayase—who is active as a member of FRUITS ZIPPER—is a landmark track marking her first step as a solo artist.

Written and composed by Hayase herself, the song is an introspective yet high-energy rock number.

Its message—pushing forward past dissatisfaction with society and the truths we keep hidden inside—resonates powerfully with listeners.

Give it a listen when you want to set repressed emotions free.