![[2026] Latest and Noteworthy J-Pop R&B Tracks](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/OSGWOWdWdt4/maxresdefault.webp)
When you hear Japanese R&B, what kinds of artists or bands come to mind?
While many people know them through J-pop hits, there have actually been artists since the Showa era who possess genuine R&B skills, with outstanding vocals and melodic sensibilities.
Even now in the 2020s, artists who transcend the boundaries between Japanese and Western music are creating amazing tracks, while staying connected to the latest overseas R&B scene.
In this article, we’ve rounded up must-check new songs to help you get to know the latest Japanese R&B scene in a broad sense.
We hope not only fans of Japanese music but also fans of Western music will give them a listen!
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[2026] Latest and Noteworthy J‑Pop R&B Songs (1–10)
ROCK THE BOATNEW!XG
How about losing yourself in the supreme groove that revives the sleek vibes of ’90s R&B for today? Crafted by the globally active XG, this track builds on a classic old-school foundation while layering in their signature hip-hop essence.
Featured on their long-awaited first full-length album THE CORE – 核, released in January 2026, it’s also been making waves with a music video shot on location through a partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board.
The lyrics, using waves and the sea as motifs to portray the ebb and flow of relationships, leave a strong impression and will make you want to surrender to the soothing beat.
Be sure to check it out alongside the visuals, which highlight the stunning beauty of the locations.
25eill
Eill is a female singer-songwriter from Tokyo, born in 1998.
Influenced by Korean music from a young age, she has drawn attention for her clear, crystalline voice and a vocal style reminiscent of K-pop.
Her latest song, “25,” released in February 2024, debuted alongside a music video directed by eill herself, delicately portraying the shifting emotions of being 25 years old.
The lyrics express the gap between dreams and reality, the changes happening around her and her own place within them, as well as the beauty and complexity of life—elements that are sure to resonate with listeners of the same generation.
The expressive power eill showcases in “25” raises high expectations for her musical journey ahead.
It’s a song we especially recommend to people in their twenties who value staying true to themselves while taking on new challenges.
BodyMaliya
Singer-songwriter MALIYA, based in Tokyo, has crafted a unique style rooted in ’90s R&B and soul, interweaving elements of jazz and contemporary future soul.
Having collaborated with many artists, including WONK and KANDYTOWN, she released her new single “Body” on March 8, 2024.
Arranged by TOMOKO IDA—the first Japanese female producer to be nominated for a Grammy—the track was unveiled to coincide with International Women’s Day.
With a strong message celebrating women’s independence and self-respect, the song showcases MALIYA’s beautiful voice in even greater brilliance.
Take It BackReiko
REIKO’s new track features an irresistibly groovy beat that reimagines ’90s US R&B for today.
Riding on her supple yet powerful vocals, it delivers a message of freeing yourself from the expectations of society and those around you.
Released in April 2025 and produced by Sam is Ohm, this song marks the beginning of REIKO’s “R&B Trilogy” and stands as a pivotal first chapter.
It’s the kind of song that gently gives you a push when you want to boost your self-esteem.
Cherry Blossom Bloom DeclarationNEW!Aile The Shota
Singer-songwriter Aile The Shota, who has roots in R&B and draws attention with a sophisticated musicality.
Produced by Shin Sakiura, this track was released in January 2026 as the lead single ahead of the second album “REAL POP 2,” scheduled for February 2026.
Its sound reimagines late-’80s New Jack Swing through a modern lens, brimming with a groove that gets your body moving from the intro.
The lyrics feel like a declaration of breaking out of one’s shell and stepping onto a new stage, likely delivering positive energy to listeners.
Brimming with euphoria, it’s a dance number that gives a gentle push to anyone gearing up for a new challenge as spring approaches.
hugiri
Singer-songwriter iri, hailing from Kanagawa Prefecture.
After winning the grand prize at an audition in 2014, she has earned high acclaim for seamlessly singing over beats that reflect HIP HOP/R&B sensibilities and uplifting dance tracks.
“hug” is a piano ballad released digitally in January 2024, written as the campaign song for JR SKISKI.
Its lyrics—juxtaposing lost days, fragile bonds, and a heart that keeps waiting across time with a yearning for a world of falling white and the changing seasons—showcase iri’s luminous poetic expression.
It’s a warm, gently companionable track that’s perfect for the winter season.
LOVE DEEPER (Prod. m.c.A•T)Reiko
This is a track by REIKO that inscribes a new page in the history of Japanese R&B.
It drew attention for officially sampling “Ryusei no Saddle,” a classic from Toshinobu Kubota’s landmark 1986 album SHAKE IT PARADISE.
The fact that Kubota himself—the original composer—praised it as “several times funkier than the source” speaks to its exceptional quality.
When you want to savor love anew, listening to this song will surely fill you with a gentle, tender feeling.