[Latest/Trending] A roundup of popular Japanese songs among teens and people in their 20s

evening primroseNovelbright

Novelbright – Evening Primrose [Official Music Video]

This ballad, which portrays a love you can’t forget even after a breakup, was released by Novelbright in December 2020.

It was selected as the Monthly Song for the weather segment of Fuji TV’s information program “Tokudane!” in February, and the band also appeared live on the show.

The grand arrangement woven by piano and strings is layered with Yudai Takenaka’s emotional high-tone vocals, creating a world that is both heartrending and beautiful.

The lyrics, which reflect on memories spent in a city at dusk and feelings for someone you can no longer meet, will deeply resonate with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

When you face parting with someone dear—carrying loneliness and regret yet trying to look forward—this song will gently stay by your side.

World’s End GirlfriendRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – World End Girlfriend [Official Music Video]

This track is included on ANTI U, the album RADWIMPS released for the first time in about four years as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of their major-label debut.

It’s a love song that shines with a nostalgic band sound.

The full-on guitar-pop arrangement and lyrical melody resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s the perfect number for moments when you want to look back on memories of love or reaffirm your feelings for someone special.

First Love Killernozomi

Noashi (noa) – First Love Killer [Official Music Video]

Singer-songwriter Noshi, who has gained popularity with her unconventional melodies and lyrics that particularly resonate with women.

Known for her genre-defying musical style, she releases songs with a different vibe from her previous work every time.

The piece she created in May 2024 could be described as a pop portrayal of the sweetness and bitterness of first love.

It’s a bittersweet story about being betrayed by someone you were infatuated with, ignoring warnings from friends and parents.

Still, we can’t help but empathize with the protagonist’s strength as she doesn’t give up and sets out to find her next love.

Even before its release, the song drew buzz on TikTok, with around 100,000 related videos posted.

It’s a cute yet slightly bitter cheer song, one that we especially want those troubled by love to hear.

PastoralAimer

Aimer “Pastoral” Music Video (Theme song for the Japanese-dubbed TV anime “The Legend of Hei”)

Released in October 2025, “Pastoral” was written as the theme song for the Japanese-dubbed version of the TV anime The Legend of Hei.

Beginning with the scene of walking while kicking a small stone, the lyrics are filled with natural motifs—clouds drifting across the sky, rain, and flowers—enveloping the song in a pastoral worldview.

Depicting bonds that remain connected even when apart, relationships tied by invisible threads, the piece’s message is further highlighted by Aimer’s emotional vocals.

It might be a perfect listen when you want to relax.

Heartbeat of the Starskohanaramu

Heartbeat of the Stars

The bittersweetness of youth and the wavering of first love are portrayed atop a clear, translucent melody.

It’s a track by Kohanaramu, slated for digital release in October 2025, and it’s been selected as the ending theme for the TV anime “Tomodachi no Imouto ga Ore ni Dake Uzai” (My Friend’s Little Sister Is Only Annoying to Me).

The lyrics capture feelings of being unable to be honest even when you’re close, and the emotions that tremble deep in your chest, closely reflecting the heart of someone in love.

The arrangement also carries a nostalgic touch that feels wonderfully comforting.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling timid about love.