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

HOWLAyumu Imazu

Ayumu Imazu – HOWL [Music Video]

Singer-songwriter Ayumu Imazu, who has been immersed in music since childhood and honed his craft while studying in New York, is drawing attention for his versatility—handling everything from songwriting and composition to dance choreography himself.

This track, newly written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Let’s Go to Karaoke!” and set for release in July 2025, pairs a driving, night-run energy with an emotive melody for a distinctly stylish vibe.

The song portrays the unique struggles of adolescence and the complex feelings that mix the joy and confusion of being needed by someone, drawing listeners in with its delicate expression.

This dance number, which balances coolness and pop appeal, is sure to lift your mood—perfect for listening on your commute to school.

ObsessedAyumu Imazu

Ayumu Imazu – Obsessed [Music Video]

Ayumu Imazu, who writes and composes his own songs and even choreographs his dances, is drawing attention as a Gen Z global artist.

His release from January 2024 is a pop tune themed around the sweet, bittersweet feeling of falling for someone right away.

While bewildered by his own tendency to fall in love easily, he expresses in down-to-earth words how he becomes more and more captivated when the other person seems too perfect.

Before its official release, the demo went viral on TikTok, and it sparked a worldwide boom after top Asian artists—starting with SEVENTEEN—showcased the dance.

Its laid-back, chill sound and pleasant melody also make it a perfect BGM to liven up conversations with friends.

Secret GardenBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Secret Garden -Music Video-

This track, rooted in 2010s R&B and marked by a groovy, sophisticated sound, is a song by BE:FIRST produced by SKY-HI.

Created together with renowned LA producers, it seems to portray secret moments with someone special, but in fact it sings of their deep love for music itself.

The lyrics, which express respect for music through the metaphor of romance, are sure to spark the listener’s imagination.

Released in August 2025, it was also featured in a Unilever campaign.

The song is included on the single “Sora” and their first best-of album “BE:ST.” It’s an urban, mellow number that’s perfect for when you want to feel just a bit more grown-up.

chameleonKing Gnu

King Gnu – Chameleon

King Gnu, who lead the J-pop scene with each member’s outstanding musicianship and wide-ranging musicality.

Although they’re beloved even by listeners who don’t usually listen to rock, this work is a bittersweet yet beautiful ballad written as the theme song for the drama “Don’t Call It Mystery” starring Masaki Suda.

The song portrays the contrast between the “true self” everyone has and the “face we show others,” as well as the inner conflicts hidden deep in the heart, making you feel as if you’re facing your own feelings as you listen.

Released as a single in March 2022, it has been loved for a long time, surpassing 300 million streams.

It might be the perfect track to listen to on the train to school while lost in thought.

Bedroom TalkOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Bedroom Talk [Official Lyric Video]

This track, co-arranged with mabanua, is perfect for late-night vibes.

It’s included on the album “Editorial,” released in August 2021, and was written and composed by guitarist Daisuke Ozasa.

For Official HIGE DANDism, it’s a slightly unusual but pleasantly neo-soul-tinged number.

Its laid-back beat and mellow melody feel like they gently wrap away the fatigue of the day.

The song depicts the importance of stepping away from social media and outside voices to face your own heart on a quiet night, or to have an honest conversation with someone you care about.

It’s recommended for when you want to relax in your room after studying, or spend a peaceful moment in a café.

A stylish, warm song that softly stays by your side.

bergamotTomonari Sora

Tomonari Sora – “Bergamot” [Lyric Video]

Sora Tomonari, born in 2002, is a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter who handles everything himself—from writing and composing to the artwork.

His refined, genre-defying sensibility is truly remarkable.

Released in February 2025, this work features a stylish, contemporary city-pop-inspired track with a groovy bassline that feels great, serving up plenty of cool beats to savor.

The song tells the story of a protagonist living amid the bustle of the city, whose fleeting whiff of a passerby’s fragrance triggers the return of an unforgettable love.

The loneliness behind a glamorous daily life and the bittersweet pull of the past are artfully expressed through lyrics rich in wordplay.

It’s the kind of track that elevates your mood before you head out dressed up on a weekend night.

world standardwāsuta

Wa-Suta (WASUTA) “World Standard”

Wasshoi’s new song carries a message of embracing diverse values while cherishing your true self.

In a rapidly changing world, it conveys a stance of redefining what “standard” means and pursuing their own identity.

Scheduled for release in February 2025, the track celebrates the 10th anniversary of their debut.

The music video leaves a strong impression with the members dancing on sets inspired by locations around the world.

It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to keep moving forward without fearing change.