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Lovely artist

[Viral Online] A roundup of must-listen tracks by night-pop artists

Have you heard of the term “yoru-kōsei artists”? It refers to three acts: YOASOBI, Yorushika, and Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni (ZUTOMAYO).

They share common traits: their names include the word for “night” (yoru), they exploded in popularity online, and their songs are catchy with powerful vocals.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of popular songs from these three groups that are currently buzzing.

Of course, even with these similarities, each artist has their own distinct charm—see if you can spot the differences! After you’ve listened to all the songs featured here, you just might become a yoru-kōsei fan yourself.

YOASOBI(1〜10)

SeventeenYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Seventeen” Official Music Video
SeventeenYOASOBI

YOASOBI is a music duo that has released many songs with complex structures, such as Yoru ni Kakeru, Sangenshoku, and Monster.

Their track Seventeen is a number where their high-level songwriting skills are on full display.

In particular, the whirlwind structure—with key changes in the chorus and rhythm shifts in the interlude—is so advanced that no one but them could pull it off.

And the vocals by ikura, who masterfully delivers such a complex song, are so overwhelmingly powerful that you can’t help but be amazed!

BlessingYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'The Blessing' Official Music Video (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury Opening Theme)
BlessingYOASOBI

This song, “Blessing,” is characterized by a beautiful melody where poignancy and a solid beat blend exquisitely.

It maintains a comfortable rhythmic feel throughout, but there are sudden jumps to high notes, so you might need some practice there.

With its unique melody and sense of drive in harmony, it’s a track that’s sure to hype up the room at karaoke—and definitely boost your reputation.

It’s also well known as the theme song for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, so it’ll be even more exciting if you’re with fellow anime fans!

EncoreYOASOBI

YOASOBI "Encore" Official Music Video
EncoreYOASOBI

Many of you may have heard it since it was used in a smartphone commercial.

“Encore” is a work based on Mio Shimosuiba’s novel The End of the World and the Farewell Song.

It features a gently paced rhythm and a somewhat fleeting, fragile vocal—its melody feels like it squeezes your heart.

The lyrics, which look back on days spent with someone dear, also resonate with a bittersweet sorrow.

It’s the kind of song that makes you think, “If the world were to end tomorrow, what would I do?”

YOASOBI(11〜20)

excessively earnest; overly serious to a fault; straight-lacedCreepy Nuts×Ayase×Ikuta Rira

Creepy Nuts × Ayase × Rira Ikuta / Baka Majime “Do You Remember That Night” Special Video
excessively earnest; overly serious to a fault; straight-lacedCreepy Nuts×Ayase×Ikuta Rira

Ayase, the composer of YOASOBI, and ikura, the vocalist—known for hit songs like “Racing into the Night” and “Monster”—have teamed up with Creepy Nuts, a leading force in Japan’s hip-hop scene, for the collaboration track “Bakamajime.” It’s a perfect song for a fresh start.

Its message—if you don’t give up on earnestly doing your best, even if you’re clumsy, the path will open—will surely ease the anxieties of those struggling on a new stage in life.

Trace that dreamYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Tracing That Dream” Official Music Video
Trace that dreamYOASOBI

Fireworks you look up at with someone you love… it’s a summer love song that fills you with nostalgia.

This track was created based on Sota Ishiki’s novel “Yume no Shizuku to Hoshi no Hana,” and was released digitally in January 2020.

With a fast-paced sound that features piano—so characteristic of YOASOBI—it feels great to listen to.

Ikura’s vocals are easy on the ears, almost like they clear the skies of your heart.

The lyric’s romantic worldview is sure to resonate, especially with teens.

HarukaYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video
HarukaYOASOBI

It’s a piece that makes your steps feel lighter and fills you with happiness when you listen.

Haruka was produced based on the novel Tsuki Oji by broadcast writer Osamu Suzuki.

The lyrics, which gently whisper, “Even if things are tough, you’ll be okay,” really tug at the heart.

Of course, not every single day is full of good things.

If you listen to this song at a moment when you’re feeling a bit worn out, it might help you feel positive again.

Be sure to add it to your playlist!

ultramarineYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video
ultramarineYOASOBI

This song was created based on the manga Blue Period, a story about young people confronting art.

Released in 2020, its emotional musicality resonated deeply with listeners.

The sing-along vocal phrases make your heart swell.

The lyrics, centered on the idea of “being yourself,” are sure to strike a chord especially with the younger generation sprinting through their youth right now.

If you listen to it when you’re feeling anxious about the future or weighed down by worries, it will surely help you.