RAG Musicartist
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[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.

Yorushika (1–10)

Only for you, clear skiesYorushika

Yorushika – Just Clear Skies for You (MUSIC VIDEO)
Only for you, clear skiesYorushika

It might hit even harder when you listen to it as an adult.

“Tada Kimi ni Hare” is a track included on the 2018 mini-album ‘Makeinu ni Encore wa Iranai.’ It’s a rock number with a refreshing feel, yet the lyrics and melody evoke a nostalgic world.

Centered on thoughts of a precious “you,” it’s highly relatable.

You probably have someone like that in your life too, don’t you?

That’s Why I Gave Up MusicYorushika

Yorushika – That’s Why I Gave Up on Music (Music Video)
That's Why I Gave Up MusicYorushika

It’s the title track from their first album, released in 2019.

The sound arrangement is rhythmic, yet the emotions riding on top of it are deeply moving—enough to bring you to tears.

As the title suggests, the song traces the protagonist’s feelings up to the moment they quit music, and that narrative links together when you listen to the entire album.

So I recommend considering buying the album.

It’s an overwhelming piece in which Yorushika’s literary sensibility and musicality are densely distilled.

Spring ThiefYorushika

Yorushika – Spring Thief (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
Spring ThiefYorushika

I can’t wait for spring to come, and yet there’s a certain sadness… This is a work that shakes your emotions to the core as you listen.

“Harudorobo” (Spring Thief) is a song released digitally in 2021, and it drew attention for being featured in a construction company’s commercial.

Its arrangement offers a refreshing sound with lightly ringing acoustic guitars… and yet it’s not something you can simply call a “breezy” song; it’s a number with a deeply rich worldview.

That may stem from the message in the lyrics, which liken “life” to “petals.”

451Yorushika

Yorushika – 451 (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
451Yorushika

Yorushika is a musical duo consisting of vocalist suis and composer n-buna.

One of the pieces included in the music art collection Gento that they created is 451.

Its biggest distinguishing feature is that n-buna handles the vocals.

You can enjoy a different vibe from Yorushika’s previous songs.

Savor his high-tone voice.

Overall, the track has a chill atmosphere, making it a good fit for when you want to relax.

Setting SunYorushika

YOASOBI – Setting Sun (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
Setting SunYorushika

Yorushika is a two-piece rock band that keeps detailed profiles private so that the creators don’t step out in front of their work.

Their 15th digital-only single, “Shayou,” was written as the opening theme for the TV anime The Dangers in My Heart.

Its open, liberating melody and refreshing ensemble evoke the arrival of summer just by listening.

With a laid-back melody that makes it easy to sing at karaoke, it’s a stylish pop tune.

Indigo squaredYorushika

Yorushika – Blue Squared (Music Video)
Indigo squaredYorushika

If you’re looking for a rock-leaning track from a “yoru-preferring” (night-loving) artist, I recommend Aini Jō.

It’s included on the 2019 release That’s Why I Gave Up on Music by the rock band Yorushika.

It features a refreshing rock sound that races through the youthfulness of adolescence.

Pay attention to vocalist suis, who delivers poetic, scene-evoking lyrics with emotion.

Be sure to give this rock number a listen—the technical, fast-paced guitar work is a major draw.

Ghost in the FlowersYorushika

Yorushika – Ghost in a Flower (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
Ghost in the FlowersYorushika

This song was chosen as the theme for the film “A Whisker Away.” It’s a moving piece that opens with a transparent, piano-driven intro and unfolds with a soaring sense of release.

What really catches the ear is the guitar sound.

Its tone stands in contrast to the vocals and other timbres, making it feel as if overflowing emotions have been packed into that sonic image.

Unforgettable summer memories… Why is it that Yorushika’s work stirs such deep nostalgia? Highly recommended for listening alone, taking your time.