RAG Musicartist
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.

Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni. (1–10)

I can’t be rightzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

ZUTOMAYO - “Can’t Be Right” Music Video (Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni.)
I can’t be rightzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Artists who emerged from the internet have now become indispensable for catching trends.

Among them, Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni (ZUTOMAYO) is known for their highly distinctive songs.

Their 2020 release “Tadashiku Narenai” was selected as the theme song for the film The Promised Neverland.

It features a dramatic sound with resonant strings and synth tones.

ACAね’s high-pitched voice, which conveys a bittersweet emotion, is a must-listen.

TAIDADAzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Featured as the ending theme for the anime “Dandadan,” adapted from a popular Weekly Shonen Jump manga, this track is packed with ZUTOMAYO’s distinctive worldview.

It’s included on the mini-album “Koke no Ichinen Kaiba ni Takusu,” released in October 2024.

Characterized by delicate electropop textures and a driving sense of speed, ACAne’s translucent vocals resonate deeply.

The lyrics depict self-defense mechanisms, emotional suppression, and conflict with societal rules, showcasing ZUTOMAYO’s signature lyrical power.

It’s a recommended song for when you want to immerse yourself in a mysterious atmosphere or confront your inner emotions.

Make sure you study up, okay?zutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

ZUTOMAYO - “Study Me” Music Video (Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni. - O Benkyou Shitoite yo)
Make sure you study up, okay?zutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Songs that go viral online are often super upbeat, right? Among them, the one with an irresistibly funky groove is “O-Benkyo Shitoite yo.” It’s included on ZUTOMAYO’s 2021 release, “Gusare.” A classical-tinged melody line rings out over an R&B-style, rhythmical tempo.

It’s a sound hip-hop lovers won’t be able to resist.

A danceable track you’ll want to get lost in while savoring its technical performance.

All of them are classmates reunionzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni. “Aitsura Zen’in Dousoukai” MV (ZUTOMAYO – Inside Joke)
All of them are classmates reunionzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

A song I recommend to anyone tired of relationships at work or school is “Aitsura Zen’in Dousoukai” (“All of Them at the Reunion”).

It was released in 2021 by the music unit Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni.

and was featured in a “Spotify Brand/Premium” TV commercial.

The catchy guitar and strings set to a groovy disco- and funk-inspired rhythm are addictive.

Also keep an ear out for ACA-ne’s skillful delivery of the irony-tinged lyrics.

If you like dazzling pop, definitely give it a listen.

Stop overthinking it.zutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

ZUTOMAYO – “Hunch Gray” MV (Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni.)
Stop overthinking it.zutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Yoru-kōsei artists are known for songs that depict delicate emotions.

“Kangurei,” included on the music unit ZUTOMAYO’s 2021 release Gusare, is a number that captures subtle emotional shifts.

It was selected as the theme song for the mystery project Project:;Cold.

The track features a tight, groovy sound highlighted by its shining bassline.

Its catchy melody, which envelops the song’s mysterious worldview, is also striking.

If you enjoy funk or R&B, be sure to give it a listen.

buddy-buddy servezutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

ZUTOMAYO – “Nareai Serve” Lyric Video (I Wish It Could Stay Midnight Forever – Nareai Serve)
buddy-buddy servezutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Known by the abbreviation “Zutomayo,” the music unit Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni.

has won strong support—especially among younger listeners—for their modern arrangements.

The track “Nareae Serve,” included on their third album Jinkōgaku, kicks off with an aggressive, bass-forward opening that immediately amps up the energy.

Many listeners will likely relate to its cynical lyrics, delivered over a sharp, hysteric ensemble with a distinct edge.

It’s a stylish pop tune with a sense of speed that’s sure to hype up any karaoke session.

trespassingzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

Zutomayo – “Trespassing” MV (ZUTOMAYO – Intrusion)
trespassingzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.

ZUTOMAYO (Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni.), the music unit fronted by vocalist ACA-ne, created the song “Unauthorized Entry” as the theme for the documentary program Today, I Fell in Love.

“Unauthorized entry” refers to someone entering without permission.

In the lyrics, it expresses the conflicting feelings of finding someone who slips into your heart uninvited both dear and worth rejecting at the same time.

As you listen, pay attention to the distinctive vocal style featuring scoops and vocal turns.

In conclusion

From the three “yorukosei” artists we featured, I introduced must-hear classics that are especially popular.

Haven’t you fallen in love with the night-loving sound yourself by now? They share common traits—going viral from the internet and having irresistibly catchy songs—but each has its own unique charm, right? Which “yorukosei” artist is your favorite? If you found one you like, be sure to take your time exploring the tracks by these artists that we couldn’t cover in this article!