[2026] A roundup of popular Japanese songs currently playing on the radio
Do you usually listen to the radio?
Maybe you hear it as in-store background music, or if you drive for work you might have the car stereo on, and these days you can even listen on smartphone apps.
It may be the age of the internet, but I think radio is still very much a part of our daily lives.
This time, we’re introducing popular Japanese songs that have been getting airplay on recent radio shows!
If you want to check the latest trends or find out which tracks are on power play, this is for you!
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[2026] Summary of Popular Japanese Songs Recently Played on the Radio (111–120)
ElfAdo
This song, painted with a fairy-like, fantastical worldview, centers on the strength and determination to move forward.
Through the loneliness of elves—mythical beings—and the eternity of life, it conveys universal messages about farewells and rebirth on life’s journey, as well as self-affirmation.
Ado’s powerful vocals and delicate expressiveness further elevate the song’s world.
Chosen as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Who Watched the Peacock’s Dance?” which began in January 2025, it beautifully mirrors the emotions of the protagonist played by Suzu Hirose.
It’s a track that gives you courage when you’re on the verge of losing your way or about to take a new step.
ReawakeRLiSA
A collaboration between LiSA and Stray Kids’ Felix.
It brilliantly captures the world of the anime “Solo Leveling.” The track fuses powerful rock with electronic elements, gripping listeners and never letting go.
Selected as the opening theme for the anime airing from January 2025, with a CD single release in March.
Recommended not only for anime fans but also for anyone who loves energetic music.
It’s sure to be a song you’ll want to play again and again.
YOU GOTTA RUNL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
A heart-stirring track has arrived! This new song by L’Arc~en~Ciel is an up-tempo rock number themed around challenge and self-transcendence.
Its musicality fuses a catchy melody with a hard-edged sound that will set listeners’ hearts racing.
It’s also used as the opening theme for the anime BEYBLADE X, and its lyrics—mirroring the protagonists’ growth—are sure to encourage children’s dreams and hopes.
Scheduled for release in January 2025, this song delivers a powerful message that will push people forward as they face new challenges.
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s latest work is a song that powerfully portrays the struggles of youth.
It sings about the journey to find your true self and resonates deeply with listeners.
Written as the theme song for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.
GREEN APPLE 18 Festival,” it was released digitally in January 2025.
The performance, featuring a collaboration with as many as 1,000 18-year-olds, generated major buzz.
It’s a track we especially recommend to those in the midst of self-discovery or feeling crushed by others’ expectations—you’re sure to find courage in it!
pyramid[Alexandros]
![pyramid[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QKrNZmyNCQg/sddefault.jpg)
A track has arrived where powerful rock resonance intertwines with a poignant vocal! [Alexandros]’s new song portrays people who keep challenging their own limits.
It conveys the importance of moving forward step by step and the strength to overcome hardship.
Set for CD single release in February 2025, it’s also the theme song for a TV Asahi drama.
The story, set in the financial industry, perfectly matches the song’s message.
It’s a must-listen for anyone striving toward their dreams or looking to take on something new!
Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu
Southern All Stars’ new song is themed around cherry blossoms, a symbol of spring’s arrival.
Set to a breezy sound that evokes the gentle spring wind, it layers hope onto the fragile yet beautiful sakura blossoms.
Released as a digital-only lead single from the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH” on January 1, 2025, the track was announced on the first anniversary of the Noto Peninsula earthquake, a timing believed to reflect sentiments for the disaster-affected areas.
With a finish that conveys the seasonality of spring and the sensibility of Japan, it’s recommended for anyone who wants to feel the arrival of a new season.
Like the tower standing in that skyOizumi Yo
A song released for streaming in October 2023 by Hokkaido-born star Yo Oizumi, who is active as a talent and actor.
It was composed and produced by Koji Tamaki, an artist from the same hometown.
You can feel Tamaki’s signature style in Oizumi’s singing—warm and evocative—creating a world that fans of that sound will undoubtedly love.
The lyrics, centered around a tower from his hometown, were written by Oizumi himself, deepening a nostalgic, heartfelt longing.
It’s a ballad that gently warms the heart during the chilly autumn and winter seasons.
