Lovely hit song

[2026] A roundup of popular Japanese songs currently playing on the radio

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

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!

[2026] Summary of Popular Japanese Songs Recently Played on the Radio (111–120)

Something like “happy”Sabasusutā

Sabasister – “Happy Nante” Music Video

Something like “happy”Sabasusutā

This track by Sabasister sings about the importance of finding happiness tucked away in everyday life.

With its positive message and bright melody, it’s perfect for ringing in the New Year.

Set for digital release on January 1, 2025, it’s tied in with au’s New Year commercial.

Recommended for people leading busy lives or those who tend to overlook small joys, this song is sure to lift your spirits at the start of a new year.

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NEW LOOKMISAMO

MISAMO「NEW LOOK」Music Video

NEW LOOKMISAMO

A song themed around self-realization through fashion.

Its captivating world is inspired by the 1960s icon Twiggy.

Released by MISAMO in October 2024, this work is a cover of a Namie Amuro song and was issued as the lead single from the album “Haute Couture.” Blending a retro vibe with modern arrangements, it showcases MISAMO’s distinctive expressive power.

Perfect for those who want to discover a new version of themselves or who love fashion, it’s a track that resonates with young women exploring their individuality.

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I like it a little.Yabai T-shatsu Yasan

Yabai T-Shirts Yasan – [LIVE] “Suko.” from “Solving the Secrets of Spain ONE-MAN SHOW” at Shima Spain Village ~The Revenge~

I like it a little.Yabai T-shatsu Yasan

This track is by Yabai T-Shirts Yasan, a band known for pop-punk with a comical, fun vibe that really hits home, and it’s included on their September 2024 single “Spain no Himitsu 2.” Written as the ending theme for the anime “Murai’s Love,” the song features a distinctly poppy, energetic sound.

The clever turns of phrase in the lyrics are sure to make you grin.

It’s a unique love song whose clumsy yet pure feelings resonate with the heart.

It even uses dog breed names, so animal lovers may find it especially relatable.

The lyrics portray the emotions and confusion racing through your head when you fall in love, reminding you of a feeling everyone has experienced at least once!

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escalateAimer

Aimer “escalate” MUSIC VIDEO & CROSSFADE (Anime “NieR:Automata Ver1.1a” Opening Theme)

escalateAimer

Aimer, whose recent appearance on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen is still fresh in our memories, released ‘escalate’ in 2023, a track that’s been a hot topic on the radio.

The song was originally written as the opening theme for the anime ‘NieR:Automata Ver1.1a.’ It portrays the anime’s dark worldview and the protagonists’ despair.

Beyond her remarkable vocals, the heavy bass sound also evokes the atmosphere of the anime, resulting in a piece that fully captures its world.

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globeYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Spinning Globe

globeYonezu Kenshi

Singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu continues to dominate the J-pop scene with his original worldview and modern musical sensibilities.

His 14th single, “Spinning Globe,” written as the theme song for the Studio Ghibli film The Boy and the Heron, links beautifully with its title through delicate piano tones and expansive, dreamlike strings.

The lyrics, which depict the preciousness of living through time as we move forward despite repeated meetings and partings, are likely to prompt many listeners to reflect on their own lives.

It’s an emotional number, with a voice that conveys strength within gentleness and shakes the heart.

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Hoshino Takashi

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