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 Playing on the Radio (21–30)

Me? I’m such a catch..BPM

[Become a Better Woman by Listening!?] 'Me, Like, Such a Good Woman' Music Video /.BPM (Dot BPM) [Theme Song for the Drama 'Batsukoi']

Me? I'm such a catch..BPM

It’s a track with an impressive, positive message.

Released in October 2024, it’s a .BPM song that was chosen as the opening theme for the drama “Batsu Koi.” With positive lyrics about self-esteem in love and a light, catchy rhythm, it’s an instant mood booster.

If you’re struggling with romance or want to build your confidence, be sure to add it to your playlist!

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Raijin Fuujin – ResonanceBUCK-TICK

BUCK-TICK / Raijin Fujin – RESONANCE MUSIC VIDEO

Raijin Fuujin - ResonanceBUCK-TICK

An up-tempo tour de force from BUCK-TICK, the rock band hailing from Gunma Prefecture.

Featuring striking twin vocals by Hisashi Imai and Hidehiko Hoshino, the track was also selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “DayDay.” for the month of November.

Its theme centers on the strength and resolve to survive even in difficult circumstances, and the importance of living with passion.

The lyrics, which convey a powerful sense of ascent and exhilaration, are sure to resonate.

Released on November 20, 2024, the song is also included on the album “Subrosa SUBROSA,” out December 4 of the same year.

With a diverse musical palette—including a remix version—it’s certain to captivate a wide range of listeners.

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IlluminationB’z

B’z / Illumination

IlluminationB'z

This song features a catchy, pop rhythm that evokes the morning light.

Written specifically as the theme for the NHK morning drama “Omusubi,” it was released digitally in October 2024.

Crafted by B’z members Koshi Inaba and Tak Matsumoto, the track likens the shining moments that emerge after life’s ups and downs to “illumination,” kindling a hopeful light in the listener’s heart.

The anecdote of the drama’s producer being moved to tears speaks to the deep affection poured into the work.

It’s perfect not only for fans of the morning drama, but also for anyone who wants a boost to start a new day.

A heartwarming song, ideal for a refreshing morning.

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Same BlueOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Same Blue [Official Video]

Same BlueOfisharu Higedan Dism

A melody of youth that feels both nostalgic and new resonates in the heart.

It’s music that, while linking to the anime’s worldview, gently embraces the pure feelings deep within us.

Written as the opening theme for the anime starting in October, this piece is packed with the charm of Official Hige Dandism.

The piano’s tone is striking, and together with the clear, transparent vocals, it evokes a refreshing feeling like a blue sky.

While delicately portraying the struggles of love and growth, it also carries a message of moving forward with hope, which is wonderful.

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I wonderDa-iCE

Da-iCE / 'I wonder' Music Video | Theme song for the drama 'Kururi: Who Fell in Love with Me?'

I wonderDa-iCE

This is a much-talked-about song that serves as the theme for the drama “Kururi — Who Fell in Love with Me?”.

Performed by the dance-vocal group Da-iCE, it was released as a digital single in April 2024.

The lyrics delicately depict subtle emotions and leave a strong impression, while the clear, beautiful melody is captivating.

Rooted in romantic lyrics, the track also conveys a sense of strength in valuing one’s true self.

It feels like a song that can give you the courage to move forward when you’re at a crossroads in love or life.

It’s a richly satisfying work that showcases the full appeal of Da-iCE’s twin vocalists.

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Friday Nighttonun

tonun – Friday Night (Official Video)

Friday Nighttonun

If you’re looking for a song with a “Friday night” theme, you might be thinking of “Friday Night.” It’s a city pop track released by tonun, an artist immensely popular especially among teens and people in their twenties.

Amazingly, it’s been in heavy rotation on more than 39 radio stations.

Even if you haven’t heard it yet, one listen will probably convince you why it’s getting so much airplay.

By the way, the lyrics capture the bubbly excitement of Friday night.

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Stand Out ChameleonKAMEREON RAIMU UUPII PAI

Stand Out Chameleon / Chameleon Lime Whoopiepie: Official Music Video

Stand Out ChameleonKAMEREON RAIMU UUPII PAI

It’s a funky dance tune with just the right laid-back feel.

The track is by Chameleon Lime Whoopiepie, a unit known for their stylish yet humorous musicality, and it’s included on their first album “Orange,” released in April 2023.

It drew attention after being selected for heavy rotation by the radio station FM802.

One of its charms is the rhythmic arrangement that makes your body sway on its own.

I think it would be perfect as background music for a drive!

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