[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 (51–60)
SandeliaLAY
One song that’s been getting a lot of buzz after being picked for BAY-FM’s Power Play in March 2023 is “Sanderia.” It’s the debut single by Lay, a next-generation artist who debuted at 14 in 2023.
The track was featured on various radio shows and quickly caught on.
By the way, it was also a recommended track on Kiss FM KOBE for March.
Since it’s been getting a ton of radio airtime, if you’ve been curious, take this opportunity to give it another listen.
Its American vibe and intense guitar sound are part of its appeal.
Friday’s highPenthouse
A city-soul track by Penthouse, released digitally in January 2024.
It was featured in a Nissan X-TRAIL e-4ORCE commercial.
The six-piece band of University of Tokyo alumni delivers a refined, urban sound.
The twin vocals of Shintaro Namioka and Maho Oshima weave a soulful harmony that feels great.
With lyrics capturing the thrill of the weekend, it’s the kind of song you’ll want to play on Friday night after work.
Perfect for blowing off steam or turning up the energy at a party with friends.
maximum speedSHISHAMO
Written and composed by Asako Miyazaki to match the theme of “a place where everyone can shine,” the song was released digitally in January 2024 and chosen as the tie-in track for the BOAT RACE 2024 commercial series.
Carrying a message of charging forward with faith in oneself over an aggressive melody, this piece stands out.
SHISHAMO formed in 2010 in their high school light music club and have since gained experience through numerous live shows and albums.
It’s a perfect track especially for those living life at a fast pace.
Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts
A razor-sharp rap and an irresistible killer tune that makes you perk up and listen.
Released digitally in January 2024, this track was chosen as the opening theme for season 2 of the anime Mashle: Magic and Muscles.
Its confidence-boosting lyrics and danceable beat are striking, and just listening to it fills you with energy.
It’s gained popularity not only in Japan but overseas as well, entering the Billboard Global 200.
What’s more, the THE FIRST TAKE video surpassed 10 million views in just four days after its release.
Give it a listen when you’re feeling low or need to fire yourself up.
ANTENNAMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE is a three-piece rock band garnering attention from a wide range of listeners with a colorful catalog that reflects their diverse backgrounds.
ANTENNA, the title track and opener of their fifth album, leaves a lasting impression with its catchy synths and hysteric guitar ensemble.
The whirlwind of key changes in the arrangement seems to capture the mix of anticipation and anxiety toward an unseen future, as depicted in the lyrics.
It’s a refreshing rock tune marked by a hook-laden melody.
prettyfine 🙂Re:name
The song selected for FM802’s March 2023 Heavy Rotation is “prettyfine :)”.
It’s a track by Re:name, a three-piece rock band from Osaka.
Premiered on FM802, it quickly became a popular tune.
The song’s appeal lies in vocalist Kazunari Takagi’s ultra-high voice and its chill, laid-back melody.
It’s the kind of piece that naturally relaxes you as you listen.
Immerse yourself in its one-of-a-kind, mysterious world.
Chururi (feat. Takako Matsu)yuzu
This song, sung by Yuzu and Takako Matsu, is a heartwarming piece filled with nostalgia and bittersweet emotion.
The gentle vocals, which seem to tenderly embrace the feeling of longing for someone dear as memories surface in everyday life, leave a strong impression.
Released digitally in November 2024, it was also used as the theme song for the Nissan Sakura commercial.
The trio’s collaboration on Fuji TV’s 2024 FNS Music Festival drew significant attention as well.
When you find yourself feeling wistful as you think of someone, why not give this song a listen? It’s sure to offer comfort to your heart.
Am I ready?Hinatazaka46
Hinatazaka46, the idol group that changed its name from Keyakizaka46 in 2019, has won popularity with a classic-idol image paired with a fearless, hands-on approach on variety shows.
Their 10th single’s title track, “Am I ready?”, also drew attention for the cute bunny-ear dance in its music video.
The ensemble, brimming with freshness and glamour, creates a crisp, refreshing feel that’s perfect for the pre-summer season.
It’s a pop tune that’s both quintessential and modern, ideally suited for the hot months.
Useless crossjo0ji
Set in a fishing port town in Tottori Prefecture, a song themed around a friend’s heartbreak was released in July 2024.
Created by jo0ji, it features an impressive sound that fuses power and poignancy.
Both the melody and lyrics are crafted to portray the friend’s strength and story of renewal.
A grand, end-credits-style finale is another highlight.
It’s like an anthem to a friend who has overcome the pain of a breakup and learned to laugh it off.
The track has earned high praise across the board, including selection for FM802’s Heavy Rotation.
It might be the perfect song when you’re sorting out your feelings or trying to look forward.
Last NoteOmoinotake
This song by Omoinotake centers on the themes of inner conflict in modern society and the journey of self-discovery.
Written as the theme song for the drama “Undercover Siblings: Special Fraud Task Force,” it portrays the inner struggles and duality of human nature.
Set to a serious, heartrending melody, it delicately depicts the emotions of people today who find it hard to live authentically, resonating with many listeners.
Released for streaming in October 2024, the track has further raised Omoinotake’s profile.
It’s recommended for those feeling worn out by daily life or looking to face themselves.