Instagram: Classic and Popular Recommended Music for Reels
One of the most important Instagram features to master is Reels.
It’s an essential tool for showcasing your account.
It’s common to add music to each Reel, but many people may struggle to figure out what’s trending.
For those people, I’d like to introduce some recommended songs you can use in Reels.
I’ll be covering not only Japanese music but also Western tracks, so you can match them to a variety of posts.
Be sure to find the tracks that suit you!
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- Songs that hype you up just by listening—recommended tracks from timeless classics to the latest releases
[Instagram] Classic and Popular Recommended Music for Reels (41–50)
CurtainsEd Sheeran
About 10 years ago, hip-hop in Japan had the image of being music favored by people into subcultures.
Nowadays, hip-hop has spread widely and is becoming popular as one of the top genres.
I bet there are plenty of heads even among junior high school students.
A track I’d recommend to those junior high heads is “MOTTO,” a song by NF, known for his skillful, Eminem-evoking style.
Every flow is incredibly cool, and the rhymes hit hard, so be sure to check out both the original lyrics and Japanese translations.
[Instagram] Recommended Classic & Popular Music for Reels (51–60)
After HoursThe Weeknd
The Weeknd is an artist who releases music that fits modern sensibilities while drawing on genres like synthwave and synth-pop that were huge in the 1980s.
He’s always at the forefront of the scene with his high-class sound, and many artists in that lane tend to release catchy tracks.
But despite being a top-tier artist, The Weeknd puts out a lot of edgy work.
“After Hours,” which you often hear on Instagram Reels, is a stylish synthwave track without any conspicuous drop.
Definitely give it a listen.
dance hallMrs. GREEN APPLE
It’s a quintessential Mrs.
GREEN APPLE anthem that compares life to a grand dance hall and celebrates the importance of enjoying ourselves as we overcome any hardship.
Even in tough times, the message of “It’ll be all right,” delivered with a powerful push on the listener’s back, resonates over the dazzling sound.
This track is included on the mini-album “Unity,” released in July 2022, and was also chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi 8.
That same year, it received the Excellence Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards, making it a song that symbolizes a new chapter in their career.
Pair it with a Reel featuring memories with friends or the sparkle of everyday life, and your footage is sure to shine even brighter.
ControlZoe Wees
Zoë Wees, a German singer-songwriter whose powerful expressiveness has drawn worldwide attention.
Her work, built on a rich, full-bodied voice and nuanced delivery, never fails to move listeners.
Among her songs, the one gaining particular popularity on Instagram Reels is Control.
The song’s appeal lies in its simple yet grand track and vocals that showcase a wide expressive range.
It’s an emotionally stirring piece, making it a great choice when you want to post a Reel that tugs at the heartstrings.
Yes, with pleasure.kocchi no kento
This is a song of self-liberation that resists others’ expectations and social pressure.
Kent-san’s powerful vocals resonate with listeners.
Sung with a resolve to reclaim one’s true self, the track went viral on social media and was released in May 2024.
On TikTok, a choreography known as the “Giri-Giri Dance” gained popularity, prompting many users to post videos.
The lyrics, which express the worries and conflicts of modern society, have struck a chord with many people.
It’s a recommended track for anyone in the midst of self-discovery or concerned about how they’re perceived by others.
Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu
Oliver Tree is a musician with worldwide popularity.
Many of his releases have become mega-hits, and he’s hugely popular in today’s dance music scene.
His new track, Here We Go Again, is no exception.
It’s already been used in tons of TikTok videos, so even middle schoolers might recognize it.
With its upbeat house vibe, it’s perfect as background music for parties or trips with friends.
loveHoshino Gen
Gen Hoshino’s hit number “Koi.” It became a nationwide smash in Japan after being used as the theme song for the popular drama “We Married as a Job” (Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu).
Although it’s been quite some time since its initial success, it’s been experiencing a resurgence lately through Instagram Reels.
It’s often used in reels that depict everyday life with a partner, linking with the song’s theme.
If you’d like to save date memories—such as anniversaries—in a reel, be sure to check it out.