Masterpieces of the Reiwa Era: Hit Songs That Define the Times
As the era shifted from Heisei to Reiwa, the way we listen to music has changed dramatically.
People buy CDs less often now, and more of us listen to music through subscription services.
It’s also no longer unusual to see up-and-coming young artists emerging, active mainly on social media and video platforms.
Amid these changes, many popular songs have been born in the Reiwa era and are loved by countless people every day.
In this article, we’ll showcase, all at once, the hit songs that took the era by storm from Reiwa Year One onward, including the latest smash hits!
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Masterpieces of the Reiwa Era: Hit Songs That Define the Times (91–100)
Tokyo Shandy Rendezvous feat. KAF, TsumikiMAISONdes
This song was selected as the ending theme for the wildly popular Showa-era anime Urusei Yatsura, revived in the Reiwa era.
The vocalist is Kafu, a virtual singer brought together by the music project MAISONdes, which continuously releases songs under the concept of “songs by the residents of rooms in a certain six-tatami-mat apartment.” The lyrics and composition are by Tsumiki, a Vocaloid producer and singer-songwriter.
The vocals—both cute and alluring—and the lyrics filled with distinctive turns of phrase mesh perfectly with the mischievous charm of the anime’s heroine, Lum.
It’s a track you won’t be able to forget after just one listen.
You As You Are (Prod. @thekontrabandz)Centipede & Rhyme Man
Mukade & Inman is a hip-hop duo formed by next-generation artists.
They’ve gained support for their style that portrays love and life in a real, down-to-earth way.
Their heartbreak song “Kimi no Mama (Prod.
@thekontrabandz)” depicts a couple’s changing relationship and the desire to stay the same.
With the two trading verses and their uniquely rhythmic flows, it’s a highly engaging piece.
forget-me-notAwesome City Club
This is a song by the rock band Awesome City Club that drew attention as an inspiration song for the film “We Made a Beautiful Bouquet.” Awesome City Club made their major-label debut in 2015, and the band scored big hits with tracks like “Outsider,” which incorporated dance-pop elements.
Released in the Reiwa era, this song has a different vibe from “Outsider,” standing out as a rock ballad with exquisite harmonies from the male–female twin vocals.
I’m excited to see what kind of music they’ll release next.
To tell you the truth,yangusukinii
“Hontou wa ne,” released by Young Skinny, a group shaping the Reiwa-era music scene, is a song that deftly captures a woman’s inner voice.
Its dramatic composition fused with heartfelt lyrics stirs our emotions.
It became an explosive hit, surpassing 100 million streams shortly after release and taking the top spot on 2023’s Heatseekers Songs.
Their expansive expressive range and sound that taps into the spirit of the times bring a fresh resonance to listeners.
The music video, which adds even greater depth when you watch it, is also a must-see.
You can’t take your eyes off them as they continue to define a new form of music.
Sukitchu no! (feat. Kapi)HONEY WORKS
HoneyWorks is a creator unit gaining attention for their internet-centered activities on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Their 2023 release “Sukicchuu no!” is a song that depicts a girl’s straightforward feelings of love.
Saori Hayami, who sang the viral SNS hit “Kawaikute Gomen,” serves as the vocalist, and as part of a collaboration project, Kapi’s vocals are also featured.
Set to a rhythmic band performance, it’s a love song that strings together words of affection for one’s idol or favorite person.
force majeureVaundy
In 2019, Vaundy posted the music video for his first original song on YouTube, and in November of the same year he released Tokyo Flash, which would later become one of his signature tracks.
His stylish and analytically crafted songs quickly captured the ears of listeners across Japan and propelled him to stardom.
Among his works, Fukakouryoku, released in 2020, was also featured in a Spotify commercial, so many people have likely heard it.
This sophisticated sound that absorbs elements from all kinds of genres can be considered one of the defining characteristics of hit songs in the Reiwa era.
MainstreamBE:FIRST
Breaking out from the boy group discovery audition “THE FIRST,” BE:FIRST has become an icon of a new era.
Since its release on September 13, 2023, their song “Mainstream” has continued to top numerous charts, including Oricon.
Blending lyrics laden with a powerful message and a street-infused beat, the track stands as a universally recognized symbol of the times.
Their richly expressive performance—including the visuals—moves the heart.
With vivid tones and rhythms that captivate every listener, it is truly a masterpiece that colors the Reiwa era.
Bye-Good-ByeBE:FIRST
BE:FIRST is a boy group formed through an audition project planned by SKY-HI.
Their first single, which offered a glimpse of their pre-debut, is “Bye-Good-Bye.” Their unique musical style generated buzz and became a major hit, and the song was further honored with the Excellence Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards.
Although the theme is parting, its pop and optimistic message is likely a key reason for its broad support.
On top of that, it’s a track with compelling choreography, so be sure to watch the music video as well.
First-Love (Ubu Love)naniwa danshi
Naniwa Danshi captivate fans with their sweet looks and dazzling performances.
Their debut single, released in 2021, is “Ubu LOVE” (Shoshin LOVE).
Alongside a bright, poppy melody, their cool vocals ring out.
The sweet words that hint at the beginning of love are sure to make your heart flutter.
Be sure to listen while paying attention to the choreography that unfolds over a lively dance beat.
It’s an idol song packed with their charm and a princely aura.
morning starLiSA
This song is characterized by its powerful vocals and grand, sweeping sound.
The lyrics, symbolizing a light of hope, express the protagonist’s resolve to face a harsh fate.
Like stars before dawn, its striking blend of strength and gentleness shines through the darkness.
Released in November 2021, it drew attention as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Mugen Train Arc.
It received high acclaim, including the Excellent Work Award at the 63rd Japan Record Awards.
LiSA’s soulful vocals inspire the courage to confront adversity.
It’s recommended for moments when you want to keep moving forward or when you’re thinking of someone dear.
In conclusion
We’ve showcased plenty of hit songs from the Reiwa era. So many masterpieces have already emerged that are sure to be sung for generations to come, right? Of course, more and more wonderful songs will keep coming out and be loved by many listeners. I’m really excited about the music of the new era that’s yet to arrive!