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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- Great for singing along or just listening! An energizing Reiwa-era feel-good song bursting with power.
- Songs that hype you up just by listening—recommended tracks from timeless classics to the latest releases
- Wedding song recommendations! Love songs born in the Reiwa era
[Masterpieces of the Reiwa Era] Hit Songs That Define the Times (21–30)
Spot the differenceSuda Masaki
Masaki Suda is highly acclaimed not only as an actor but also as a singer.
All of his songs are excellent, and you can’t help but feel that each one could be considered his signature track.
Among his many songs, “Machigai Sagashi” is especially moving.
Many people may have a strong impression of it because it was the theme song for the drama “Perfect World,” starring Tori Matsuzaka.
The track was produced by Kenshi Yonezu.
It’s a song that resonates with anyone, regardless of gender or age.
MagicMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s “Magic” drew attention after being selected for a Coca-Cola campaign.
The track is filled with Motoki Omori’s clear, airy vocals and a melancholic mood that evokes the end of a season.
At the same time, its energetic sound inspires a sense of new hope and invigorates the listener.
Currently a hot topic on social media, this song is one I highly recommend even to those who haven’t yet explored Mrs.
GREEN APPLE.
“Magic” captivates its listeners and, like a spell, swells their sense of anticipation.
[Masterpieces of the Reiwa Era] Hit Songs That Define the Times (31–40)
Biri MillionYuuri
Yuri, who has produced many emotional ballads, has scored a massive hit with “Billimillion,” drawing attention for two main reasons.
First is the thought-provoking lyrics about life, which sing of the preciousness of life and the beauty of living.
Second is the music video created in collaboration with the flipbook manga artist Tekken, whose animation makes the song’s story even more memorable.
Also, its slow tempo might be another reason it’s easy to sing at karaoke, which could have contributed to its success.
Mela!Ryokushokushakai
Since its release in 2020, “Mela!” has been beloved as a staple cheer song.
It’s a track by the rock band Ryokuoushoku Shakai, and it was recently chosen as a set piece for a dance project as well.
In this song, beyond traditional band instrumentation, they add synthesizers and sample handclaps to create a lively sound.
The lyrics are positive, encouraging people who are doing their best, so combined with the sound, it’s sure to get you hyped.
KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi
Released in 2022, “KICK BACK” topped numerous music charts.
Kenshi Yonezu wrote this song specifically as the opening theme for the anime Chainsaw Man.
Its dry sound and dark atmosphere match the anime perfectly.
Also, Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu actually took part in the arrangement, and his appearance at Yonezu’s concert to perform together became a hot topic as well.
It’s a song that never stops making waves, so if you haven’t heard it yet, check it out now!
I’m a messMY FIRST STORY
The song “I’m a mess,” marked by its heavy guitar riffs and dynamic rhythm section, carries an energy that powerfully resonates with listeners.
The chorus, which unfolds dramatically, evokes the freshness and poignancy of youth and captures the hearts of many.
The intricacy of the guitar sound is also appealing as a technical challenge for instrumentalists.
The nuanced, expressive vocals deepen the song’s world with emotional richness.
There’s a reason it has continued to be loved by countless fans since its release.
The grand emotional portrayal presented by MY FIRST STORY makes this track truly emblematic of its era.
Horse and deerYonezu Kenshi
Singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, who continues to reinvent the music scene, released “Uma to Shika,” a song that took society by storm in 2019.
Deeply resonating with the drama No Side Game, the track powerfully evokes the image of people who keep facing forward even after setbacks.
As the song progresses, its development shakes the listener’s emotions and leaves a lasting impression.
Drawing you into a dramatic world, it captivates countless fans together with its iconic visuals.
It’s an enduring masterpiece imbued with a powerful message for everyone striving right now.