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 (41–50)
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.
Make you happyNiziU
“Make you happy” is the pre-debut digital EP by NiziU, a group formed through a Japan–Korea joint global audition project.
Released worldwide in 2020, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon singles chart and ranked high across various charts including streaming and downloads.
Its distinctive melody lines and backing track sounds aren’t often heard in the Japanese music scene, which makes it especially appealing.
The choreography showcased by the members in the music video is also famous, so be sure to check it out!
mixed nutsOfisharu Higedan Dism
The song that topped the charts on numerous music streaming services is Official HIGE DANDism’s “Mixed Nuts.” It was written specifically for the anime SPY×FAMILY.
Its lyrics, which match the show’s world, and the fast-paced melody befitting a shonen anime opening have captured many hearts.
While the lyrics align with the anime’s setting, they’re crafted so that even those who haven’t seen the series can relate.
You can also enjoy listening to the track first and then check out the anime if it piques your interest.
Racing into the NightYOASOBI
The unit that turns novels into music, YOASOBI, rose to fame with “Yoru ni Kakeru,” released in December 2019.
It was YOASOBI’s first digital-only single and dominated various charts in 2020, becoming such a massive hit that it felt like everyone had heard it.
The track’s distinctive sound—starting with the release-cut piano—was also groundbreaking.
The animated music video drew attention as well, and the YouTube upload has been viewed over 250 million times.
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.
Summertime CinderellaRyokushokushakai
“Summertime Cinderella” is Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s seventh single and was selected as the theme song for the TV drama “Midsummer Cinderella.” Its sweet yet energetic arrangement—combining poignant piano and strings with a sense of speed—colors the scorching season.
The high-register vocals sketch a summer love story that makes your heart dance after just one listen.
It’s a track that can be said to establish the status of a hit song symbolizing a new era.
Its flowing melody and refreshingly cool lyrics are sure to exhilarate music lovers.
Without a doubt, it’s one of the masterpieces that will leave its mark on the Reiwa era.
A Naked Heartaimyon
In 2020, Aimyon released “Naked Heart,” her first ballad as a single.
It was selected as the theme song for the TBS drama ‘My Housekeeper Nagisa-san’ and reached No.
4 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
Its somewhat nostalgic sound is soothing, and the lyrics, which earnestly sing of the seriousness of falling in love, really resonate.
The music video, which features Aimyon standing in a bathroom, won Best Video of the Year – Japan (Female) at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan 2020.
Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet
Kizuna no Kiseki, the opening theme of the TV anime Demon Slayer: Swordsmith Village Arc, is a standout number born from the collaboration between MAN WITH A MISSION and milet.
Beginning with an intro that incorporates traditional Japanese elements and unfolding into a powerful rock sound, its arrangement stirs the listener’s heart.
The lyrics, perfectly matched to the story, reinforce the importance of bonds and carry a powerful message that offers courage with every listen.
This compelling piece continues to captivate a wide range of music fans.
I love youback number
Back Number’s “I Love You,” the theme song for the TV drama series Asadora “Soar High!,” moved the hearts of many.
This song, which portrays a delicate first love, captivates with its simple structure and poetic lyrics.
Plus, its relaxed tempo and lower key make it great for karaoke.
The gentle melody and lyrics that slip easily into the heart offer warmth to listeners.
Tenderly wrapping feelings of love, “I Love You” can be seen as a defining song of the Reiwa era music scene.
JUST DANCE!Travis Japan
Travis Japan made their global debut on October 28, 2022, marking a striking start.
Their debut single “JUST DANCE!” achieved an impressive feat by reaching No.
5 on the Billboard Global 200 chart, earning high international acclaim.
They deliver rich performances and choral work that showcase the appeal of dance, offering an exhilarating experience.
There’s no doubt this song is loved by many as a hit representing the Reiwa era.
It’s a new-generation dance tune that gets everyone hyped at karaoke.