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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- 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 (31–40)
monsterYOASOBI
YOASOBI’s single “Kaibutsu” was released on January 6, 2021, delivering a powerful emotional impact.
Its dark electronic sound, which further engraves the tense world of the anime BEASTARS, drew rapt attention from listeners.
Selected as No.
5 on TIME magazine’s “Top 10 Songs of 2021,” the song—along with its music video—has continued to captivate fans with its immersive atmosphere.
The soaring momentum into the chorus helped drive its popularity, reaching 100 million streams by April 2021, making it a true anthem that symbolizes the Reiwa 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.
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!
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.
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.
Masterpieces of the Reiwa Era: Hit Songs That Define the Times (41–50)
New Era (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)Ado
“New Genesis,” which was selected as the theme song for the film ONE PIECE FILM RED, was released in 2022 by the powerhouse vocalist Ado, with music producer Yasutaka Nakata handling both lyrics and composition.
Its rich, heavy beat is complemented by vibrant synth tones.
Pay attention to her powerful delivery of lyrics filled with determination for the future.
Her expansive, soaring voice conjures an image of a world spreading endlessly.
It’s an energetic track that hints at the dawn of new days.
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.