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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- New-era masterpieces meet culture! Reiwa-era tracks that went viral on TikTok
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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 (41–50)
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!
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.
EdisonSuiyōbi no Campanella
Another song that drew attention for being performed on THE FIRST TAKE is Edison.
The one singing it is Wednesday Campanella, with Uta as the newly appointed vocalist—still fresh in our memories.
The melody has a hip-hop vibe, and the lyrics are crafted to rhyme with the title, Edison.
Repeated phrases appear throughout, so it’s guaranteed to stick in your head.
The instrumental break has an electro music feel as well, which is part of its charm.
It’s a unique musical style unlike anything else, so I hope you’ll give it a listen first.
flameLiSA
LiSA, who is hugely popular among both adults and children, won the Japan Record Award for her song Homura.
It was written as the theme song for the film Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train.
Its achievement as a million seller and being performed two years in a row on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen are also memorable.
The lyrics, depicting the struggle to move forward after losing a loved one, resonated with many people and likely contributed to its massive success.
By the way, she also performed this song on THE FIRST TAKE, and that performance is a must-see as well.
Sorry for Being Cute feat. Chuutan (CV: Saori Hayami)HONEY WORKS
HoneyWorks’ “Kawaikute Gomen feat.
Chu-tan (CV: Saori Hayami)” gained popularity primarily on TikTok.
Its catchy and cute lyrics captivated many listeners.
In particular, the “I tried dancing” series took the No.
1 spot on the TikTok Weekly Top 20 for three consecutive weeks.
Saori Hayami’s gentle voice adds depth to the track, and the lyrics convey the charm of a devoted woman.
HoneyWorks’ music is appealing for its accessibility, so if you haven’t experienced it yet, be sure to check out their other songs on music streaming services.
This adorable tune is sure to put a smile on your face for the day.
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.
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.