[2026] The latest Japanese pop songs that liven up parties and performances: surefire crowd favorites
Being asked to put on a performance at a wedding reception or after-party—one of life’s biggest events—comes with a lot of responsibility.
Playing it safe might mean singing a song or doing a dance, but if you’re wondering which songs will really get the crowd going, we’ve got you covered with recommended Japanese tracks, from the latest hits to timeless classics.
From massive hits with fun choreography everyone can dance to, to tender, moving numbers dedicated to the bride and groom, you’re sure to find a song that fits your purpose.
We’re also featuring many songs that work great for other events like year-end and New Year’s parties, so take this opportunity to check them out!
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[2026] The latest Japanese songs that hype up performances and acts. Surefire crowd-pleasers (61–70)
366 daysHY
It’s a mellow song that really resonates with everyone’s hearts.
Please sing it as entertainment at a wedding, not at a drinking party.
Haha.
HY’s songs have wonderful lyrics, and among them, this one is about single-minded love, so I think it’s perfect for a wedding.
celeryYamazaki Masayoshi
At wedding receptions, songs about married life are really popular.
One such favorite is Masayoshi Yamazaki’s “Celery.” The song focuses on themes like misunderstandings and differences in values—things that inevitably happen in married life.
While it’s a wedding song, it has a solid, cool melody, making it perfect for a male solo performance with guitar.
NIGHT DANCERimase
A track that shines with an urban sensibility, featuring an ear-catching melody and dazzling arrangement.
The chorus’s airy vocals are memorable, and the rhythm makes you want to move.
Digitally released in August 2022, it sparked huge buzz on social media, surpassing 170 million total views on TikTok.
The music video has also topped 100 million views, with a special version available as well.
It’s gaining attention as a song suitable for various occasions such as wedding performances, after-parties, and year-end gatherings.
As one of imase’s signature works, it’s supported by a wide range of generations and is recommended for those who want to create an unforgettable moment.
Before anything else, from atop the roadIsseifubi Sepia
From Issen Fubi Sepia—the group that once included actors who later became stars, such as Toshiro Yanagiba and Sho Aikawa—comes the famous song “Zenryaku, Michi no Ue yori.” Its brisk rhythm is matched by a rugged dance and a masculine vocal—so much so that it feels like ‘otoko’ written with the tougher character ‘漢.’ How about gathering the guys and performing it as a fun entertainment piece?
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
A timeless classic that’s been used at wedding receptions for many years.
One of singer-songwriter Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature songs, released in 1980.
Its lyrics celebrating a new chapter in life, along with his powerful vocals, have deeply moved many listeners.
If you perform it as entertainment, we recommend a solo style with an acoustic guitar.
Sing it with heart and with a bold, masculine presence.
One Night CarnivalKishidan
It’s a classic song that’s perfect for mixed-gender gatherings.
The spoken lines are funny no matter who says them—whether it’s an energetic guy or a quieter girl—so it’s sure to liven up the room.
The dance is something everyone can do together, so it’s a great choice for the first song!
OtonokeCreepy Nuts
The song produced as the opening theme for the TV anime “Dandadan” was released by Creepy Nuts in October 2024.
It’s a track with a mysterious vibe that perfectly matches an anime themed around the occult and the supernatural.
The lyrics, which depict music clinging to people like a haunting phenomenon that takes root in the heart, resonate deeply with listeners.
Built on a Jersey club beat, it’s an unforgettable, high-energy tune that fuses DJ Matsunaga’s delicate production with R-Shitei’s powerful rap.
It’s the perfect song for moments when everyone wants to get hyped, like wedding party performances or year-end gatherings!