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[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!

[2026] The latest J‑Pop that livens up parties and performances: Surefire hits (111–120)

Love so sweetarashi

ARASHI – Love so sweet [Official Music Video]
Love so sweetarashi

Arashi’s “Love so sweet” was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama Boys Over Flowers 2 and became one of Arashi’s signature songs.

It’s also very popular at weddings and is a staple as background music for entrances, exits, and video messages during receptions.

It’s extremely popular for performances as well, making it perfect for male guests to do Arashi impersonations or perform the song.

One lovearashi

This is a popular song by Arashi, a national idol group, chosen as the theme song for Hana Yori Dango F (Final).

It was released in 2008 as their 22nd single.

The lyrics convey a straightforward message of love to someone special.

It’s perfect for a wedding reception performance.

It’s also great for karaoke, and you can sing and dance to it just like Arashi.

Wedding SongSaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Wedding Song [Music Video Short ver.]
Wedding SongSaitō Kazuyoshi

There aren’t actually that many male-oriented solo-acoustic songs that are perfect for performing as a wedding reception act, so it can be hard to decide what to do.

If you’re looking for a song like that, I recommend Kazuyoshi Saito’s “Wedding Song.” The song itself is cool, and since it’s by Kazuyoshi Saito, it’s perfect for a solo acoustic performance—so definitely give it a try and practice it.

Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu

ATARASHII GAKKO! – Otona Blue (Official Music Video)
Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu

This song by Atarashii Gakko! blends a nostalgic 70s-style melody with a fresh rhythmic feel, creating a work that appeals to a wide range of ages.

It portrays the gap between a mature outward appearance and youthful inner self, expressing a desire to connect with people not just through looks but heart to heart.

Released as a digital-only single in May 2020, it won the Grand Prize at the TikTok First-Half Trend Awards 2023.

In 2023, they performed at the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen as the opening act, among other achievements that influenced many people.

It’s perfect for wedding and party performances, easy to learn for karaoke and dance, and captivates audiences with its catchy charm.

Baby youyuka

Yuka “Baby you” Music Video
Baby youyuka

Yuuka, a singer-songwriter who is especially popular among Gen Z, has been attracting a lot of attention.

Her major-label debut single, “Baby you,” is a happy love song set to a lively shuffle beat.

It’s gaining traction with overseas artists and influencers, and plays on TikTok posts and Spotify are soaring.

Its catchy sound and simple melody are unforgettable after just one listen.

It’s the perfect number to sing as a performance at a female friend’s wedding.

Matsuken Samba IIMatsudaira Ken

[Official] Ken Matsudaira “Matsuken Samba II” MV
Matsuken Samba IIMatsudaira Ken

When it comes to dance songs that get everyone hyped across generations, Matsuken Samba II is the go-to.

Sung by Ken Matsudaira, it’s been featured in various commercials and even made a comeback at the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2021 for the first time in 17 years.

At weddings, guests span a wide range of ages, so it can be hard to decide on the right entertainment.

With Matsuken Samba II, everyone knows it, it’s flashy and glamorous—what more could you ask for? If someone performs as Ken Matsudaira, the older guests might be especially delighted!

EdisonSuiyōbi no Campanella

A captivating track featuring unique electronic sounds and a vibrant, energetic rhythm.

The lyrics, which sing of a passion for invention, leave a strong impression and spark listeners’ creativity.

Released in February 2022, it became a massive hit, especially on TikTok.

By December of the same year, total streams surpassed 2.7 billion, and it also won the TikTok Buzzword Awards 2022 in the Music category.

As the second single under Wednesday Campanella’s new lineup, it drew significant attention and reached No.

13 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

Guaranteed to get the crowd going at karaoke or parties, this song is also perfect for wedding after-parties and school events!