[2026] The latest Japanese pop songs that liven up parties and performances: surefire crowd favorites

I hope I can be your lover.Kaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru [I Hope I Can Be Your Lover] Music Video

A heart-wrenching love song that earnestly sings of the ache of unrequited love.

It’s a track by Kaneyori Masaru, a girls’ rock band based in Osaka, included on the mini-album “To Us Who Won’t Live Yesterday,” released in January 2025.

It was also chosen as the theme song for the film “Yoyogi Johnny’s Melancholy After School.” While carrying feelings for someone they like, the lyrics portray the anxiety of perhaps never becoming someone special, alongside the pure resolve to keep wishing anyway.

Emotion-rich vocals over a driving band sound convey a forward-looking strength that rises from within the frustration.

Specially, do it.＝LOVE

=LOVE (Equal Love) / 18th Single “Tokubechu, Shite” [MV full]

=LOVE, the idol group produced by Rino Sashihara, released their 18th single in February 2025.

One of the double A-side title tracks is a sweet love song that portrays intense feelings for a lover and a desire for a special kind of love.

The protagonist isn’t satisfied with clichéd expressions of affection, instead yearning for a one-of-a-kind love directed solely at them—an impression that really stands out.

The choreography even incorporates kiss gestures, making it a surefire way to fill any event with a festive atmosphere when performed.

Why not learn the cute dance and have fun dancing together?

Naughty SunORANGE RANGE

ORANGE RANGE – Naughty Sun (Reiwa ver. Music Video)

ORANGE RANGE is a five-member rock band that continues to be active out of Okinawa.

Their 17th single, used as the opening theme for the drama “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e ~Ikemen Paradise~,” was released in July 2007.

Its up-tempo sound, infused with a retro-pop vibe, pairs perfectly with the sexy lyrics to evoke a sense of summer freedom.

The call-and-response and choral work by the three MCs make it great for everyone to sing together at karaoke.

In May 2025, it surpassed 100 million total streams, marking the band’s first milestone of this kind.

It’s a catchy, high-energy tune that’s perfect for instantly boosting the mood at parties or events.

I can’t stop the queue!CUTIE STREET

[MV] CUTIE STREET "Can't Stop at the Queue!"

CUTIE STREET is an idol group that grabs viewers’ hearts in an instant.

Released in July 2025, this track is a high-energy pop tune that captures their full-throttle momentum as is.

Their unique performance—dancing Para Para with expressionless faces—debuted at their solo show in Osaka in March 2025 and created a major buzz.

The lyrics carry a message about staying positive and moving forward while looking only ahead, giving listeners a push from behind.

Since the choreography incorporates Para Para, if everyone learns it and dances together, it’s guaranteed to liven up any event!

GOD_iNumber_i

Number_i – GOD_i (Official Music Video)

This is a track released for streaming in January 2025 by Number_i, a group newly formed by three former members of King & Prince.

Produced by member Yuta Kishi, it was created around the theme of having the courage to take a step forward.

Its appeal lies in a sound that feels like a new frontier for the group, blending a wistful melody line with an addictive beat.

The song powerfully conveys self-affirmation and identity.

In April 2024, they also showed their international reach by performing at the American music festival Coachella.

Energetic yet tinged with a dreamlike atmosphere, this piece is perfect for those who want to perform a dance at an event.

Don some glamorous costumes and borrow moves from the music video’s choreography, and you’re sure to fill the venue with excitement.

Meet KiTEiLiFE!

[Self-Introduction Song] Come Meet Us, KiTE! / iLiFE! [Call Video]

This is a bright, up-tempo self-introduction song by iLiFE!—just what you’d expect from an idol group.

Included on their 2023 album “iLiFE Starter Pack,” it’s a standout track that reached No.

9 on Billboard JAPAN’s HOT Albums.

The lyrics weave in the names of all the members, and it features a call-and-response format where the audience chants their names.

Its structure makes it easy for people to naturally join in with claps and shouts, even without practice.

Perfect for anyone looking to hype up a crowd at an event, or organizers who want to get everyone involved at year-end or New Year parties.

The choreography is easy to learn, too, so everyone can join in while waving penlights and have a great time.

Try going kyururin (make a cute, twirly pose/gesture)kyururin tte shite mite

Try going kyururin—“Try doing kyururin”—the performers themselves tried dancing it

This track captivates with an addictive melody that sticks in your head from the very first listen.

Performed by the female idol group Kyururin tte Shitemite, it was included as the first track on their November 2023 EP, Dreamin’ Closet.

It features cute vocals, rapid-fire spoken lines, and an easy-to-remember chorus.

Designed with call-and-response in mind, it really shines live.

The group’s dance video on YouTube has drawn attention and helped the song gain popularity.

The catchy choreography is easy to imitate, making it perfect for skits and party performances.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to energize a venue with a high-spirited tune.