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[April 2026] Trending songs: A roundup of the hottest, viral tracks right now

In Japan’s music scene—centered on J-pop—different songs and artists emerge each season.

The landscape changes rapidly, and it can be hard to keep up with what’s trending.

Still, there are times—like at karaoke or in conversation—when you might wish you knew the songs that are buzzing.

In this article, we introduce the latest popular Japanese tracks.

Alongside songs by leading artists driving the J-pop scene, we’ve also picked out theme songs from dramas and films, as well as tracks from buzzworthy newcomers.

Enjoy the current trends in music!

Trending Songs (111–120)

PuzzleIkuta Rira

Rira Ikuta “Puzzle” Official Music Video
PuzzleIkuta Rira

Released in January 2026, this work was written as the theme song for ABEMA’s romantic reality show series “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.” It marks the fourth time they’ve handled the series’ theme, making it a long-awaited number for fans of the show.

The lyrics, which liken the gradual shaping of budding feelings to fitting together puzzle pieces, deliver a warm flutter to listeners’ hearts.

Its light, pleasant pop sound gently embraces the brilliance and bittersweetness of youth.

It’s the perfect song for anyone sensing the stirrings of love or spending time thinking about someone special.

Trendy Songs (121–130)

BABYYOASOBI

It’s a bittersweet yet warm love song that depicts feelings of love growing deep inside the heart, unable to be put into words.

The delicately woven world of pure emotions and the struggle to confess them overlaps with Ikura’s clear, translucent vocals, resonating deeply within.

Created by YOASOBI, this piece was written specifically as the ending theme for the TV anime “For You in Full Bloom.” Based on the original novel “My Dear……,” it was produced and released to coincide with the broadcast of Episode 2 in January 2026.

It’s a song we especially want those experiencing the pain of unrequited love to hear.

Angel SeekAdo

[Ado] Angel Seek (Official Audio)
Angel SeekAdo

Singer Ado, who has delivered back-to-back, society-shaking hits and performs on a global scale.

Released in January 2026, this work was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Yandoku!”.

The lyrics, composition, and arrangement were handled by Vocaloid producer Nirukajitsu.

A straight-ahead rock sound, tricky lyrics, and Ado’s razor-sharp vocals fuse brilliantly.

A powerful message about upholding justice without bowing to headwinds comes through in both the music and the words.

It’s a track you’ll want to play at the decisive moment of a big challenge.

The world has ended.Yuuri

Singer-songwriter Yuuri continues to captivate countless listeners with his powerful vocals and relatable lyrics.

His single “The World Has Ended,” released digitally on January 14, 2026, has been drawing attention as it was written as the theme song for the drama “Reunion ~Silent Truth~.” Its message—depicting an unwavering conviction that you matter more than anything else, even at the very end of the world—overflows with a profound love that stirs the listener’s heart.

With a medium-tempo rock sound of grand scale and emotionally charged vocals that feel just right, it’s a track everyone who wants to protect someone dear should hear.

Baumkuchen EndrollAme Ryou

Baumkuchen End Roll / Amala feat. Hatsune Miku vs Kasane Teto vs Akita Neru (Baumkuchen End Credits / Amala ft. Miku vs Teto vs Neru)
Baumkuchen EndrollAme Ryou

Vocaloid producer Ura, who fuses alternative sounds with emotive melodies and even won the runner-up prize at the Magical Mirai 2025 song contest, released “Baumkuchen Endrolle” for streaming in December 2025—an electronic track featuring Hatsune Miku, Kasane Teto, and more.

Contrary to the sweet confection suggested by its title, the lyrics starkly depict a tangled love triangle and a raw hunger for validation, leaving a powerful impression.

The chorus quotes the melody from Beethoven’s Symphony No.

9, ringing out as if to sardonically celebrate the collapse of the relationship.

Despite its brief run time of just over two minutes, the song unfolds a densely packed narrative.

It’s a perfect listen when you’re facing complicated romantic entanglements—or when you deliberately want to sink into a bittersweet mood at night.

MonsterDa-iCE

Da-iCE /「Monster」Music Video
MonsterDa-iCE

A digital-only track by Da-iCE that fuses heavy dance music with vocals from all members.

Released on October 22, 2025, the song was written specifically as the opening theme for the TV anime Monster Strike: Deadverse Reloaded, based on the smartphone game.

Produced by Tōru Iwaoka and Hayate Wada, it delivers an aggressive sound that blends J-pop with elements of hip-hop and electro.

It’s a track that combines tension and groove, perfect for an anime opening.

A Crescendo of Falling in LoveHinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 “Falling in Love Crescendo” MUSIC VIDEO
A Crescendo of Falling in LoveHinatazaka46

It’s a high-energy track sung by the 5th generation members, included on the 16th single “Cliffhanger,” released in January 2026.

It portrays feelings for a childhood friend gradually shifting into love, with emotions swelling like the musical term in the title, “crescendo.” The contrast between the bright, bursting sound and the earnest longing of young love really hits home.

It’s a pop tune packed with the sparkle of youth.