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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!

Trendy Songs (141–150)

by all means; no matter what; at any costback number

back number is a three-piece band whose sound brings warmth to the winter chill.

Released digitally in December 2025, this track was written as the theme song for NHK’s “NHK Winter Sports.” It’s also set to be used in broadcasts of the 2026 Winter Olympics, making it a grand piece that adds color to the emotion of live sports coverage.

More than just a flashy cheer song, the lyrics depict lingering, unshakable feelings and inner conflict, stirring the hearts of listeners.

Its message affirms not only the results but also the journey and even the gritty emotions along the way, gently encouraging anyone who’s in the midst of a challenge.

It’s a powerful yet earnest mid-tempo number that rings out in the clear winter air.

HIROYUKIMasato Hayashi

Masato Hayashi – HIROYUKI [Official Music Video]
HIROYUKIMasato Hayashi

Masato Hayashi is a rapper from Hachioji, Tokyo, who previously performed under the name Pablo Blasta.

This work is a single released in January 2026, featuring lyrics by Masato Hayashi that blend his real-life experiences with humor over a beat composed by ineedmorebux.

You can feel a powerful sense of moving forward while confronting the past.

It’s perfect for those critical moments when you want a push on your back.

ENDROLLKawakami Yohei [Alexandros]×SennaRin

Yohei Kawakami [Alexandros] × SennaRin “ENDROLL” Music Video
ENDROLLKawakami Yohei [Alexandros]×SennaRin

ENDROLL is a collaboration between Yohei Kawakami, frontman of the rock band [Alexandros], and rising singer SennaRin, produced by Hiroyuki Sawano.

It was included on the CONCEPT EP LOSTandFOUND, released in February 2026, and was featured as an insert song in the film Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Witch of Circe.

The lyrics, which depict the signs of a story’s end and inner conflict, tightly grip the listener’s heart.

The overwhelming arrangement, where the two voices intersect over a grand soundscape, is also stunning.

Popular songs (151–160)

XTCNakajima Kento

Kento Nakajima “XTC” Music Video
XTCNakajima Kento

By boldly sampling Shonentai’s “Kamen Butokai,” the track became a major talking point on social media.

As Kento Nakajima continues to evolve as a solo artist, he released this work in January 2026 ahead of his second album “IDOL1ST,” slated for February 2026.

He was directly involved in writing and composing, depicting the light and shadow—and the inescapable fate—of being an idol through the keyword “mask.” The balance between the mysterious sound lurking beneath the glamour and his cool vocals is exquisite.

Savor the truth behind the dazzling stage at your leisure.

Gods’ Play feat. Naomi WatanabeNakajima Kento

Kento Nakajima “Gods’ Play feat. Naomi Watanabe” Music Video
Gods’ Play feat. Naomi WatanabeNakajima Kento

Kento Nakajima, who is also active as both an actor and TV personality, is showcasing his versatility.

Released early on February 12, 2026, this track is included on his second album, “IDOL1ST,” and drew attention for featuring the globally renowned entertainer Naomi Watanabe.

As friends of eight years, the two express grand themes—light and darkness, fate and love—under the concept of “a game of the gods.” The danceable beat that blends English and Japanese, paired with vocals that clash in a way that highlights their distinct personalities, is stunning—like a face-off between icons.

Its energetic sound is perfect for boosting your mood or confidence.

It’s a powerful pop tune that conveys a performer’s resolve.

Amazing!!!!!!SixTONES

SixTONES – Amazing!!!!!! [YouTube ver.]
Amazing!!!!!!SixTONES

A legendary live number that has been performed since their junior days in 2017 has finally been released as an official track.

The song is included on the first-run Limited Edition A of SixTONES’ first best-of album, “MILESixTONES -Best Tracks-.” Its raw power and unique sense of exhilaration are captivating.

The driving sound layers the voices of all six members, and just listening naturally gets your blood pumping.

The lyrics, which cast themselves as “raw gems,” shout about the brilliance of this very moment and the potential that lies ahead.

Experience the group’s origins for yourself.

LinariaChroNoiR

ChroNoiR is a duo belonging to the VTuber group NIJISANJI, enjoying immense popularity through their game streams and as musical artists.

This work is a medium-tempo ballad themed around an “unrequited love,” intentionally sung from a woman’s perspective by the male duo.

Inspired by the language of flowers, its lyrics trace feelings that don’t reach the other person and emotions that sway back and forth—sure to make anyone who knows the pain of a one-sided love feel a tightening in their chest.

Kanae and Kuzuha’s delicate harmonies make this a track that perfectly matches the winter scenery.