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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 (161–170)

By the side on a moonlit nightUru

[Official] Uru “By Your Side on a Moonlit Night” — Theme song for the film “The Guardian of the Camphor Tree”
By the side on a moonlit nightUru

Singer Uru, who continues to captivate listeners with her deep vocals and ethereal presence.

Her 17th single, “Katawara nite Tsukiyo,” released in January 2026, was written as the theme song for the film “Kusunoki no Bannin,” based on a novel by Keigo Higashino.

The lyrics and composition were handled by Iyori Shimizu of back number, and the blend of a melody that nestles into a quiet night with vocals that seep into the heart is striking.

This song, which scoops up feelings that can’t be put into words, feels perfect for nights spent alone or moments when you’re thinking of someone special.

MAGICAdo

A streaming-only single by Ado, used as the opening theme for the anime Cat’s Eye that began airing in October 2025.

The track is produced by popular Vocaloid producer Tsumiki.

Set to a dance beat where the retro vibe of the 1980s original intersects with a Reiwa-era sound, the lyrics portray the dual nature of a phantom thief.

It’s a pop tune with an addictive melody and club-like texture—fun to listen to and sure to hype up a karaoke session.

Trendy Songs (171–180)

Never Romanticnaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – Never Romantic [Official Music Video]
Never Romanticnaniwa danshi

A digital single by Naniwa Danshi released in December 2025.

It was written as the Miracle Theme Song for the film “Romantic Killer.” While the title carries the paradoxical meaning of “decidedly not romantic,” the track itself is a thoroughly romantic, irresistibly happy love song.

It captures the thrill of first falling in love and the unstoppable, spellbound impulse that follows, expressed through dazzling synths and a breezy dance beat.

It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser and a killer tune that’s guaranteed to light up karaoke.

LILMATICLIL LEAGUE

LIL LEAGUE ‘LILMATIC’ Music Video
LILMATICLIL LEAGUE

The bold sampling of Beethoven’s masterpiece Für Elise and the blend of a dreamlike track with modern hip-hop really sticks in your ears, doesn’t it? LIL LEAGUE’s “LILMATIC.” Produced under the direction of EXILE SHOKICHI, this work draws out new expressive power from the members and was released in advance in February 2026 as the lead track for their second album “NEOMATIC,” slated for release in March 2026.

The title bearing the group’s name conveys their strong will and determination to take the world by storm.

The music video—where weighty piano lines intersect with a gritty street vibe—is also a must-see.

It might be the perfect song to play when you need a push on your back or the courage to step up to the next stage.

Picaresque heroano

ano “Picaresque Hero” Music Video
Picaresque heroano

Singer-songwriter ano, who draws attention on variety shows with a unique personality and showcases multifaceted talents in band activities and acting, has released this digital single in January 2026.

The track was written as the opening theme for the anime TRIGUN STARGAZE, and it also made waves for being composed by DAIDAI of Paledusk.

Its lyrics portray a journey forward while bearing contradictions and impulses that aren’t just about justice—words that will likely resonate deeply with people whose emotions defy easy categorization.

Blending a propulsive, high-speed rock sound with ano’s distinctive vocals, it’s an energetic number that powerfully pushes listeners onward.

And I Love You So 2026 RemasteredAK-69

AK-69 – And I Love You So 2026 Remastered [Official Video]
And I Love You So 2026 RemasteredAK-69

AK-69, who will celebrate the 30th anniversary of his career in 2026, has reconstructed his past signature tracks with a modern sound.

This song is an advance release from that project and was originally included on his 2009 album “THE CARTEL FROM STREETS.” Its appeal lies in lyrics that express gratitude to a devoted partner in straightforward terms.

The melodic hook and spacious beat resonate pleasantly as well.

It’s a highly recommended track for moments when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special.

August, someone, moonlightYorushika

Yorushika – August, I, Moonlight (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
August, someone, moonlightYorushika

This track is marked by a driving, exhilarating guitar riff and Suis’s translucent vocals.

It’s included on Yorushika’s first full album, “だから僕は音楽を辞めた” (That’s Why I Gave Up on Music), released in April 2019, and it drew attention when its music video was released in December 2025.

The song is part of a narrative conceived as letters written by a young man who has decided to quit music to someone named “Elma,” vividly portraying emotions like self-loathing, impulsiveness, and escapism.

The image of the protagonist breaking away from a stifling everyday life and sprinting into the nighttime city hits hard alongside the powerful band sound.