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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 (171–180)

When our eyes metFRUITS ZIPPER

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER “When Our Eyes Met”
When our eyes metFRUITS ZIPPER

A song created as part of a collaboration with the eyewear brand Zoff, vividly depicting the moment when new dreams are born as the view before you changes.

It was released for streaming in January 2026, and the main visual—featuring members wearing glasses chosen to match each of their personalities—drew significant attention.

The lyrics and composition were handled by Sho Yamamoto, known for works such as “Watashi no Ichiban Kawaii Tokoro,” resulting in a warm pop song that embraces the subtle changes of everyday life.

ray Ultra Princess Kaguya! Versionkaguya (cv. Natsuyoshi Yuuko), tsukimi yachiyo (cv. Hayami Saori)

[Official MV] ray Super Princess Kaguya! Version / Kaguya (cv: Yuko Natsuyoshi), Tsukimi Yachiyo (cv: Saori Hayami) from #SuperPrincessKaguya!
ray Ultra Princess Kaguya! Versionkaguya (cv. Natsuyoshi Yuuko), tsukimi yachiyo (cv. Hayami Saori)

This work, performed by the songstresses appearing in the Netflix original animated film “Ultra Princess Kaguya!”, was released for streaming on January 22, 2026, and was selected as the film’s ending theme.

The original song is by BUMP OF CHICKEN, with arrangement by TAKU INOUE.

The contrast between the driving, fast-paced beat and the vocals—radiant with clarity yet underpinned by resolute strength—never fails to set the heart ablaze, no matter how many times you listen.

It’s an emotional number that lends you strength when you’re ready to take a new step forward.

dead endHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Dead End [Official Video]
dead endHoshino Gen

Released in November 2025 as the theme song for the film “Hiraba no Tsuki,” this track marks a true new frontier for Gen Hoshino, expressed with nothing but piano and voice.

In step with the mature love story starring Masato Sakai and Haruka Igawa, it portrays the raw emotion of continuing to carry feelings for someone you can’t forget, even when life has come to a dead end.

It embraces past choices and awkward kindness without polishing them into a neat tale—an approach that is the essence of adult romance.

It’s also striking that, following the album “Gen” and his pursuit of more personal expression, Hoshino sings here as a first-person narrator emerging from the film’s story world.

The minimal sound highlights the weight of the words and the lingering resonance of the piano.

It’s a song that will resonate deeply with anyone who, while facing loss and regret, still tries to look ahead.

DEAD CENTER feat. LiSAREOL

Reol – ‘DEAD CENTER feat. LiSA’ Music Video
DEAD CENTER feat. LiSAREOL

This track, included on Reol’s album “Bijigaku” released in January 2026, became a hot topic as a collaboration featuring LiSA, a singer renowned for numerous anime themes and beloved both in Japan and abroad.

True to its title, which means “right down the middle” in English slang, its powerful message—like two paths merging head-on—teaches the importance of believing in yourself and forging ahead.

With cutting-edge beats and the two vocalists’ voices colliding vividly, it’s an uplifting tune perfect for those decisive, make-or-break moments.

I Want You BackBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / I Want You Back -Music Video-
I Want You BackBE:FIRST

Released in October 2025, this ambitious work reconstructs Motown classics in a style that’s uniquely their own.

Created using a distinctive approach of re-sampling live band sounds, it seamlessly fuses the grooves of soul and funk with a modern hip-hop sensibility.

While honoring the original songs, the arrangements highlight each member’s individuality—and they’re seriously cool.

Experience how it bridges music’s past and present!

Popular songs (181–190)

Casket GirlFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Casket Girl [Official video]
Casket GirlFuji Kaze

Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, who is making waves worldwide.

The opening track of his third album, Prema, released in September 2025, this song became a major talking point when its music video dropped in December.

It likens the things that confine us and our attachments to a “coffin,” portraying the resolve to break free.

Its sound, wrapped in an ’80s vibe, creates a comfortably groovy feel.

When you want to shatter a sense of stagnation and take a new step forward, surrender yourself to this track.

Song of dawnjo0ji

jo0ji “Song of Dawn” Official Music Video | TV Anime Jujutsu Kaisen “Culling Game Part 1” Ending Theme
Song of dawnjo0ji

This work, written as the ending theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen: Culling Game Part 1 and set for release in January 2026, was produced with Ayatake Ezaki of WONK handling the arrangement.

Its richly layered sound delicately captures the shift in atmosphere from the depths of night into morning.

The lyrics, which accompany protagonist Yuji Itadori’s inner struggles and wish for light to pierce even the darkest night, are sure to resonate warmly with many who face difficulties.

Why not take a quiet night to listen closely on your own?