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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!

Popular songs (181–190)

Only bots / Nothing but botsfantomu shiitaa

Phantom Theta 'All Just Bots' (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)
Only bots / Nothing but botsfantomu shiitaa

The eighth digital single, released in November 2025, is a Showa disco-style dance tune from Phantom Theta, a retro-horror-themed idol group produced by Ado.

It portrays the anxiety of falling in love with an ideal partner while not knowing whether they’re genuine or a fake, alongside a heartfelt yearning to be loved by someone anyway.

Set to a retro-pop sound, the song expresses the protagonist’s struggle to seek pure love in a world full of knockoffs.

Written and composed by Sasaki Kissa, it captures a world where cuteness and horror coexist, showcasing Phantom Theta’s multifaceted appeal in its most catchy form.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to when you’re struggling with online communication or craving a genuine connection.

Intro “Soul Quake”watson

Watson – Intro “Soul Quake” (Official Video)
Intro “Soul Quake”watson

Check out the anthem from rapper Watson, who rose up from Komatsushima City in Tokushima Prefecture! “Intro ‘Soul Quake’” is a track whose music video dropped in January 2026.

It’s positioned as a crucial prologue leading up to his Nippon Budokan concert in March 2026.

Heavy beats intertwine with soul-shaking lyrics, signaling the dawn of an epic story about to unfold.

Let’s share the rising heartbeat as he heads toward the big stage!

SophieAve Mujica

Ave Mujica – Sophie (Official Music Video)
SophieAve Mujica

This song is included on five-piece band Ave Mujica’s third single, “’S/’ The Way / Sophie.” Released in December 2025, the work is notable for lyrics interweaving symbolic motifs such as the movement of celestial bodies and fate.

Its repeated phrases resound like a ritual chant, drawing listeners into a unique state of rapture.

A must-listen for those seeking music with a strong sense of storytelling.

Qiu & Kagepiinata

Peanut - Q&A (Q&A) Kasane Teto
Qiu & Kagepiinata

A track by Vocaloid producer Pīnata that portrays the loneliness and inner conflicts faced by today’s youth, using abstract motifs like mathematical symbols and logic.

The intertwining of Kasane Teto’s high-tone vocals with tightly punched kick and snare, plus a distorted synth bass, creates a soundscape where euphoria and collapse coexist.

The lyrics sharply capture dependence on one’s idol, the frenzy on social media, and the emptiness that lingers after the hype cools—resulting in a piece that pierces the listener’s heart.

It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone feeling a lingering haze in their everyday life.

The Story of Usmilet

milet 'The Story of Us' MUSIC VIDEO (TV anime 'Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End' Season 2 Ending Theme)
The Story of Usmilet

Written specifically as the ending theme for the second season of the TV anime “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End,” this song is a moving number that resonates with the series’ grand world-building.

Arranged by Evan Call, who also handles the score, its cinematic blend of piano and strings highlights milet’s warm, embracing vocals.

The lyrics, themed around a long journey and memories, evoke a quiet sense of hope.

It’s recommended not only for fans of the anime but also for anyone looking to spend a calm, unhurried moment.

tremoloYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Tremolo [Audio]
tremoloYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who has produced numerous hits and also shows remarkable talent as an illustrator and filmmaker.

This track, included on the album “Dear Jubilee -RADWIMPS TRIBUTE-” set for release in November 2025, is a cover that reconstructs a beloved RADWIMPS classic he deeply admires.

The band sound, with its pleasantly resonant guitar tones, and his vocals that tenderly scoop up shifting emotions bring the original song’s poignancy into even sharper relief.

Released amid a streak of major tie-ins with anime and films, this reverent tribute radiates a charm that makes you want to listen alone on a quiet night.

It’s an emotional piece that fans of both artists will find irresistible.

I’m Choco♡chou tokimeki sendenbu

A poppy track packed with Valentine sweetness and irresistible cuteness.

Its unique charm lies in the perspective of becoming chocolate yourself and delivering your feelings straight to the one you love.

It’s full of playful wordplay that makes your heart skip just by listening.

Created by the idol unit Cho Tokimeki Sendenbu, who operate under the slogan “Locked on to your heart!”, the song was released digitally in January 2026.

It’s also been chosen as the image song for #KoisuruSweets-bu, a tie-in with the sister program of “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.” The track is slated for inclusion on the album Tokimeki Egao.

With catchy sounds crafted by Hirose Hirose, it’s perfect for boosting those lovey-dovey feelings.

If you’re thinking of confessing to someone you like, be sure to check it out.