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Lovely karaoke song

A roundup of upbeat Japanese songs that get you moving

There are times when you want to get pumped up with music—like during a drive, when you want to hype up a karaoke session, or right before studying! In this article, we’ll introduce songs that are perfect for getting you in a lively, upbeat mood.

When you hear “songs that get you hyped,” what kind of tracks come to mind? Many people might think of uptempo songs, but even if the tempo isn’t that fast, there are tracks with a comfortable beat that still get you moving! We’ve picked out a variety of groove-worthy songs in this article, so find your favorite track and have fun!

Upbeat J‑Pop tracks: a roundup of songs you can groove to (71–80)

Water Lily SongShonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “Suirenka” MUSIC VIDEO
Water Lily SongShonan no Kaze

This has got to be the most summer-like, hype track in Japan! It’s a song you just have to include in an article like this—at festivals, everyone spins their towels and gets totally pumped.

With a light, comfortable reggae rhythm, clean sing-along parts true to the band, and raspy call-and-response shouts flying around, it’s a killer tune.

It was released in 2007, but it’s still super popular at karaoke.

It’s perfect when you want to sing something that gets the crowd going, or when you just want to boost your mood with a catchy, energetic track!

Girl Like MeCream

CREAM – Girl Like Me (Music Video)
Girl Like MeCream

CREAM is a music duo consisting of StaxxT and Minami.

“Girl Like Me” is a track from their 2017 album BLACK.

Told from both male and female perspectives, it portrays the fluttering excitement of two people on the verge of starting a relationship.

Their flow over a soft, chill beat conveys the pounding of their hearts.

It’s a romantic love song that depicts the two gradually growing closer.

Why not give it a listen for your next nighttime date or outing?

Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet

MAN WITH A MISSION × milet “Kizuna no Kiseki” Music Video
Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet

MAN WITH A MISSION, who are highly acclaimed both in Japan and abroad, and milet, whose singing at the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics drew major attention.

Their song “Kizuna no Kiseki,” written as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc, became a hot topic as a track that packs in the appeal of both artists.

From a Japanese-inspired opening, the arrangement builds into a heavy rock sound that’s sure to get your energy up just by listening.

With a catchy, fast-paced chorus that heightens anticipation for the anime, it’s a collaboration by powerhouse artists.

from hereSixTONES

SixTONES – From Here [YouTube ver.]
from hereSixTONES

SixTONES showcases a hard-hitting rap in “Kokkara.” It’s the theme song for the drama “However, There Is Passion.” The lyrics embrace the inferiority complexes and flaws of those chasing their dreams, urging them to turn those into strengths.

As the mic gets passed from member to member, it offers a roller-coaster-like thrill.

The repeated rhymes in the hook and the harmonized rap sections are particular highlights.

It’s fair to call it a rap song that could only come from an idol group.

Remember feat. YOUNG JUJU (Prod. Chaki Zulu)Awich

Awich – Remember feat. YOUNG JUJU (Prod. Chaki Zulu)
Remember feat. YOUNG JUJU (Prod. Chaki Zulu)Awich

Highly recommended as a track that will get you in the groove, this song was pre-released from Awich’s 2017 album “8” and is a tropical, danceable tune perfect for summer.

Featuring YOUNG JUJU and produced by Chaki Zulu, it’s a versatile track you can enjoy at the beach, on a drive, or at parties.

With Okinawa, America, and Japan as its themes, the lyrics—about life’s journey and bonds with loved ones—leave a strong impression.

They portray the resolve to support one another through difficult times, and are sure to resonate with listeners.

Howling DiverBLUE ENCOUNT

BLUE ENCOUNT “Howling Diver” Music Video (YouTube Ver.)
Howling DiverBLUE ENCOUNT

If you’re looking for a rock song that’ll get you pumped, we recommend Howling Diver.

The band behind it, BLUE ENCOUNT, is known for their fiery live shows, and they even made headlines for moving many fans to tears at their concerts.

This track is packed with their signature passion, and there’s no doubt it’ll set your heart ablaze the more you listen.

NananananiroPerfume

[Lyric Video] Perfume “Nananananairo”
NananananiroPerfume

This is an interesting track whose music video shows the three members in a natural, unadorned state—quite a departure from Perfume’s usual electro, near-futuristic vibe.

As the MV suggests, the song features Chinese-inspired elements in its spirituality, melodies, and timbre, which leaves a strong impression.

It’s brimming with a different kind of charm from the usual Perfume, and it feels great to sing along—like at karaoke—while reading the lyrics.