[2026] Popular Songs Among Today’s Youth [J-Pop]

Charonrokudenashi

Charon

Released in October 2025, this work by the music project Rokudenashi is themed around Charon, the ferryman of the underworld from Greek mythology.

Selected as the opening theme for the drama “Is It a Crime to Kill the One Who Took My Daughter’s Life?”, the song was written, composed, and arranged by Nayutan Seijin, with Ninjin delivering a powerful vocal performance that conveys the will to move forward despite carrying wounds.

It’s a track that will resonate with anyone standing at a turning point in life.

Promise with the SkyHatsuboshi Gakuen

Hatsuboshi Academy “A Promise with the Sky” Official Music Video (HATSUBOSHI GAKUEN – A Tiny Brave Promise)

A solo track by China Kuramoto from the mobile game “Gakuen Idolmaster” was released for streaming in October 2025.

The lyrics are by Shoko Omori, and the composition and arrangement are by Evan Call—known for his work on Violet Evergarden and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End—featuring an orchestral-style arrangement with strings and brass.

The lyrics depict a resolve toward dreams nurtured through school life, conveying the protagonist’s feelings as she grows as an idol.

It’s a supportive anthem that captures a fleeting moment of youth, especially for those about to take a step toward their dreams and goals.

roarTomonari Sora

Roar – HOKO

Released in October 2025, Sora Tomonari’s “Roar” was selected as the ending theme for the sixth season of the NHK General TV anime Kingdom.

Characterized by its heavy, powerful sound, it makes you feel as if you’re steadily pressing forward, step by step.

The lyrics, themed around the clash of convictions, vividly evoke the heat of the battlefield.

It’s a track I especially recommend to anyone looking to fire themselves up.

The wintry wind does not cry.Sakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 “The Cold Wind Doesn’t Cry” Music Video

This work, included on Sakurazaka46’s 13th single “Unhappy birthday Syntax,” is a song performed by the BACKS members.

It was released in October 2025.

The motif is the chilly winds of autumn, and the resolve embedded in the title—“I won’t cry”—conveys a strength that strives to overcome pent-up frustration and loneliness.

Its heartrending melody and cool, airy sound really stir the emotions.

It’s a dramatic idol song perfect for the nip in the air during the colder season.

First kissrikon densetsu

Divorce Legend – First Kiss (Official Music Video)

Released for streaming in October 2025, this work is a newly written song created as the TV commercial track for Honda’s VEZEL e:HEV RS.

Its appeal lies in a driving feel like a tailwind that evokes bittersweet memories, and the lyrics revolve around the theme of unwavering feelings for a precious person, even as the world keeps flowing by.

The melody line, carrying raw emotion, and the groovy sound are irresistible.

It’s also perfect for moments when you want to look back on the time spent with your partner.

Disco BabyTravis Japan

Travis Japan – ‘Disco Baby’ Music Video

This is a Travis Japan track that channels 1970s disco culture into contemporary J-pop.

It’s a dance number that feels like it turns the exhilaration of moving under a glittering mirror ball directly into sound.

The lyrics depict the liberating moment of shedding your shyness and stepping onto the floor, conveying an almost overwhelming urge to live this moment to the fullest.

It’s the perfect party tune for getting hyped with friends.

Venus beltaimyon

Aimyon – Venus Belt [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A song by Aimyon inspired by the faint pink band of light that appears on the opposite side of the sky just before sunrise and just after sunset.

Released in October 2025, it poignantly sings of lingering traces of past memories and emotions.

Its warm band sound delicately captures a wavering state of mind.

If you want to empathize with a bittersweet love, give it a listen—it’s sure to slip gently into your heart.