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

OWARINENE

NENE – OWARI (Official Music Video)

Characterized by a sharp, aggressive sound that shakes up the hip-hop scene.

Released in June 2025, this work comes from NENE, also known as a member of Yurufuwa Gang.

The lyrics—charged with anger toward commercialism and copycat culture, and unwavering pride in hip-hop as an art form—leave a strong impression.

The dark beat crafted by Koshy heightens the tension.

Emotion pours out from the flow, the lyrics, and the sound—every part of it.

protagonistSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER 'Protagonist' MV (Theme song for Fuji TV's 'Mezamashi TV')

An epic yet warm rock number that tells everyone they are the protagonist of their own life.

It’s a track by the rock band SUPER BEAVER—also known for “Rashisa” and “Namae wo Yobu yo”—released as a single in July 2025.

The song was chosen as the 2025 yearly theme for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi TV.

Perfect for the band’s 20th anniversary year, its band sound is enriched with brass and strings, over which vocalist Ryota Shibuya’s powerful voice resonates.

This song affirms everyday life—be sure to listen to it at the start of your day!

Check it out!Gotō Maki feat. Hanamura Sōta (Da-iCE)

Maki Goto feat. Sota Hanamura (Da-iCE) / “Check It Out” Music Video

Just listening to it puts you in a happy mood! It’s a luxurious collaboration by Maki Goto and Sota Hanamura from Da-iCE, released in June 2025.

The lyrics, themed around male-female friendship, and the bursting, addictive sound are incredible! Their expressive vocal performances also help shape the song’s bright, pop world.

Give it a listen when you want to lift your spirits!

TORICOIwatatakanori

Takanori Iwata – TORICO (Official Music Video)

This is a solo work by Takanori Iwata, featuring a pleasing, passionate Latin rhythm.

Released in July 2025, it was chosen as the CM song for JATA’s “More! Overseas” campaign, enhancing the open, carefree mood of summer.

The sound instantly captivates listeners, and the lyrics—framing the push-and-pull of romance—leave a strong impression.

With Iwata’s lustrous vocal performance, it skillfully conveys a mature passion.

It’s perfect not only as BGM for a beachside party, but also for setting the mood on a special night with someone important.

Mr./Ms. (honorific suffix)FRUITS ZIPPER

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER “San”

This is a song that colored the 3rd anniversary of FRUITS ZIPPER’s debut.

Released digitally in June 2025, it’s a mid-tempo J-pop number filled with sun-like warmth and gratitude.

The lyrics, which express everyday happiness in a poppy way, will warm your heart just by reading them, and the bright sound arrangement is soothing.

It’s perfect for when you want to feel gentle or need a little push to move forward!

24HALLEY

[Music Video] HALLEY – 24

An ambitious work by the band HALLEY, titled after vocalist Tehyeon’s age.

Released in June 2025, it features a future-funk sound built on an alternative R&B foundation, culminating in a breathtaking transition into drum and bass in the latter half.

The lyrics tightly capture the raw struggles of being 24 and the uncertainty about the future.

Blending poignancy with power, this track is sure to resonate when you need a gentle push forward or are seeking a fresh musical experience.

Burning LoveTravis Japa

Burning Love

It’s a pop song that makes it feel like that adorable character is bouncing right before your eyes.

This work was produced as the Japanese ending theme for the Disney film “Lilo & Stitch,” scheduled for release in June 2025.

The melody, where Japanese and English rhythmically intertwine, lifts your spirits just by listening and adds a colorful touch to the film’s overall happy worldview.

You can sense the members’ passionate affection for a character they’ve loved since childhood in their vocals.

Give it a listen when you need a boost!