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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Now that we live in an era where anyone can broadcast on the internet and information is overflowing, music trends are emerging differently than before.

These days, it’s completely normal for Vocaloid producers to thrive as singer-songwriters, or for a song posted online to spark widespread popularity.

What’s more, trends—especially among younger generations—are shifting at a tremendous pace.

So in this article, our editorial team, which regularly researches a wide range of music, will carefully select and introduce tracks that are currently hot among young people.

It’s become a must-hear playlist where you won’t want to miss a single song, so be sure to read to the end!

[2026] Popular Songs Among Today’s Youth [Japanese Music] (571–580)

Tiger BoyHOKUTO

HOKUTO – Tiger Boy (Official Music Video)

Tiger BoyHOKUTO

HOKUTO’s track “Tiger Boy,” notable for its funky band sound, is the lead song from the EP “LOVE PARADOX, LOVE MYSELF,” released in July 2025.

Written and composed by singer-songwriter Noboshi, the piece humorously portrays the hectic daily life of a pop star.

The lyrics are peppered with words that reflect HOKUTO’s own image, sure to make fans grin.

It’s a cool, slightly sexy track packed with all kinds of appeal.

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protagonistLEX

LEX – Protagonist (Music Video)

protagonistLEX

LEX’s single “Shujinko,” produced by VLOT, is a long-awaited release arriving about eight months since his last.

Its greatest appeal lies in the mellow, gentle vocals and the unwavering declaration that he is the protagonist of his own story.

The globe-spanning, grand lyrics resonate powerfully in both ears and heart.

You can’t help but admire that confidence.

It’s a track that will push you forward if you want to believe in your potential and aim higher.

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Tell Me Tell Me ☆PiKi

Tell Me Tell Me ☆

Tell Me Tell Me ☆PiKi

This PiKi track is packed with that sweet-and-sour feeling of wanting to know how your crush really feels.

Released as a single in July 2025, it was chosen as the theme song for a segment on “Oha Suta.” Riding a catchy sound woven from rhythmic beats and futuristic synthesizers, the lyrics express the pure flutter of a protagonist whose mind is completely occupied by the one they like.

The harmony blending Karen Matsumoto’s clear, translucent voice with Haruka Sakuraba’s warm tone is just wonderful.

It’s perfect for when you want to savor the heart-pounding excitement of a love that’s just beginning!

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Like the beginningRen

[PLANJ] ORIGINAL: 'Like the Beginning' – REN

Like the beginningRen

This is a solo ballad written by REN of the global boy group JO1.

Set for release in July 2025, it’s his fourth solo track.

With a delicate vocal delivery, it captures the unease toward kindness that’s become routine and the premonition of a relationship’s end.

You can clearly feel the protagonist’s poignant resolve in lines like, “This way will be better for both of us.” It’s a song that will sink deep into your heart when you’re struggling with a cherished relationship or quietly reflecting on a breakup at night.

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I want to become a ghost.Yuika

I Want to Become a Ghost / “Yuika” [MV]

I want to become a ghost.Yuika

Sung over a breezy sound, it’s a devoted—if a little heavy—love that wishes to become the ghost of the one they adore.

Yuika, whose realistic emotional expression resonates with many, delivers complex feelings of love with a clear, translucent voice.

Lyrics that express the ache of wanting to be close but unable to touch through unique metaphors are sure to make many listeners’ hearts skip a beat.

Released in July 2025, this track was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Wataru-kun no XX ga Hōkai Sunzen.” If straight love songs leave you wanting more, this might fit perfectly with that frustrating, bittersweet feeling.

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Sangenjaya Storiesyangusukinii

Young Skinny – Sangenjaya Story [Official Music Video]

Sangenjaya Storiesyangusukinii

A warm love song by Young Skinny that vividly brings the real scenery of Sangenjaya to mind.

It portrays a stubborn, headstrong man’s clumsy yet straightforward love for his partner, and its true-to-life lyrics will capture listeners’ hearts.

Released in July 2025, this piece is sure to make anyone who cherishes the little everyday moments with their loved one think, “I know exactly how that feels!” Why not listen to it together with someone special and lose yourselves in your own story?

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[2026] Popular Songs Among Today’s Youth [Japanese Music] (581–590)

rainy sceneryrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “The Shape of Rain” / Rokudenashi – The Shape of Rain [Official Music Video]

rainy sceneryrokudenashi

A striking track by Rokudenashi, built around a structure that shifts from gentle piano lines into a danceable sound.

Featured on the EP “Hikage,” released in July 2025, the song was written and composed by DUSTCELL’s Misumi.

Carrying pain in the heart yet moving forward with someone precious, the theme meshes perfectly with vocalist Ninzin’s emotional delivery.

It’s a song that will quietly stay by your side when you’re feeling sentimental.

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