Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2025]

rain, wind, sky, rainbowLeo Ieiri

rain, wind, sky, rainbow

This is a work whose emotional vocals resonate with the heart.

Leo Ieiri’s “Ame Kaze Sora Niji” was released in January 2025 as the TV commercial song for Boat Race 2025.

The lyrics are striking, contrasting “rain and wind,” which symbolize harsh days, with the “rainbow,” a symbol of hope.

They gently speak to the importance of believing in your inner strength.

It’s a song I especially recommend to those struggling with worries or looking to take a new step forward.

Recipe for HappinessHirai Dai

Recipe for Happiness

This song captivates with its heartwarming lyrics and gentle melody.

Chosen as the ending theme for season 2 of the TV anime “The Apothecary Diaries,” it was released for streaming to coincide with the broadcast starting in January 2025.

Set against an acoustic sound, the track sings of growth in human relationships and staying positive.

Dai Hirai’s tender vocals carefully convey the emotions of the characters.

When you’re troubled by love or friendship, it’s sure to be a song that stays close to your heart.

A hundred flowers in full bloomLila Ikuta

Lilas Ikuta “Profusion of a Hundred Flowers” Official Music Video

A powerful, heartfelt song by Rira Ikuta that sings of the hope found beyond hardship.

Released in January 2025 as the opening theme for the second season of the anime The Apothecary Diaries, it beautifully captures the inner world of the protagonist, Maomao, living in a resplendent yet intrigue-filled harem.

The dramatic progression, combined with Ikuta’s characteristically clear, translucent vocals, deepens immersion in the story.

It’s a work that gives a gentle push to anyone feeling lost in life.

SWIPE!Harusaruhibi

Harusaruhi #55 “SWIPE!” [Original MV]

A bold new work from Harusaruhi, whose shape-shifting vocals captivate listeners.

Released in January 2025, it serves as the lead single for the album “RULE THE WORLD,” which dropped in February of the same year.

Riding a sound that fuses rap and punk-hop, it delivers a message laced with satire about modern society.

Many will surely relate to lyrics that sharply capture the emotions of today’s youth.

An energetic track that feels like it’s on your side!

MOGURA -Barefoot-Prajna (wisdom)

MOGURA -Barefoot-

A bittersweet, hard-edged track that reflects the harsh realities of the city.

Released digitally on January 10, 2025, the song drew attention as the tie-in for the ABEMA original drama “Metropolitan Police Department Narcotics Control Division MOGURA.” The rap woven by Hannya and the others balances rawness with lyricism, while the sound carries a somewhat inorganic atmosphere.

Its real lyrics, focused on society’s darker side, are sure to resonate deeply.

When you want to confront contradictions and inner conflict, this might be the song for you.

sonetACIDMAN

ACIDMAN – sonet Music Video (WOWOW “W Series Drama: Golden Kamuy — Hokkaido Tattooed Prisoner Competition Arc” Final Episode Ending Theme)

ACIDMAN has delivered a song that draws you into the world of rock ballads.

Its grand, expansive melody evokes Hokkaido’s great outdoors and really seeps into the heart.

Centered on the theme of the butterfly effect, it sings of hope and anxiety for the future, and the importance of living true to yourself.

The track will be released as a CD single in January 2025 and has also been chosen as the theme song for the drama Golden Kamuy.

I recommend listening to it while taking in Hokkaido’s beautiful scenery—it’s sure to soothe your soul.

to cry innocently; to weep with a childlike airAKASAKI

[AKASAKI] Adokenaku / Innocently Crying (Lyric Video)

This new song by singer-songwriter AKASAKI is infused with a strong desire to protect someone who sheds pure tears.

It portrays complex emotions where unwavering love for the other person intersects with the bittersweet fear that those feelings may not be returned.

Released digitally in January 2025, it drew attention as it was selected as Kiss FM KOBE’s recommended Japanese track of the month.

AKASAKI debuted in April 2024 and has since released singles including “Hikikomori” and “Bunny Girl.” This track is recommended for anyone who has experienced parting with someone important or wants to empathize with the feeling of caring deeply for another.