Latest Japanese music releases [February 2025]

But no loveRainy。

Rainy. “But No Love” MV

Rainy.

delivers a powerful dance number that captures the feelings of a sixteen-year-old in their entirety.

Beneath its pop, up-tempo sound, the song weaves in age-specific worries and inner conflicts, as well as the push-and-pull of young love, vividly expressing emotions that feel true to life for today’s youth.

The wavering heart at the boundary between childhood and adulthood resonates deeply alongside a light, deftly crafted sound that blends the essences of Heisei and Reiwa-era J-pop.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Detective Conan airing from January 2025, this marks the third tie-in with the series.

Now in the third year since debut, Rainy.

’s increasingly mature vocals and dance performance are not to be missed, and are sure to strike a chord with anyone in the thick of their youth.

InductionRaul

Raul ‘Induction’ Music Video

It’s a highly original dance tune.

Created by Raul, it’s included on Snow Man’s album “THE BEST 2020 – 2025,” released in January 2025.

With profound themes exploring self-awareness, relationships with others, and the nature of expression in modern society, its dark, tension-filled sound world makes a powerful impact on listeners.

It’s a track that resonates when you want to face yourself or set your heart free.

Morning timeRen Meguro

Ren Meguro “Morning Time” Music Video

A warm medium-tempo ballad that gently embraces the emotional shift that begins at a sleepless dawn.

It’s included on Snow Man’s album “THE BEST 2020 – 2025,” released in January 2025.

The gentle soundscape and Meguro’s soft vocals accompany anyone greeting the morning, warming the heart as you listen.

The music video features scenes of brewing coffee by the window and relaxing at home, carefully depicting the preciousness of the morning hours.

The more you listen, the more it grows on you—a truly wonderful song!

If only I could just come to hate you.Ryohei Ab

Ryohei Abe “If only I could just come to hate you.” Music Video

A pop song that tugs at the heart with the ache of being unable to confess your feelings even while carrying love inside.

Featured on the album “THE BEST 2020 – 2025,” releasing in January 2025, this track pairs warm, rich production with emotional lyrics that gently support anyone struggling with love.

Ryohei Abe’s delicate vocals and expressive delivery resonate deeply with those holding on to fragile feelings.

The song carefully portrays the frustration of being unable to let go of your emotions while agonizing over the distance between you and the one you like.

If you haven’t been able to tell that special someone how you feel, you’ll surely relate.

I — Because I can’t stopRyota Miyadate

Ryota Miyadate ‘I・Datte Tomaranai’ Music Video

A passionate love song wrapped in the atmosphere of Showa-era kayōkyoku.

Sung powerfully by Ryota Miyadate of Snow Man, this piece portrays the poignant feelings of a man torn between reason and instinct.

Its classic J-pop melody and luxurious sound exuding mature allure will draw you in.

Released in January 2025 as part of Snow Man’s album THE BEST 2020-2025, this is a pop song that resonates with adults struggling with love.

Toward Where the Sound RingsShota Watanabe

Shota Watanabe “Oto no Naru Hō e” Music Video

It’s a pop number packed with positive messages.

Sung by Shota Watanabe of Snow Man, it generated buzz as his solo track included on Snow Man’s best-of album THE BEST 2020 – 2025, released in January 2025.

The lyrics, which depict shifting emotions as the days of the week pass, are particularly striking.

The way they project a determination to keep moving forward in one’s own way—despite steps backward and forward—really resonates.

The pairing of the refreshing melody with his expansive vocals is also superb.

It’s a song that gives you a gentle push when you’re feeling blue or uncertain.

BarrierSixTONES

SixTONES – Barrier [YouTube ver.]

A fusion rock track that could be called the essence of SixTONES, expressing an unwavering resolve to protect a loved one with a powerful melody and danceable band sound.

The protagonist’s overflowing devotion is deftly portrayed, making it a perfect fit as the theme song for the film “Ojō to Banken-kun.” Set for release in March 2025, the single will be available in three formats: Limited Edition, Regular Edition, and “M TV Unplugged” Edition.

The coupling tracks include richly expressive new songs, from addictive EDM to chill R&B.

It’s a song that will resonate when you want to deepen a bond with someone special or reaffirm your own feelings.