Latest J-Pop Releases [June 2025]

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.

SchoellerOoochie Koochie

Ooochie Koochie 'Shawler' Music Video

This is a work by Ooochie Koochie, a unit formed by two giants of the Japanese music scene, Tamio Okuda and Koji Kikkawa.

It’s a rock number that passionately sings about their hometown, Hiroshima, entirely in the Hiroshima dialect.

The two artists’ distinct styles blend brilliantly, creating an energetic sound that’s seriously cool.

The music video leverages Sony’s proprietary 3DCG generation technology to vividly recreate Hiroshima’s scenery, drawing you in with an atmosphere that feels like you’re really there.

It’s perfect for people who love Hiroshima or anyone looking to be energized by powerful music.

ZenSHOW-GO

SHOW-GO – Zen (Beatbox)

It’s a piece that leaves me freshly amazed every time I listen—who knew the human voice alone could express so much? Created by SHOW-GO, who has pursued a unique sonic world in projects like the “Beatbox Only” series and reached the top at the Grand Boost Championship in 2017, this track was released in June 2025.

A powerful beat, a bassline that thumps deep in your gut, and an alternative timbre meld together.

As with his previous works, this one conveys his sincere attitude toward sound.

In this roughly two-and-a-half-minute span where stillness and dynamism coexist, it feels like a Zen experience through sound.

It’s a track I hope you’ll lend an ear to when, amidst busy days, you want to pause and face yourself.

Wish WindStrawberry Prince

[MV] Negai-kaze / Strawberry Prince Music Video

It’s a work that delivers gratitude to fans and hope for the future like a gentle breeze.

Released in June 2025 to celebrate the 9th anniversary of Strawberry Prince, the song was written and composed by member Root.

Its warm arrangement and emotional melody draw you right in.

The lyrics, which convey directly the time the group and listeners have shared and their unwavering feelings for the future, are truly moving.

It’s perfect not only for fans but also for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone important to you!

I can't stop this sadnessTsubaki Factory

Tsubaki Factory “Sorrow Won’t Stop” Promotion Edit

This emotionally rich cover song captures the ache of heartbreak.

Tsubaki Factory brings fresh expression to one of Anri’s finest gems.

Preserving the original’s poignant sorrow, each member’s voice delicately portrays the helplessness of unrequited love.

The track is included on the single “My Days for You / Kanashimi ga Tomaranai,” released in June 2025.

It also serves as Shiori Yagi’s graduation single and reached No.

2 on the Oricon Daily chart.

How about listening on a night when you want something to keep you company in your melancholy?

play deadSakurazaka46

play dead

This is the first song that fourth-generation members of Sakurazaka46 participated in.

It introspectively portrays the faintness of one’s presence and will, expressing emotional conflict in a straightforward way.

The lyrics were written by Yasushi Akimoto, with composition and arrangement by Onji and TomoLow.

Its somewhat wistful melodic line, combined with the layering of the members’ voices, weaves dynamics and tension, making it highly engaging to listen to.

The track was released for streaming in June 2025 and is also included on the single “Make or Break,” released the same month.

It will likely resonate deeply with those who are in the process of searching for themselves.

Next Is The Best!Seikima-II

Seikima-II “Next Is The Best!” Official Music Video #SeikimaII

The heavy riffs and piercing vocals make you clench your fist without even thinking! This track by Seikima-II is a blast of heavy metal powered by a seven-string guitar, delivering an aggressive sound, and lyrics themed around confidence and challenge that give listeners a powerful push forward.

Demon Kakka’s commanding vocals and the band’s cohesion feel like a declaration of “This is Seikima-II!” The piece was released in June 2025.

If you’re looking for the courage to face difficulties, by the time it ends your spirit will surely be stirred.