[2026] Latest and Noteworthy J-Pop R&B Tracks
When you hear Japanese R&B, what kinds of artists or bands come to mind?
While many people know them through J-pop hits, there have actually been artists since the Showa era who possess genuine R&B skills, with outstanding vocals and melodic sensibilities.
Even now in the 2020s, artists who transcend the boundaries between Japanese and Western music are creating amazing tracks, while staying connected to the latest overseas R&B scene.
In this article, we’ve rounded up must-check new songs to help you get to know the latest Japanese R&B scene in a broad sense.
We hope not only fans of Japanese music but also fans of Western music will give them a listen!
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[2026] Latest and Notable J‑Pop R&B Songs (21–30)
Ms.Sunshinekiki vivi lily
For a calm night drive, you can’t help but crave mellow tracks that gently stay close to your heart.
Released in July 2025 by singer-songwriter kiki vivi lily, this song is a perfect neo-soul number for those moments.
Co-crafted with producer Sweet William, it features a delicate, cinematic beat.
In this piece, the longing to reunite with precious presences that live on in the heart—like one’s former self and irreplaceable memories—is expressed through her sweet, translucent vocals.
Its smooth groove and sophisticated sound will turn the everyday into something special.
It’s a highly recommended track for those who want to fully immerse themselves in a private moment of healing.
RUNWAYTENDRE
TENDRE, a multitalented artist who crafts refined sounds, delivers a track released in April 2025 that captures the refreshing spirit of spring’s arrival.
The lyrics celebrate the exhilaration of leaping into a new season, paired with a propulsive, forward-looking energy.
Combined with the easygoing groove that has been consistent since his debut EP “Red Focus,” the song makes you feel lighter as you listen.
Its selection as the cover of YouTube Music’s “R&B Japan” playlist speaks to the attention it’s receiving.
It’s the perfect BGM for an afternoon drive, windows down, feeling the breeze.
It’s sure to make your everyday just a little more special.
[2026] Latest and Notable J-Pop R&B Songs (31–40)
HeroineMitsunori Aoyama
How about a song like this for a night drive when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood? This track by singer-songwriter Mitsuki Aoyama captures the bittersweet afterglow of a love that’s ended and the strength of reclaiming yourself afterward.
Rooted in cool R&B yet carried by a beat reminiscent of UK garage, it’s comfortably buoyant and conveys a supple resilience that seems to ride even over sorrow.
The sound, showcasing her experience as a DJ, gently sways the listener.
Released ahead of the EP “Heroine / Breathe” in August 2025, it also served as the ending theme for HTB’s “Ichimoni!”.
It’s a perfect song for spending quiet time facing yourself.
NegotiationSeductive Goldfish
Centering hip-hop to present a unique aesthetic, Yoen Kingyo has won acclaim from dedicated music fans.
The song they perform carries a powerful message: “Our souls over quick cash.” Its track blends a 90s rock feel with soulful groove—hip-hop crafted for a sophisticated, grown-up audience.
Released in November 2024, the work was also featured on TV Asahi’s EIGHT-JAM as a noteworthy artist chosen by industry professionals.
When you’re tired of having your value measured by someone else’s yardstick, this song forcefully reminds you that you hold the reins.
It’s a perfect pick for twenty-somethings who want to shine with a selection that stands apart from the crowd.
WowKazuki Hayashi
This is Kazuki Hayashi’s solo debut, where a melodious, sophisticated R&B sound resonates pleasantly.
Released in May 2023 as an advance single from the album “I,” the track paints the sweet moments of romance set against the backdrop of the nighttime city.
Its breezy rhythm and sultry vocals blend beautifully, resulting in a love song that exudes mature allure.
The music video faithfully recreates a classic R&B aesthetic, with dramatic direction that’s a highlight in itself.
It’s a song you’ll want to play on a drive or during a quiet night.
Highly recommended for those who want to feel the sparkle and bittersweetness of love.
EKO EKOm-flo loves ZICO,eill
A stylish number by m-flo, defined by its refined, near-futuristic sound.
This work is a collaboration welcoming ZICO—producer and rapper active in Korea’s hip-hop scene—and eill, a singer-songwriter known for her R&B, as “loves” guests.
Transcending borders and genres, the trio’s distinct personalities intertwine exquisitely to create a high-sense groove.
The recurring, mysterious motif feels like an expression of “resonance” that spans generations.
Released in June 2025, m-flo’s 25th anniversary year, it also drew major attention for the electrifying session showcased in Episode 558 of the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE.
Its cityscape-ready sound is sure to enrich your alone time—and it’s a perfect companion for a night drive.
UNDERCOVER feat. Ayumu ImazuSIRUP
This is a sleek, urban R&B track born from the collaboration between SIRUP and Ayumu Imazu, who are known to be friends offstage as well.
With a modern theme exploring the “public” and “private” faces people carry, the song brilliantly expresses it through the duo’s smooth, intertwining vocals.
Released as a lead single from the album “OWARI DIARY,” due out in September 2025, it also drew attention for being featured in a web commercial for Mizuhashi Hojudo Pharmaceutical.
Why not surrender yourself to its addictive groove?