[Latest/Trending] A roundup of popular Japanese songs among teens and people in their 20s

high tensionOurin

Ourin - OHRIN - “High Tension” Music Video

Singer Ourin, who began her career as a member of the Aomori-based local idol group Ringo Musume and has also gained popularity on variety shows.

Her double A-side debut single “High Tension,” released alongside “Play The Game,” is a track that spotlights Ourin’s vocal prowess and an urban sound.

The lyrics, which portray a love that can’t be honestly expressed, strike a chord when paired with her translucent voice.

With its airy, floating melody, this pop tune feels pleasant and showcases a new side of Ourin’s charm.

Grapefruit MoonTOMOO

TOMOO – Grapefruit Moon (Official Audio)

If you’re looking for chill tracks, I also recommend “Grapefruit Moon.” It’s a song by singer-songwriter TOMOO and serves as the lead single from her first major album, “TWO MOON.” The track expresses that uniquely adult sense of emotional dryness.

What stands out is how it captures feelings everyone carries, conveyed clearly through both words and sound.

By the way, “grapefruit moon” refers to a large, orange-colored moon hanging low in the sky.

To You at DawnTOMOO

TOMOO – To You at Dawn [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Singer-songwriter TOMOO, who says composing a reply to a letter from a friend inspired her to pursue music, has released her fifth digital-only single, Dawn for You, her first song written for a film.

It was chosen as the theme song for the movie Insomniacs After School.

The lyrics, which depict a bond with someone precious, resonate deeply alongside her soulful vocals.

It’s a richly layered track with an evocative sense of melancholy and a strikingly pop-tinged melody.

LifestyleWurtS

WurtS – Lifestyle (Official Audio)

A snapshot of everyday life woven by WurtS, a solo artist born in the 21st century.

Featured on his second album Stay Well, released in October 2024, this track paints a picture of how he spends Sundays with friends and his feelings toward making music.

Centered on dance music while crossing genres like rock and hip-hop, it showcases a unique pop sound.

Its rhythmic beats and catchy melodies stick in your head.

The song captures an honest, down-to-earth portrait of music-loving youth.

Recommended for anyone who cherishes those casual moments spent with friends.

RaiseChilli Beans.

Chilli Beans. – Raise [TV animation “ONE PIECE” Ending Theme Song]

Formed by students from the music school VOICE, which has produced numerous artists, Chilli Beans.

is a three-piece rock band known for lyrics that portray the authentic psychology of women.

Their song “Raise,” included on their 4th EP “for you,” was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime ONE PIECE.

The lyrics, which evoke an image of moving forward while holding up one’s ideals, resonate with the anime’s story and give courage to anyone striving hard.

With a laid-back shuffle beat and a stylish ensemble that leaves a strong impression, it’s a cool number with real impact.

spiralLONGMAN

LONGMAN 'Spiral' Music Video (TV Anime 'Mushoku Tensei II: Jobless Reincarnation' Opening Theme)

LONGMAN is a three-piece band with male-and-female twin vocals that made their major-label debut in 2019.

They’ve provided numerous anime theme and tie-in songs, and their track “spiral” is used as the opening theme for the anime Mushoku Tensei II: Jobless Reincarnation.

Stories about once having a dream that ultimately didn’t come true are everywhere.

This song resonates like a declaration from one’s present, grown-up self to their past self: the dream didn’t come true, but here’s how I’ll live and move forward from now on.

DAY feat. PUNPEENulbarich

Nulbarich – DAY feat. PUNPEE (Official Music Video)

In Nulbarich’s track “DAY,” by the band centered around JQ, rapper and producer PUNPEE appears as a featured guest.

The song exudes Nulbarich’s signature urban, sophisticated vibe throughout, layered with PUNPEE’s sharp, precise rap.

Meanwhile, in the parts sung by JQ, the bouncy, rhythmic melodic lines stand out.

The vocal interplay between the two artists is well-balanced, resulting in a track that’s extremely easy on the ears.