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

On The GroundYurufuwa Gang

Yurufuwa Gang - On The Ground (Official Music Video)

Yurufuwa Gang is a hip-hop unit formed by rappers Ryugo Ishida and NENE, joined by producer and trackmaker Automatic.

“On the ground,” a lead single from their fourth album JOURNEY, is a track whose oriental-tinged atmosphere creates an addictive pull.

The lyrics conjure scenes of traveling through foreign lands, evoking an extraordinary feeling that’s hard to imagine in everyday life.

It’s a pop tune with a one-of-a-kind sound that delivers a powerful impact and draws you into its world.

Mr./Ms. SeironRen

Ren – Mr. Seiron (Music Video)

If you’re feeling irritated or frustrated with relationships or work right now, I highly recommend the song “Seiron-san.” Created by singer-songwriter Ren—who has been active mainly on social media and exploded in popularity especially among younger generations—this track was made at the end of his teens and is a number that listeners of any age can surely relate to.

Even when we understand “the right thing to do” in our heads, it’s often hard to accept it, isn’t it? Ren speaks straight to that hazy, conflicted feeling and expresses it perfectly on our behalf.

boys and girlsIori Kanzaki

Boys and Girls / Iori Kanzaki

Kanzaki Iori is active as a Vocaloid producer, singer, music producer, and novelist.

This song, “Shounen Shoujo” (Boys and Girls), is his first release since going independent, and its lyrics feel like they capture the emotions of that new beginning.

When you start something new and take your first steps toward a dream, a wall inevitably appears in your path.

I can’t help but feel that this song is what you need to keep going without letting your spirit break.

All of Kanzaki Iori’s works give me the impression of a “cry from the heart,” and this track is no exception—one I recommend listening to before you bottle up your emotions.

See youHumbreaders

Humbreaders “Matane (See You)” Music Video | Anime “BORUTO: NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS” Ending Theme

“Mata ne,” released in 2023 by the Osaka-born rock band Humbreaders, was written as the ending theme for the anime BORUTO: NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS.

Its guitar-driven pop-rock sound has a charming, nostalgic feel.

The music video, crafted with an ’80s aesthetic, amplifies that sense of nostalgia.

The lyrics, which sing about cherished companions and friends, really hit you in the heart as you listen.

mixMarcy

Mix

Marcy is a three-piece rock band that made their major debut in 2022 and has been growing in popularity not only in Japan but across Asia.

Their 15th digital-only single, “Mix,” was featured as the web commercial song for the Google Pixel 7a.

Its light and exhilarating ensemble builds excitement for the hot season.

With cute, straightforward lyrics addressed to a partner that many will relate to, it’s a pop tune perfect for energizing the summer.

To Your TownYoung Skinny

Young Skinny – To Your Town [Official Music Video]

This is a song by Young Skinny that portrays a bittersweet youth longing to get closer to a loved one.

It was written as the opening theme for ABEMA’s dating show “Koisuru ♥ Shuumatsu Homestay 2023 Natsu” (Falling in Love: Weekend Homestay 2023 Summer).

The light sounds and vocals layered over a bouncing rhythm convey a fresh, exhilarating feeling of facing summer head-on.

Because it depicts everyday moments with a loved one through a voice that carries a smile, the song vividly evokes rising emotions and a positive sense of romance.

moon bathingYorushika

Moonbath

Yorushika is a two-member rock band consisting of composer n-buna and vocalist suis.

Their 16th digital-only single, “Gekkouyoku” (“Moonlight Bath”), was written as the theme song for the animated film Kaina of the Great Snow Sea: Star Sage.

True to Yorushika’s style, the literary lyrics and gentle vocals draw you in alongside a dramatic ensemble.

Featuring acoustic guitar, the arrangement creates delicacy and depth, resulting in a somewhat mystical track.