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

ZEROVaundy

ZERO

Singer-songwriter Vaundy, who made his major debut while still an active art university student, showcases his talent not only in music production but also as a creator.

ZERO, a track pre-released from his second album replica, drew attention for being dropped as a surprise with no prior announcement.

Its rock ensemble, driven by a heavy guitar sound, is thrilling while creating a distinctive sense of floating.

With its cool arrangement that sticks in your ears, it’s a pop tune that’s also great for karaoke.

GRL GVNGXG

GRL GVNG

This song is by XG, a girl group that debuted in 2022, and it’s been attracting worldwide attention, even hitting No.

1 on Billboard’s Hot Trending Songs chart.

The title “GRL GVNG” is read as “Girl Gang,” and it features a heavy beat reminiscent of R&B and hip-hop, with strikingly cool rap.

The bold, confident lyrics are another highlight.

The entire song is in English, so if you’re interested, be sure to dig into the words.

idolYOASOBI

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video

YOASOBI is a musical duo whose members are also active as solo artists, each boasting high popularity in their respective fields.

Their 19th digital-only single, “Idol,” used as the opening theme for the TV anime Oshi no Ko, was produced based on an original short story written by Aka Akasaka, the author of the anime’s source material.

The contrast between the hysteric synth sound and the cute vocals alone is enough to get you hyped.

It’s a fast-paced pop tune with rapidly shifting arrangements and intricate melodies that stick in your ears.

HeroYOASOBI

YOASOBI “The Brave” Official Music Video / TV anime “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” opening theme

YOASOBI is a music duo that has captured global attention, with their major debut track “Racing into the Night” becoming the first song in Japan to surpass 1 billion streams.

Their 20th digital single, “The Brave,” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.” The lyrics, which evoke the anime’s story, stir the heart alongside a complex melody.

It’s a track that draws you into its world, with a grand yet pop-leaning ensemble that lifts your spirits.

Tears-kun, good morning again today!ano

ano ‘Good morning again today, Namida-kun’ Music Video

Singer-songwriter ano, known affectionately as “Ano-chan” for her appearances on variety shows and as the vocalist-guitarist of I’s, has released her sixth major single, the digital-only track “Namida-kun, Kyo mo Ohayō.” The song has been featured in Bandai’s Tamagotchi Uni commercial.

Its lyrics evoke the power of music that seems to blow everything away, offering a sense of hope even amid negativity.

With exhilarating synths and a cute vocal delivery that brightens your mood, it’s a pop tune that gently sits with feelings of loneliness.

4everAo

ao – 4ever (Official Video)

Ao made her major debut with “Tag” in 2021.

In 2022, she was also listed in Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2022,” which highlights next-generation artists, marking her as a young singer brimming with talent.

“4ever” is a dance-pop track that fully showcases her one-of-a-kind musicality, with a stylish, Western pop vibe that’s incredibly appealing.

Its EDM-like four-on-the-floor beat instantly lifts the energy, making it a perfect listen when you want to boost your mood.

You can’t love all of me.A-ko

Ako – Can't Love All of Me: Music Video

Singer-songwriter aco, who is gaining attention for songs that incorporate diverse musical styles like pop, electro, jazz, and new wave.

Released digitally on June 21, 2023, “Atashi no Zenbu wo Aisenai” lingers in your ears with its sprightly beat and airy, translucent whisper vocals.

The lyrics, which evoke a story of being in love while unable to shake negative feelings toward oneself, are likely to resonate with many listeners’ own experiences.

It’s a sentimental number with a dreamy yet ennui-tinged atmosphere that leaves a strong impression.