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

Size of the kaijuback number

back number – The Size of the Monster

Back number is a three-piece rock band known for sentimental lyrics and vocals that resonate with younger generations.

Their seventh digital-only single, “Kaijū no Size,” pairs a refreshing, exhilarating melody with a driving shuffle beat.

The lyrics liken the magnitude of one’s feelings for someone to the size of a monster, something many listeners will surely connect to through their own experiences.

It’s a bittersweet yet subtly uplifting track, conveying a message about true feelings that can no longer be expressed.

Nagisaimase

【imase】Nagisa（MV）

Nagisa starts with a classic four-on-the-floor “don, don, don, don,” evoking the charm of old-school dance pop.

Released as a digital single in 2023 by imase, the track is a stylish number that’s especially popular with younger listeners, even landing on YouTube’s trending music list.

It also connects with the city pop revival centered around artists like Tatsuro Yamashita and Taeko Onuki, featuring a subtly nostalgic sound—be sure to listen for that appeal as well.

Utopiaimase

[imase] Utopia (MV)

Singer-songwriter imase has captured massive support from younger generations—especially on TikTok—and is drawing attention on the J-pop scene, with his debut track surpassing 500 million streams.

His digital single Utopia, released on July 7, 2023, was written as the theme song for the animated film SAND LAND.

Its message—that a peaceful everyday life is what truly matters—may help those prone to overthinking loosen up and breathe a little easier.

It’s a positive pop tune, featuring a refreshing ensemble over a lively shuffle beat that feels wonderfully uplifting.

W●RKmillennium parade × Ringo Sheena

ꉈꀧ꒒꒒ꁄꍈꍈꀧ꒦ꉈ ꉣꅔꎡꅔꁕꁄ × Ringo Sheena – W●RK

Millennium Parade is a music unit led by Daiki Tsuneta, a core member of King Gnu.

Their collaboration with Ringo Sheena resulted in “W●RK.” It serves as the opening theme for the anime Hell’s Paradise, and the song portrays the series’ dark worldview.

Another appeal of the track is how it weaves in homages to both artists’ past works.

Pay attention not only to the lyrics but also to the direction of the music video—you’ll likely be thrilled to recognize, “That’s just like that other work!”

0.1smol-74

mol-74「0.1s」MUSIC VIDEO

If you’re looking for a fresh, crisp rock track that feels perfect for summer, this song is for you.

“0.

1s” by mol-74 stands out with its cool, airy guitar sound and understated, low-heat vocals.

The lyrics say, “This moment we’re spending so casually will, when we look back a few years from now, be a precious memory—our youth.” For adults, it may deeply resonate and prompt you to recall your own youthful days, while for younger listeners, it might inspire you to cherish the present.

Yukinikanayuta

[MV] Yukinika / nayuta

Known by the nickname Nayutan and beloved for her soprano range, singer nayuta has won wide popularity.

As the second installment of her three-month consecutive release project, Yukinika weaves a delicate blend of a piano- and strings-featured, dreamlike ensemble with her crystal-clear voice.

Its lyrics, portraying a love that can’t quite find the courage to take the first step, are likely to tighten your chest alongside the richly layered sound.

A mystical ballad, it crafts its own world with a transparent, heartrending melody.

Good fortune comes to the gate that worries.somei

somei / Good Fortune Comes to the Sorrowful Gate – Music Video

Singer-songwriter somei, who spent her childhood surrounded by music and is drawing attention for her down-to-earth lyrics.

The song “Ureu Kado ni wa Fuku Kitaru,” chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime The Masterful Cat Is Depressed Again Today, kicks off with the chorus and a driving ensemble that instantly lifts your spirits.

The lyrics, which feel like they affirm your very existence, seem to give a powerful push toward your dreams and goals.

With a refreshing melody and vocals, it’s a breezy pop tune that gives you courage.