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

MissingNaniwa Danshi

Naniwa Danshi – Missing [Official Music Video] YouTube ver.

Since their debut single “First Love LOVE” became a smash hit, Naniwa Danshi’s unstoppable momentum hasn’t slowed down.

“Missing” is a song that shows a different side of Naniwa Danshi.

It’s used as the theme song for the drama “Knockin’ on Locked Door,” starring Hokuto Matsumura from SixTONES and Daigo Nishihata from Naniwa Danshi in double lead roles.

Having both the drama and its theme song handled by Johnny’s talents is a real treat for Johnny’s fans.

This track is a mature mid-tempo number that suppresses the group’s usual playful energy, and its mysterious, drama-inspired lyrics are a definite plus!

With cranberry jam on topNishina

nishina – Pour Cranberry Jam [Official Video]

Nishina has been relentlessly active, with solo hall shows at Zepp Tokyo and in Tokyo and Osaka.

This track, “Pour Cranberry Jam on It,” is one that pierces the hearts of her listeners.

Cranberries—symbolic of a mix of frustration and anger—are brilliantly used as a metaphor to say, “Happiness isn’t something that simple.” The blunt, no-frills first verse and the short, sporadic guitar solos offer plenty of highlights.

If you haven’t heard of Nishina yet, this is a song you should definitely check out.

sugar spotNishina

nishina – Sugar Spot [Official Video]

Singer-songwriter Nishina, who began her full-scale music career after attending an artist development course hosted by a record label.

Her track “Sugar Spot,” digitally released on October 25, 2023, was selected as the ending theme for the NHK anime Dog Signal.

Its lyrics, which suggest that even hardships will eventually work in your favor, may lift the spirits of anyone weighed down by everyday worries.

With an upbeat, pleasant rhythm, it’s a number that puts you in a positive mood.

ilyMaruri

Maruri - ily [Music Video]

Maruri, who made her solo and major-label debut in 2022, created the song “ily” under the production of singer-songwriter MINMI.

It’s a summery love song that candidly expresses the desire to be with the one you love.

It also seems perfect for creating a romantic atmosphere.

In addition, the rap part in the middle beautifully conveys the overflow of emotions.

EnjoyMei-chan

Enjoy / Mei-chan

Mei-chan, a singer also known as a member of the YouTuber group “Niku Chomolungma.” He says his name comes from the fact that My Neighbor Totoro happened to be on TV when he was trying to come up with an artist name.

This song is used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Mezamashi 8.” Since it’s a song written by Yujin Kitagawa of Yuzu, that’s another highlight.

Mei-chan is an exceptionally skilled vocalist, and his resonant voice brightens the overall tone of the track.

Flowing voiceMei-chan

Flowing Voice / Mei-chan

Meichan is a singer who made his major debut in 2017 and is also active as a Vocaloid producer and YouTuber.

His digital-only single “Ryūsei,” released on August 23, 2023, was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Our School Broadcast.” The lyrics, which evoke a summer romance, pair with a brisk, exhilarating ensemble to lift your spirits.

It’s an upbeat track with a soft yet resolute vocal tone that leaves a strong impression—highly recommended for karaoke, too.

Encoresasanomarie

Sasanomaly (Sasanomarii) “Encore” MV

Singer-songwriter Sasanomaly, who began making music as a Vocaloid producer under the name Nekobolo and made his major debut in 2016.

His 13th digital-only single, “Encore,” chosen as the theme song for the animated short iichiko story ep.

3: The Shapes and Whereabouts of Three Sounds, features a strikingly deep ensemble built around piano and strings.

Its lyrics, which draw attention to the important things we tend to overlook in everyday life, will likely prompt many listeners to reflect on themselves and take a fresh look around.

A heartwarming number with a pleasantly floating melody.